Sliders are mini burgers that offer the delicious flavor of a full-sized burger, but in a smaller, more manageable size. Whether you’re making them for a family meal, a party, or just as a quick snack, sliders can be customized in so many ways to suit various tastes. Cooking sliders in the air fryer is a fantastic way to get them crispy on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful, all without the need for excessive oil or frying. The air fryer’s hot circulating air creates a crisp, golden crust while maintaining the tenderness of the beef or other proteins you may choose.
In this recipe, we will prepare classic beef sliders with melted cheese, fresh lettuce, pickles, and a dash of ketchup, but feel free to get creative with your toppings! From chicken to veggie patties, the possibilities are endless. Air frying the sliders reduces the cooking time and requires less monitoring, making it an ideal method for busy weekdays or casual gatherings.
The beauty of sliders is that they can easily be scaled to fit the number of guests or your own personal craving. Air fryer sliders are perfect for meal prepping as they store well in the refrigerator and can be reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes, maintaining their crispy texture.
Sliders
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450 g ground beef (80% lean)
- 6 slider buns
- 6 slices of cheese American, cheddar, or your choice
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard optional
- 6 pickle slices
- 6 small lettuce leaves optional
- 1 small onion optional, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Ground Beef: Start by placing the ground beef in a bowl. Season it with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (optional). Mix gently until combined. Form the mixture into 6 small, even patties, making sure they fit the size of your slider buns.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your sliders cook evenly and develop that crispy texture on the outside.
- Air Fry the Beef Patties: Place the beef patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching each other. Air fry the patties for about 6 minutes. After 6 minutes, flip the patties and continue air frying for another 2 minutes, or until they reach your desired doneness.
- Toast the Slider Buns: While the patties are cooking, cut the slider buns in half. After the patties are done, place the buns in the air fryer for about 2 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to toast them lightly. This will add a nice crispness to the buns, which complements the juicy sliders.
- Assemble the Sliders: Once the patties and buns are ready, assemble the sliders. Place a beef patty on the bottom half of each bun. Add a slice of cheese on top of the patty while it is still hot to allow it to melt. Then, top with a pickle slice, a small lettuce leaf (if desired), and a dollop of ketchup or mustard.
- Serve and Enjoy: Place the top half of the buns on the assembled sliders and serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy!
Video
Notes
- Customization: Feel free to use chicken, turkey, or vegetarian patties as alternatives to beef.
- Toppings: Switch up the toppings to match your taste—try adding caramelized onions, tomatoes, or different sauces like BBQ or ranch.
- Storage: Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free slider buns to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Air Fryer Variations: Different air fryers may vary in cooking time. Adjust as necessary to achieve your preferred level of doneness.
Nutrition
Health Benefits of Air Fryer Sliders
Air fryer sliders are a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried sliders, mainly because they require much less oil, yet still achieve that crispy texture we love. By cooking them in the air fryer, you can significantly reduce the amount of unhealthy fats typically associated with frying.
Ground beef, especially lean cuts, offers a good source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Protein is vital for muscle repair and growth, as well as for immune function. The use of fresh vegetables like lettuce and pickles adds fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins A and C, which support digestive health and the immune system. Opting for whole grain buns can also boost the fiber content of your meal, aiding in better digestion and helping maintain steady energy levels.
By using less oil in the cooking process, air fryer sliders reduce overall calorie intake, making them a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor. Moreover, air fryers provide a faster cooking time, preserving nutrients that may otherwise be lost in slower cooking methods. By carefully choosing lean meats, fresh vegetables, and whole grain buns, air fryer sliders can fit seamlessly into a healthier eating plan, offering a delicious yet nutritious alternative to traditional burgers.
1 comment
I tried these sliders for my family gathering, and they were a hit! The air fryer made them so crispy, and the toppings were fresh and flavorful. I used turkey patties instead of beef, and they turned out great. Definitely making these again!