Roast Beef Sliders
Roast Beef Sliders are little bites of juicy, tender roast beef tucked into soft, fluffy mini buns. They’re perfect for whenever you want something satisfying but still easy to munch…
Tip: save now, cook later.Roast Beef Sliders are little bites of juicy, tender roast beef tucked into soft, fluffy mini buns. They’re perfect for whenever you want something satisfying but still easy to munch on. The mix of warm roast beef, maybe a little melted cheese, and a bit of tangy sauce makes these sliders a real crowd-pleaser.
I always love making these when friends or family come over because they’re so simple to put together but taste like you spent hours cooking. One tip I’ve picked up is to slice the beef thin and warm it up just right so the sliders stay juicy and flavorful without drying out. It’s those little details that make all the difference.
These sliders are great for game day, casual dinners, or even packed lunches. I like to serve them with some crunchy pickles and a side of chips or a light salad. They’re the kind of treat that everyone asks for again, and I never get tired of making them!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Roast Beef: Thin slices work best for easy layering and quick warming. If you don’t have roast beef, you can use leftover steak or deli roast beef. Just make sure it’s tender and warm for the best slider experience.
Slider Buns: Soft dinner rolls or brioche buns add fluffiness that balances the meat. If you want a healthier option, try whole wheat buns or sandwich thins.
Cheese: Provolone and Swiss melt nicely and add a mild flavor that won’t overpower the beef. Cheddar or mozzarella also work well if you prefer sharper or creamier textures.
Onions & Herbs: Caramelized onions bring sweetness and depth. Fresh rosemary adds an earthy note, but you can swap it for thyme or skip herbs if needed.
Butter & Olive Oil: Butter gives a golden shine to the buns and a rich taste, while olive oil helps with soft onion cooking. You can use all butter or all oil based on your preference.
How Do You Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions for These Sliders?
Caramelized onions add a soft sweetness that pairs beautifully with roast beef. Here’s how to make them right:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add thinly sliced onions and stir to coat.
- Cook slowly for 8-10 minutes, stirring often to prevent burning.
- Season with garlic powder, rosemary, salt, and pepper as they soften.
- Keep cooking until onions turn golden brown and very soft.
Taking your time here makes a big difference! Avoid high heat to prevent burnt onions, and stir regularly so they cook evenly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish or sheet pan – perfect for holding sliders together while baking and warming everything evenly.
- Skillet – great for sautéing onions with garlic and herbs until they’re soft and flavorful.
- Basting brush – helps you spread melted butter over the buns for a golden, tasty finish.
- Sharp knife – for slicing buns cleanly without squishing them.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap roast beef with thinly sliced turkey or ham for a lighter or different deli meat option.
- Change the cheese to cheddar or pepper jack for a sharper or spicier flavor twist.
- Add sautéed mushrooms along with onions to deepen the savory taste and add texture.
- Spread horseradish sauce or Dijon mustard for a spicy kick that cuts through the richness.
How to Make Roast Beef Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sliders:
- 12 slider buns or small dinner rolls
- 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef (preferably cooked and warm)
- 6 slices provolone or Swiss cheese (cut in halves)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried rosemary or fresh chopped rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Horseradish sauce or mayonnaise for spreading
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of baking. Sautéing the onions and assembling the sliders are quick and easy steps, with a total cook and warm-up time of about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sprinkle in the garlic powder, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook the onions, stirring often, for about 8-10 minutes until they are soft and caramelized. This adds a delicious sweetness to your sliders.
2. Assembling the Sliders:
Cut the slider buns in half horizontally and arrange the bottom halves on a baking dish or sheet pan. Evenly spread the caramelized onions over the buns, then layer on the warm roast beef slices. Top the beef with the halved cheese slices.
3. Baking and Serving:
Place the top halves of the buns on the sliders and lightly brush the tops with melted butter. Cover the sliders loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the sliders heat through. Then remove the foil and bake for another 2-3 minutes to get a golden top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. For extra flavor, spread horseradish sauce or mayonnaise on the buns before assembling if you like.
Enjoy your warm and tasty roast beef sliders!
Can I Use Frozen Roast Beef for These Sliders?
Yes, you can use frozen roast beef, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before preparing. Thinly slice and warm the beef gently to keep it juicy and tender for the best results.
Can I Make Roast Beef Sliders Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the caramelized onions and assemble the sliders a few hours ahead. Keep them covered in the fridge and bake just before serving to enjoy warm, melty sliders.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven wrapped loosely with foil to maintain moisture and melt the cheese again.
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese or Buns?
Definitely! Cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese are great alternatives. For buns, brioche or whole wheat slider rolls work well if you want to switch things up or choose a healthier option.