Tot Sliders

Cook Time: 20 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 16 servings

• 32 frozen potato rounds (such as Ore-Ida Crispy Crowns)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 8 ounces ground beef (85% lean)
• pinch kosher salt
• teaspoon black pepper
• 4 slices American cheese
• 1 tablespoon ketchup, or to taste
• 1 tablespoon mustard, or to taste
• 16 pickled gherkins, drained
• 16 toothpicks

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 450F (230C).

Step 2: Toss frozen potato rounds with vegetable oil on a 10x15-inch baking pan, ensuring they are evenly coated. Spread them into a single layer.

Step 3: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the potato rounds are golden, browned, and crisp.

Step 4: While the potatoes bake, lay the ground beef on a sheet of waxed paper. Place another sheet of waxed paper on top and press the beef into a 4x6-inch rectangle.

Step 5: Remove the top sheet of waxed paper. Sprinkle the beef with kosher salt and black pepper, then cut it into sixteen 1x1-inch rectangles.

Step 6: Break each slice of American cheese into quarters. Fold the quarters over to form 16 pieces of double-layered cheese.

Step 7: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the beef rectangles until browned on one side, about 3 minutes.

Step 8: Flip the beef over, top each piece with a slice of cheese, and cover the skillet. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, or until the beef is no longer pink in the center and the cheese has melted.

Step 9: Assemble the mini burgers by topping one potato round with a cheeseburger, then adding a small dollop of ketchup, mustard, and a pickled gherkin. Place another potato round on top to form a stack.

Step 10: Secure the stack with a toothpick. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make 16 mini burgers.

Cook's Note: Peanut oil can also be used in place of vegetable oil for frying the tots.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving:

• Calories: 114
• Fat: 7g (9% of Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 3g (13% of Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 17mg (6% of Daily Value)
• Sodium: 298mg (13% of Daily Value)
• Carbohydrates: 9g (3% of Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 0g (1% of Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 5g (10% of Daily Value)
• Calcium: 45mg (3% of Daily Value)
• Iron: 0mg (2% of Daily Value)
• Potassium: 91mg (2% of Daily Value)

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

Recipe by Dan Whalen

History of Tot Sliders

The Tot Sliders recipe is a modern twist on the classic American slider, combining the comfort of a cheeseburger with the crispy appeal of potato tots. These mini sliders gained popularity as a fun, finger-friendly option for parties and casual gatherings, merging two beloved snacks into one delicious bite-sized creation. They are perfect for those who crave the crunch of potato tots with the savory, juicy flavor of a mini burger. While the exact origins are unclear, the concept of slider-style sandwiches is deeply embedded in American fast food culture, with Tot Sliders bringing a playful, creative flair to the tradition.

Regional Characteristics

Tot Sliders have a distinctly American feel, likely originating from regions known for their love of comfort food and casual dining. While these sliders are enjoyed across the United States, they are especially popular in places where finger foods and creative takes on traditional snacks are celebrated. The use of frozen potato tots, such as those from Ore-Ida, reflects the convenience-driven culture of many American kitchens, particularly in suburban areas where ease of preparation and family-friendly meals are prioritized. The addition of pickled gherkins further enhances the regional appeal, as pickles are a common topping for burgers and sandwiches nationwide.

How Tot Sliders Differ from Similar Dishes

While Tot Sliders share similarities with traditional sliderssmall sandwiches typically made with a single patty and served with toppingsthe key difference lies in their choice of "buns." Instead of using traditional bread rolls, Tot Sliders replace the buns with crispy potato tots. This gives the dish a crunchy texture that complements the soft, melty cheese and savory beef patty inside. Unlike regular sliders, which may use a variety of fillings such as chicken or pulled pork, Tot Sliders stick to the classic beef patty, but the combination of potato and burger makes for a unique flavor and texture contrast.

Where Tot Sliders Are Typically Served

Tot Sliders are a popular choice for parties, game day snacks, and casual gatherings. They are often served as appetizers or finger foods at barbecues, potlucks, or any occasion where a fun, easy-to-eat snack is needed. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for social events, and their playful looktopped with a cute toothpickadds a whimsical touch to any spread. Additionally, they are a favorite at casual dining establishments and food trucks, where inventive takes on traditional comfort foods are often embraced by patrons looking for something different.

Interesting Facts About Tot Sliders

Did you know that the concept of using potato tots as a "bun" actually plays into the larger trend of reinventing classic fast food? While burgers and sliders have been around for decades, the introduction of potato-based buns highlights a growing desire to experiment with ingredients and textures. Tot Sliders are also a great example of the increasing popularity of "fusion" cuisine, where two iconic dishespotato tots and slidersare combined to create something new and exciting. Whether you add extra toppings like bacon or switch up the condiments, theres room for creativity, making this dish endlessly customizable!

FAQ about Tot Sliders

Comments