Air Fryer BBQ Beef Sliders – Juicy, Saucy, and Weeknight-Friendly
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended for juiciness)
- 1/3 cup BBQ sauce, plus more for brushing
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8–10 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
- 4–5 slices cheddar or pepper jack cheese, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray (for the basket)
- Optional toppings: thinly sliced red onion, pickles, shredded lettuce, coleslaw, jalapeños
- Optional finishing: melted butter + sesame seeds for the buns
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Set to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly oil or spray the basket to help prevent sticking.
- Mix the beef: In a bowl, combine ground beef, 1/3 cup BBQ sauce, Worcestershire, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Don’t overwork; that can make the sliders tough.
- Form patties: Divide the meat into 8–10 equal portions. Shape into patties about 2.5 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick. Press a small dimple in the center of each to prevent doming.
- Air fry the first side: Arrange patties in a single layer without crowding. Cook for 4 minutes at 375°F.
- Flip and sauce: Flip the patties. Brush the tops with a little extra BBQ sauce. Air fry 3–4 more minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Add cheese: Place half a slice of cheese on each patty and cook 30–60 seconds more to melt.
- Toast the buns (optional): Split buns and toast in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes, or brush with melted butter and sprinkle sesame seeds before toasting for a bakery-style finish.
- Assemble: Spread a swipe of BBQ sauce on the buns. Add patties and your favorite toppings like pickles and red onion. Serve hot.
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