California Chili Cheeseburger Sliders

There’s something magical about sliders. Maybe it’s because they’re the perfect excuse to eat more than one burger, or maybe it’s because they pack so much flavor into such a small package. Either way, these California Chili Cheeseburger Sliders are the kind of appetizer-turned-meal that instantly upgrades your game day spread or backyard gathering.

These mini burgers aren’t just your average sliders. We’re talking juicy, seasoned beef patties topped with sharp cheddar, a spoonful of homemade chili (yes, real chili!), creamy avocado, crisp red onion, and a little lettuce for crunch—all piled high on buttery toasted buns. It’s like a full-on backyard BBQ experience in every single bite.

And let me tell you—these are messy in the best way. But don’t worry, I’ve got tips to help you make them without a hitch. Whether you’re planning a party, looking for something fun for dinner, or just love a good burger twist, these sliders are a total win.

Let’s get into the first part of the recipe so you can see just how easy they are to put together.

this recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Sliders:

• 1½ lbs ground beef

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

For the Chili:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ lb ground beef

• ½ cup diced onion

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 cup crushed tomatoes

• 1 tbsp chili powder

• ½ tsp cumin

• Salt to taste

To Build the Sliders:

• 6 slider buns

• 6 slices sharp cheddar cheese

• 1 avocado, sliced

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

• Lettuce leaves

• Pickled jalapeños (optional)

• Butter (for toasting the buns)

STEP 1: Season and Shape the Patties

In a large bowl, mix together the 1½ lbs of ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Try not to overmix here—just use your hands or a spoon to gently combine everything until it’s evenly seasoned.

Now divide the mixture into six equal portions and form them into small, slider-sized patties. I usually make them slightly wider than the buns since they’ll shrink a bit while cooking.

Quick Tip: Press a small dent in the center of each patty with your thumb—this helps them stay flat and cook evenly.

STEP 2: Cook the Patties

Heat a skillet or fire up your grill to medium-high. Once hot, add the patties and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, depending on how well-done you like your burgers. When they’re nearly done, go ahead and add a slice of sharp cheddar cheese on top of each one. Cover the pan or close the grill lid for a minute to help that cheese get perfectly melty.

Pro Tip: Don’t press down on the patties with a spatula—that just squeezes out all those flavorful juices!

STEP 3: Make the Chili

While your patties are doing their thing, it’s time to whip up the chili. And don’t worry—it’s a small batch, quick-cooking chili that comes together fast.

In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion softens and gets fragrant. Toss in the ½ pound of ground beef and cook until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with your spoon.

Once browned, stir in the crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt. Let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the chili has thickened slightly. It should still be saucy but not too runny—perfect for spooning on top of your sliders.

Make-Ahead Note: This chili is even better the next day. If you’re planning ahead, cook it the day before and simply warm it up when it’s time to build your sliders.

Now that we’ve got our patties grilled and chili simmered to perfection, it’s time for the fun part—putting everything together. This is where the magic really happens. Each layer adds something special, from the crisp freshness of the lettuce to the creamy avocado and that irresistible hint of heat from pickled jalapeños.

Whether you’re serving these up for a casual dinner or a backyard get-together, the build is what takes these sliders from good to unforgettable. Let’s keep it going!

STEP 4: Toast the Buns

Before we start stacking, don’t skip this step—it makes a world of difference. Lightly butter the insides of your slider buns and toast them in a skillet or in the oven until they’re golden and just crisp on the edges.

Not only does this add great flavor and texture, but it also helps the buns hold up under all those juicy, saucy toppings.

Tip: If you’re working with a big batch, toasting them on a sheet pan in the oven (about 350°F for 5–7 minutes) is the easiest way to get them done all at once.

STEP 5: Assemble the Sliders

Here comes the layering! Grab your toasted buns and start stacking:

1. Bottom bun – Start with a leaf of lettuce to help catch any juices.

2. Cheeseburger patty – Juicy, cheesy, and hot off the skillet.

3. A generous spoonful of warm chili – This is where things get deliciously messy (in the best way).

4. Sliced avocado – Creamy and cool, it balances the heat.

5. Thinly sliced red onion – For crunch and a pop of sharp flavor.

6. Pickled jalapeños (optional) – Add them if you love a spicy kick.

7. Top bun – Gently press it all down to hold everything together.

Serving Tip: Have plenty of napkins handy. These sliders are saucy, cheesy, and oh-so-worth-it.

Tips & Variations to Make These Your Own

These sliders are already packed with flavor, but if you’re anything like me, you love a little room to play. Here are a few easy ways to tweak the recipe and make it fit your crowd or cravings:

• Make it Spicier – Add a spoonful of chipotle in adobo to the chili, or swap out cheddar for pepper jack cheese.

• Go Mini Vegetarian – Swap the beef patty for a small black bean burger and make a hearty veggie chili.

• Add Bacon – Because honestly, when has bacon ever made a burger worse?

• Try a Brioche Bun – If you want to get fancy, brioche slider buns add a hint of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory chili and cheese.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders are hearty enough to stand on their own, but if you’re looking to build out a full spread, here are a few sides that pair perfectly:

• Crispy French Fries – Classic and always a hit.

• Simple Coleslaw – Adds crunch and a cool, tangy contrast.

• Corn on the Cob – Grilled with a little chili-lime butter? Yes, please.

• Sweet Potato Wedges – A slightly sweet and savory pairing.

If you’re entertaining, consider setting up a “slider bar” with toppings laid out buffet-style so guests can build their own. It’s a fun way to serve a crowd and lets everyone customize their bite.