These Air Fryer French Onion Beef Sliders are juicy little bites packed with flavor! They combine tender beef with sweet caramelized onions and gooey cheese, all on soft buns.
They cook quickly in the air fryer, making dinner easy and fun. I love serving them at parties—who can resist a delicious slider? You might want to make extra—they’ll vanish fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef gives the sliders a classic flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try turkey or chicken instead. For a vegetarian twist, use plant-based meat alternatives that can mimic the texture well.
Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce adds a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can work as a substitute, offering a different but tasty zing.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese melts beautifully and adds creaminess. If you prefer a stronger flavor, Gruyère is an excellent substitute. Otherwise, mozzarella or cheddar can also do the job well.
French Onion Dip: This is key for that signature flavor. If you’re watching your calories, you could use Greek yogurt mixed with onion powder and some spices as a healthier alternative.
Crispy Fried Onions: These add great crunch! You could also use crushed potato chips or panko breadcrumbs if you want to change things up.
How Do I Shape the Perfect Slider Patties?
Shaping your patties is crucial for even cooking and great texture. Here are some handy steps to help you out:
- Start with cold ground beef, as it holds together better when forming.
- Divide the beef into equal portions (about 1/6 of a pound for each slider).
- Gently roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it slightly, making them about ¾ inch thick.
- Make a small dip in the center of each patty with your thumb. This helps the patties cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve sliders that are juicy and flavorful, perfect for your air fryer! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Air Fryer French Onion Beef Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 slider buns
- 1 cup French onion dip
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup crispy fried onions
For Topping:
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take approximately 25-30 minutes. You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients and shape the patties, and then another 15-20 minutes for cooking and assembling the sliders. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your sliders cook evenly and get that lovely golden finish.
2. Prep the Beef Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix together the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined. Now, divide this mixture into six equal parts and shape them into slider patties.
3. Cook the Patties:
Place the slider patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are cooked to your liking. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook!
4. Prepare the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, take your slider buns and cut them in half. Place the bottom halves on a plate. This is where the delicious goodness will go!
5. Spread the French Onion Dip:
Generously spread French onion dip over the bottom halves of the buns. This will add rich flavor and creaminess to your sliders.
6. Assemble the Sliders:
Once your patties are cooked, place one patty on each bun half. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Swiss cheese on top, followed by a layer of crispy fried onions for that delightful crunch.
7. Top and Brush the Buns:
Place the top halves of the buns on each slider. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with poppy seeds if you want an extra touch of flavor.
8. Final Air Fryer Cook:
Now it’s time for the final cook! Place the assembled sliders back in the air fryer and cook them at 375°F for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is gooey and the tops are golden brown.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the sliders from the air fryer and serve them warm. You can offer some additional French onion dip on the side for dipping. Enjoy your tasty Air Fryer French Onion Beef Sliders!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Just keep in mind that you may want to adjust the seasoning slightly, as these meats can be less flavorful. Consider adding extra Worcestershire sauce or some chopped herbs for more flavor.
What If I Don’t Have French Onion Dip?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing sour cream with some onion soup mix or seasoning. If you want a lighter option, cream cheese mixed with a bit of chopped onion and seasoning can work too!
How to Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. This will help keep the buns crispy!
Can I Prepare the Sliders in Advance?
Yes! You can shape the patties and assemble the sliders a few hours ahead of time. Just cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to cook, remove them from the fridge, brush with butter and poppy seeds, and cook as directed!
