When game day arrives or you’re hosting a casual get-together, these Velveeta Cheeseburger Sliders are guaranteed to steal the show. The combination of juicy beef patties and creamy, melty Velveeta cheese creates an irresistible bite that captures everything we love about classic cheeseburgers in a fun, miniature form.
I developed this recipe after countless family gatherings where everyone wanted something substantial but easy to eat while socializing. The rich, velvety cheese sauce hugs every bite of seasoned beef, creating that perfect comfort food experience that both kids and adults crave.
Why You’ll Love This
- Perfect party food that’s easy to eat with one hand while socializing
- The creamy Velveeta cheese creates an unmatched melt that coats every bite
- Prep and assembly can be done ahead of time for stress-free entertaining
- Customizable with your favorite burger toppings and condiments
- Makes great leftovers that reheat beautifully for lunch the next day
Ingredients
- 16 oz Velveeta cheese, cut into ½-inch cubes
- 1 can diced tomatoes and green chilies (10 oz)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 lb ground breakfast sausage
- 12 slider buns
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1-2 tbsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. These loaded sliders are about to become your new favorite comfort food!
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground breakfast sausage. Cook, breaking it up as you go, until it's nicely browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
- Turn the heat down to low and add the cubed Velveeta and the entire can of diced tomatoes and green chilies to the sausage. Stir frequently until the cheese is completely melted and smooth, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream until well combined.
- Arrange the slider buns in a baking dish, removing the tops and setting them aside for now. You want just the bottom halves sitting in the dish, ready to be loaded up.
- Pour the hot cheese and sausage mixture generously over the bottom buns, making sure each one gets plenty of that delicious, gooey goodness. Replace the top halves of the buns.
- Brush the melted butter over the tops of all the sliders, then sprinkle with garlic powder for extra flavor. This creates a golden, garlicky crust that's absolutely irresistible.
- Pop them in the oven for 5-10 minutes until the tops are golden and the cheese is bubbly. Serve immediately while hot – and definitely provide knives and forks because these beauties are loaded!
Tips & Variations
- For a spicy kick, mix 1-2 tablespoons of diced jalapeños into the meat mixture or add them as a topping
- Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option, but add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to maintain juiciness
- Create a “slider bar” with various toppings so guests can customize their own
- Make the meat mixture up to a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake
- For extra flavor, add 1/2 cup of finely diced onions to the beef mixture before cooking
- Try different cheese variations by mixing some shredded cheddar or pepper jack with the Velveeta
Serving Suggestions
These Velveeta Cheeseburger Sliders pair perfectly with classic sides like crispy french fries, sweet potato fries, or a simple potato salad. For a healthier option, serve with a fresh green salad or vegetable crudités with ranch dip.
Create a complete game day spread by adding buffalo wings, spinach artichoke dip, and a variety of chips and dips alongside these sliders. Don’t forget cold beverages to balance the rich, cheesy goodness!
Notes
- Sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Reheat in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes
- The meat is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F and is no longer pink in the center
- If making ahead, keep the cheese sauce separate until ready to assemble and bake
FAQs
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture up to a day ahead and refrigerate. You can also fully assemble the sliders and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking.
Can I freeze these sliders?
You can freeze the cooked meat portion, but I don’t recommend freezing the assembled sliders as the buns may become soggy when thawed.
What can I substitute for Velveeta if I don’t have any?
You can make a cheese sauce using 8 oz of shredded cheddar or American cheese melted with 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of flour (making a roux first), then slowly adding 1/2 cup of milk.
Can I make these in a slow cooker?
The meat portion can be cooked in a slow cooker on low for 3-4 hours, but you’ll still want to finish the sliders in the oven to toast the buns.
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