Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this Maid-Rite sliders casserole will become a favorite.
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Classic Midwestern flavor. Tastes like a classic loose-meat sandwich.
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Easy to serve. No messy assembly.
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Crowd-pleasing. Perfect for game day, potlucks, or family dinners.
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Budget-friendly. Ground beef and slider buns are inexpensive.
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Make-ahead friendly. Assemble and refrigerate before baking.
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Customizable. Add your favorite toppings.
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Ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
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1 1/2 pounds ground beef
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1/2 cup beef broth
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1 package (12 count) slider buns
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1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
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1/4 cup butter, melted
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1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Ingredient Notes
Ground beef: Use 80% to 90% lean ground beef. Leaner beef means less grease to drain. If you use fattier beef, drain the excess fat thoroughly.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness and depth. Dice it finely.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds savory umami. Essential for the classic Maid-Rite flavor.
Beef broth: Adds moisture and flavor. Helps create a loose, saucy texture.
Slider buns: Use soft slider buns. Hawaiian rolls are a great option.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar provides bold flavor. Shred your own cheese from a block if possible.
Sesame seeds: Adds a classic diner-style finish.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onion
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is fully browned and the onions are tender. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Season with salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in the beef broth and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Prepare the Buns
Slice the slider buns in half horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms intact.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Place the bottom halves of the slider buns in a single layer in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the beef mixture evenly over the buns. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Place the top halves of the slider buns over the cheese layer.
Step 6: Top and Bake
Brush the melted butter over the top of the buns. Sprinkle with sesame seeds. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the tops of the buns are golden and the cheese is melted.
Step 7: Serve
Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing into individual sliders and serving.
How to Serve Maid-Rite Sliders
These sliders are delicious on their own, but a few simple toppings can enhance them.
With Mustard: Classic yellow mustard is the traditional topping.
With Pickles: Dill pickle slices add tang and crunch.
With Onions: Add extra chopped onions for crunch.
With Ketchup: A classic American condiment.
With a Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad.
With Chips: Serve alongside potato chips or fries.
Variations & Tips
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
Make It With Turkey: Substitute ground turkey for the beef.
Make It With Different Cheese: Use provolone or Monterey Jack.
Make It With Hawaiian Rolls: Use sweet Hawaiian rolls for extra flavor.
Make It With Coleslaw: Top with coleslaw for a crunch.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free buns.
Make It Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
Make It in a Slow Cooker: Cook the beef mixture in a slow cooker on LOW for 2 to 3 hours. Assemble the sliders just before serving.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Drain the beef well. Excess grease can make the casserole greasy.
Do not overcook the beef mixture. It should be moist and saucy.
Use fresh buns. Stale buns will become dry.
Do not skip the foil cover. This steams the buns and keeps them soft.
Let the casserole rest before slicing. This allows the cheese to set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. Provolone or Monterey Jack work well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes. Assemble but do not bake. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my casserole dry?
The beef mixture was too dry, or the buns absorbed too much liquid. Add extra broth to the beef mixture.
Why are my buns soggy?
The beef mixture was too wet, or the casserole was covered too long. Drain the beef well. Do not overbake.
Can I add more cheese?
Yes. Use up to 2 cups of cheese.
Can I add vegetables to the beef mixture?
Yes. Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms.
Can I use a different bun?
Yes. Any soft slider bun works.
The Maid-Rite Legacy
Maid-Rite is a Midwestern institution. The first Maid-Rite sandwich was served in 1926 in Muscatine, Iowa. The loose-meat sandwich became a regional icon. It is not a hamburger. It is not a sloppy joe. It is something in between. Seasoned ground beef piled high on a soft bun.
This casserole honors that legacy. It takes the classic flavors and makes them even easier to serve. It is perfect for feeding a crowd. It is perfect for game day. It is perfect for any time you want a taste of the Midwest.
Keep ground beef in your freezer. Keep slider buns in your bread basket. Keep cheese in your fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Yield: 12 sliders