Onion Ring Smash Sliders

These Onion Ring Smash Sliders are one of those recipes that look impressive but are ridic-ulously easy to make. Each slider is cooked inside a thick onion ring on the griddle, which means built-in flavor, perfectly sized patties, and the juiciest little burgers ever. Finished on soft Hawaiian rolls with melty cheese, these sliders are perfect for game day, cookouts, or anytime you want a fun twist on classic burgers.

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Using an ice cream scoop keeps all the sliders the same size, which makes them easy to cook, easy to serve, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

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Why You’ll Love These Sliders

• Perfectly portioned sliders every time
• Onion rings add flavor and structure
• Smash-style cooking = crispy edges
• Hawaiian rolls balance savory and sweet
• Easy to scale up for parties

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What You’ll Need

Sliders

• 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20)
• 1 large sweet onion, sliced into ½-inch rings
• Salt & black pepper
• Garlic powder (optional)

For Serving

• 12 Hawaiian rolls
• 6 slices cheese, cut in half (American, cheddar, or pepper jack)
• Butter, for toasting rolls

Optional Toppings & Add-Ons

• Dill pickle chips
• Burger or special sauce
• Ketchup & mustard
• Crispy bacon pieces
• Shredded lettuce

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How to Make Onion Ring Smash Sliders

Step 1: Prep the Onion Rings

Slice the onion into ½-inch thick rings and carefully separate them. Choose rings that are close to slider-size and set aside.

Step 2: Portion the Beef

Use a standard ice cream scoop to portion the ground beef into 12 equal balls. Lightly roll just enough to hold together—don’t overwork the meat.

Step 3: Heat the Griddle

Preheat a flat-top griddle or large skillet to medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface.

Step 4: Smash Inside the Onion Rings

Place the onion rings directly onto the hot griddle. Drop one beef portion inside each ring. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Using a burger press, gently smash the beef so it fills the onion ring, pressing just enough to make contact with the griddle.

Step 5: Cook

Cook for 2–3 minutes until the bottom develops a deep golden crust. Flip carefully, add cheese immediately, and cook another 1–2 minutes until melted and juicy.

Step 6: Toast the Rolls

Butter the cut sides of the Hawaiian rolls and toast until lightly golden.

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Assemble the Sliders

Layer each slider with:

1. Bottom bun
2. Onion ring smash burger
3. Pickles or toppings of choice
4. Sauce
5. Top bun

Serve hot and melty.

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FAQ

Can I prep these ahead of time?

You can portion the beef and slice the onions ahead, but these sliders are best cooked fresh.

What cheese works best?

American melts beautifully, cheddar adds sharpness, and pepper jack brings heat.

Can I cook these on a regular skillet?

Yes! Use cast iron for best results if you don’t have a griddle.

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