California Chili Cheeseburger Sliders

California Chili Cheeseburger Sliders capture comforting chili and classic cheeseburger flavor in every bite. This is the kind of dish that’s just as welcome at a tailgate as it is at a family dinner. My teenagers beg for these when friends come over and hardly a crumb is left behind.

I still remember the first time I made these sliders for a backyard get together. Everyone came back for seconds and they disappeared fast I have not stopped making them since

Ingredients

• Ground beef chuck eighty twenty fat: This makes the chili hearty and ensures the sliders stay juicy. Choose fresh and brightly colored beef
• Finely grated carrot: Adds sweetness and a little veg secretly. Pick carrots that are stiff and vibrant
• Chili powder: Gives full chili flavor. I prefer a fresh spice blend for extra depth
• Paprika: For subtle smokiness. Spanish paprika has the richest taste
• Salt: Makes all the other flavors pop. Use kosher for best control
• Black pepper: Adds warming spice and balance. Freshly ground elevates everything
• Granulated sugar: Balances out the tomatoes and chili. Just a hint
• Onion powder: Rounds out the savory notes. Choose onion powder not onion salt
• Garlic powder: Soft savory foundation. Freshness matters here too
• Beef broth: Deepens flavor. Go for low sodium so you control the salt
• Apple cider vinegar: A spark of acidity that makes flavors shine. Pick a raw unfiltered bottle if you can
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds the umami that sets good chili apart. Keep a bottle handy for many recipes
• Masarepa or masa harina: Nutty and thickening for the chili. Choose a fine grind for a smoother roux
• Vegetable oil: Binds the roux and helps with browning. Neutral flavors work best
• Kings Hawaiian rolls: Sweet contrast with savory chili. Freshness matters so check the date
• American cheese: Melts evenly and creates classic cheeseburger pulls. Full fat slices work best
• Onion and tomato: For bite and juiciness. Slice thinly and use ripe produce
• Yellow mustard: Optional but brings tang and brightness. Classic in California sliders

Step by Step Instructions

Sear the Beef and Carrots:

Set your Instant Pot to sear. Add ground beef and finely grated carrots. Let them brown together for several minutes breaking up the beef as you go. This caramelizes the meat and veggies for bigger flavor

Make the Roux:

Meanwhile measure out the masa harina and vegetable oil into a small saucepan. Cook gently over low heat stirring non stop until the mixture darkens to the color of peanut butter. This thickens the chili and gives it a touch of toasted corn flavor

Build the Chili:

Add the chili powder paprika salt black pepper sugar onion powder garlic powder beef broth apple cider vinegar Worcestershire sauce and cooled roux to the browned beef. Stir everything together so the roux dissolves

Pressure Cook the Chili:

Cancel the sear setting on your Instant Pot. Lock the lid and close the steam valve. Set the machine to manual pressure for fifteen minutes

Release and Reduce:

After cooking allow the pressure to release fully with a quick release by tapping the valve open with a wooden spoon handle. Carefully remove the lid then stir the chili and turn on sear mode again. Cook stirring often until very thick. This creates a chili that will sit perfectly on your sliders

Make the Slider Patties:

While the chili finishes divide the remaining ground beef into small portions slightly bigger than golf balls. Press into even patties a little wider than your rolls. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper

Cook the Sliders:

Heat a large skillet on medium high. Cook the patties until just done to your liking. Add the cheese slices so they melt on top or pop the burgers in the microwave for a quick melt if needed

Assemble the Sliders:

Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half. Layer on a cheese topped patty or double if you want a big bite then spoon the thick chili over the top. Add sliced onion tomato and a squiggle of yellow mustard if you like

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You Must Know

• Packed with protein and flavor in every serving
• Easily doubled for a crowd
• Makes a fantastic leftover lunch
• Masa harina is my secret favorite ingredient here I love the distinct flavor it gives the chili and it always reminds me of cozy meals my mom would make in colder weather She never skipped the roux and neither do I

Storage Tips

Leftover sliders keep well refrigerated for up to three days. Chili alone will also freeze beautifully and can be reheated for quick weeknight meals or loaded fries. For best freshness store the rolls separately and assemble sliders right before eating

Ingredient Substitutions

Turkey or plant based meat works in place of ground beef though you lose some richness. Monterey Jack can be swapped for American cheese if you like a slightly sharper flavor. If you cannot find masa harina a tablespoon of fine cornmeal will help thicken the chili but it will taste less authentic

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Serving Suggestions

These sliders are perfect paired with crunchy pickles kettle chips or a crisp green salad. Serve as an appetizer or make a meal with fries on the side. For feeding a crowd set out a toppings station so guests can build their own

Cultural Context

California style burgers are famous for their balance of bold flavors fresh toppings and playful twists like chili on top. This recipe celebrates that spirit in a bite sized package sandwiches you can hold in one hand packed with the flavors and sunshine of the Golden State

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of beef works best for these sliders?

Ground chuck with an 80:20 ratio gives a juicy bite and rich flavor for both chili and slider patties.

→ How can I make the chili thicker?

The roux with masa harina ensures a hearty consistency. Simmer the chili longer if you prefer it thicker.

→ Can I prepare the chili in advance?

Yes, the chili can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days for easy meal prep.

→ What are the best toppings?

Thinly sliced onion, tomato, and yellow mustard pair well, but you can customize with your favorite toppings.

→ Are King’s Hawaiian rolls essential?

The soft, slightly sweet rolls add unique flavor, but any soft dinner roll can be used as an alternative.

→ Can I cook the patties without a grill?

Absolutely! Simply pan-fry the mini patties until cooked through and finish with cheese for melty perfection.