Save This dish features tender slices of corned beef layered on soft slider buns, complemented by zesty mustard and optional Swiss cheese and shredded cabbage or sauerkraut. A flavorful butter mix with poppy seeds, garlic, and onion powders is brushed over the buns before baking, creating a golden, savory finish. Ideal as a satisfying snack or appetizer, it's simple to prepare and perfect for gatherings or casual meals.
The smell of melting butter and garlic always brings me back to my friend's Super Bowl party last year, where she served these sliders fresh from the oven. They disappeared in under ten minutes. I've been making them ever since, tweaking the butter topping until it creates that irresistible golden crust.
I made these for a Sunday gathering after St. Patricks Day when I had leftover corned beef taking up fridge space. My brother-in-law, who claims he hates mustard, ate four of them. Now he requests them every time he visits.
Ingredients
- Cooked corned beef: Thinly slicing the beef yourself gives you control over thickness and ensures tender bites
- Slider buns: Soft dinner rolls work beautifully but avoid hamburger buns which are too thick
- Swiss cheese: The mild nuttiness pairs perfectly without overpowering the beef
- Sauerkraut or cabbage: Adds a bright crunch that cuts through the rich meat and cheese
- Mustard: Whole-grain mustard gives little pops of flavor but yellow mustard works wonderfully
- Butter mixture: This trio of poppy seeds, garlic powder and onion powder creates restaurant-style flavor
Instructions
- Prepare your oven and pan:
- Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup
- Assemble the base:
- Arrange bottom bun halves on your prepared baking sheet and spread with mustard and optional mayonnaise
- Layer the fillings:
- Add sliced corned beef followed by Swiss cheese and a sprinkle of sauerkraut or shredded cabbage
- Close them up:
- Place the top buns over your fillings to create 12 neat sliders
- Make the butter topping:
- Whisk melted butter with poppy seeds, garlic powder and onion powder until combined
- Brush generously:
- Coat the tops of your buns with the butter mixture, getting into all those nooks and crannies
- Bake covered first:
- Cover with foil and bake for 7 minutes to melt the cheese and heat everything through
- Finish golden:
- Remove foil and bake 3 more minutes until the tops are beautifully golden and crisp
Save My aunt started bringing these to family reunions instead of her usual potato salad, and now they're the most anticipated dish on the table. Last summer, my cousin specifically requested them for his birthday instead of cake.
Make Ahead Strategy
You can assemble these sliders up to 8 hours before baking. Cover them tightly with foil and store in the refrigerator. Brush with the butter mixture just before baking for the freshest taste and texture.
Cheese Options
While Swiss is traditional, cheddar adds a sharp bite that many prefer. Provolone melts beautifully and creates that gorgeous cheese pull effect in photos. Havarti is incredibly creamy if you want something milder.
Serving Suggestions
These sliders pair perfectly with classic sides that round out a casual spread. Keep sides simple since the sliders are the star.
- Serve with a bowl of potato chips or pretzels for that satisfying crunch
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette helps cut through the richness
- Pair with cold beer or cider for the ultimate party combination
Save Theres something so satisfying about pulling these warm sliders apart and watching everyone reach for seconds. Enjoy every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best for these sliders?
-
Small slider buns or dinner rolls provide the perfect soft base to hold the corned beef and toppings.
- → Can I substitute corned beef with another meat?
-
While corned beef is traditional, you can experiment with roast beef or pastrami for a similar texture and flavor.
- → Is the mustard necessary, or can it be replaced?
-
Mustard adds a zesty kick that balances the richness, but whole-grain or yellow mustard can be swapped or omitted according to taste.
- → What optional toppings enhance these sliders?
-
Swiss cheese, shredded cabbage or sauerkraut add layers of flavor and texture, while pickles or caramelized onions can also complement nicely.
- → How should I prepare the buns for baking?
-
After layering fillings, brush the tops with melted butter mixed with poppy seeds, garlic, and onion powder, then bake until golden and cheese melts for a flavorful crust.
- → Can these sliders be made ahead of time?
-
Yes, you can assemble them earlier and refrigerate before baking, then warm through just before serving to retain freshness.
