Chopped Cheese Sliders Recipe

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Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly. Original recipe (1X) yields 12 servings.

Chopped Cheese Sauce

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Sliders

• 1 pound 80% lean ground beef
• 6 slices American cheese or Cheddar cheese, or a combination, plus more as needed
• 1 (12 ounce) package Hawaiian sweet rolls, such as King's
• 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
• 1 small white onion, finely diced
• Dill pickle chips or chopped pickles, as needed (optional)

Directions

1. Gather all ingredients.
2. In a small bowl, stir together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, about 8 minutes. If desired, drain excess fat.
4. Lower the heat to avoid overcooking the beef. Place cheese slices directly over the cooked beef and allow them to melt, about 3 minutes. Once melted, chop the beef and cheese together to achieve the signature chopped cheese texture.
5. Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping them attached. Spread the chopped cheese sauce on both halves of the rolls.
6. Evenly distribute the beef and cheese mixture over the bottom half of the rolls. Top with shredded lettuce, diced onion, and pickles (if using).
7. Place the top half of the rolls back on the sliders and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	263
Total Fat	14g (19%)
Saturated Fat	5g (27%)
Cholesterol	59mg (20%)
Sodium	330mg (14%)
Total Carbohydrates	18g (6%)
Dietary Fiber	1g (4%)
Total Sugars	6g
Protein	15g (30%)
Vitamin C	1mg (1%)
Calcium	168mg (13%)
Iron	2mg (11%)
Potassium	243mg (5%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

The Story Behind Chopped Cheese Sliders

Chopped Cheese Sliders trace their origins to the bustling bodegas of Harlem, New York, during the late 20th century. This humble sandwich was born out of necessity, offering an affordable, flavorful meal for locals. Combining ground beef, melted American cheese, and fresh toppings on soft rolls, the dish quickly became a neighborhood staple, celebrated for its simplicity and satisfying taste. Despite its urban roots, the sandwich has crossed city limits and gained popularity in various food circles worldwide.

Regional Variations and Local Twists

While the original Chopped Cheese Slider hails from Harlem, regional variations have emerged across New York City and beyond. In some areas, cooks may substitute cheddar or provolone for American cheese, add sauted peppers, or incorporate spicy sauces to appeal to local tastes. The Hawaiian rolls used in many modern recipes add a subtle sweetness, differentiating it from the classic bodega version served on standard hero rolls. Even within Harlem, each deli and bodega has its unique approach, reflecting personal touches and neighborhood preferences.

How It Differs from Similar Sandwiches

At first glance, Chopped Cheese Sliders resemble cheeseburgers or Philly cheesesteaks, but there are key differences. Unlike a traditional cheeseburger, the beef and cheese are cooked together and chopped on the griddle, creating a uniform, gooey texture. Unlike a Philly cheesesteak, the sliders are smaller, use sweet rolls, and include simple toppings like lettuce, onions, and pickles rather than peppers or mushrooms. This combination of soft bread, finely chopped meat, and melted cheese defines the sandwich's signature identity.

Where Youll Commonly Find Them

Originally a Harlem bodega favorite, Chopped Cheese Sliders have expanded into casual diners, food trucks, and trendy restaurants throughout New York City. They are often served as lunch specials, late-night snacks, or part of a slider platter in bars and eateries. Their small size and convenient packaging make them ideal for quick meals, yet they maintain the hearty, satisfying quality of a full-sized sandwich.

Fun Facts and Cultural Impact

Chopped Cheese Sliders have achieved cult status in New York food culture, frequently appearing in social media posts and culinary blogs. Celebrities and chefs have praised the sandwich for its authentic, street-food charm. Despite its popularity, it remains an emblem of Harlem's local culinary ingenuity. Interestingly, the term "chopped cheese" refers specifically to the method of chopping meat and cheese together on the griddle, a step that distinguishes it from any ordinary cheeseburger. Some food historians argue that this simple method reflects a broader tradition of resourceful, fast-cooking meals found in urban communities around the world.

FAQ about Chopped Cheese Sliders Recipe