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Flavorful Slam Dunk Sliders Recipe with Crispy Shoestring Fries

slam dunk sliders - featured image

Juicy, perfectly seasoned beef sliders paired with crispy shoestring fries and a tangy secret sauce, perfect for game nights and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 slider buns, lightly toasted
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
  • Pickles, thinly sliced
  • Leafy lettuce or baby spinach, washed and dried
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • β…“ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 3 large russet potatoes, peeled or unpeeled
  • Vegetable oil for frying (canola or peanut oil)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: garlic powder or smoked paprika for seasoning fries

Instructions

  1. Peel potatoes if desired, then slice into very thin matchstick-sized fries (about 1/8 inch thick) using a mandoline or sharp knife.
  2. Rinse sliced potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch, then soak in cold water for at least 15 minutes.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, honey, vinegar, and cayenne pepper until smooth. Cover and chill until ready to serve.
  4. Drain potatoes and pat dry with paper towels.
  5. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix gently without overworking.
  6. Divide meat mixture into 8 equal portions and shape into small patties about 2.5 inches in diameter and Β½ inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb.
  7. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Fry potato sticks in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy. Transfer fries to paper towel-lined plate and season immediately with salt and optional seasonings.
  8. Heat cast iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness. Add cheddar slice on each patty during last minute and cover briefly to melt cheese.
  9. Toast slider buns lightly if not already toasted.
  10. Assemble sliders by spreading secret sauce on bottom buns, adding lettuce or spinach, cheesy patty, pickle slices, and topping with bun crowns.
  11. Serve sliders immediately with a generous handful of crispy shoestring fries.

Notes

[‘Do not overmix the beef to keep sliders tender.’, ‘Make a thumb indentation in patties to prevent puffing.’, ‘Use a cast iron skillet for even heat and a good crust.’, ‘Double fry fries for extra crispiness if desired.’, ‘Season fries immediately after frying while hot.’, ‘Keep fries warm in a low oven if making multiple batches.’, ‘Avoid pressing patties while cooking to retain juiciness.’, ‘Substitute ground turkey or plant-based beef for lighter or vegetarian options.’, ‘Use vegan mayo for dairy-free sauce.’, ‘Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps for gluten-free diet.’, ‘Reheat fries in oven or air fryer to maintain crispness.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: sliders, beef sliders, shoestring fries, game night food, easy dinner, party snacks, crispy fries, secret sauce