Sliders with Pesto Mozzarella

Name: Sliders with Pesto Mozzarella
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 12 slider buns; 1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced; 1/2 cup pesto sauce; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Every time I make these sliders with pesto mozzarella, I feel like a culinary rock star. The combination of juicy, perfectly grilled patties with creamy, melted mozzarella and aromatic pesto creates an explosion of flavor in each bite. I love how quick and easy they are to assemble, making them perfect for parties or casual dinners. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to elevate a simple burger to gourmet status. Once you try these sliders, you'll be hooked on their vibrant taste and wonderful texture for good!

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:55:06.480Z

I remember when I first tried sliders with pesto mozzarella at a food truck festival. The flavors were so vibrant, and I knew I had to recreate them at home. We experimented with various cheeses and sauces, but the combination of fresh mozzarella and homemade pesto truly stood out. The key is to ensure that the patties are grilled over high heat – this seals in the juices and creates a delicious crust.

During one of our family barbecues, I decided to serve these sliders. They were an instant hit! To make the experience even more enjoyable, I paired them with homemade sweet potato fries and a refreshing side salad. The flavors balanced perfectly, leaving everyone wanting seconds.

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Deliciously gooey pesto mozzarella that elevates the classic slider
Quick cooking time makes them perfect for weeknight dinners
Versatile for any occasion, from casual gatherings to game days

      

Transforming Basic Ingredients

The magic of these sliders lies in their simplicity. The core ingredient, ground beef, is rich in flavor and provides the savory foundation for the sliders. When choosing ground beef, aim for an 80/20 blend for optimal tenderness and juiciness. Avoid leaner cuts to ensure your patties don’t dry out on the grill. Mixing in salt and pepper enhances these flavors, but consider adding minced garlic or onion for an additional flavor boost.

Beyond the beef, the construction of these sliders focuses on texture and flavor. The fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a gooey layer atop the patty. In contrast, the pesto sauce adds a vibrant, herby brightness, complementing the richness of the cheese and meat. If you prefer, you can substitute a sharp provolone or even a pepper jack for a spicy kick, but ensure it's a cheese that melts well to achieve that delightful gooeyness.

Perfecting the Grilling Technique

Grilling the patties to perfection is essential for getting that juicy outcome. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F, to promote a savory char while keeping the interior moist. When placing the patties on the grill, avoid overcrowding; allow some space between them for even cooking. Use a spatula to press the patties gently, but don’t squish them too hard, as this can cause juices to escape, leading to dry sliders.

During the final moments of cooking, when the patties are nearly done, it’s crucial to add the mozzarella cheese and cover the grill lid. This traps heat and allows the cheese to melt uniformly within just a minute. Keep a close eye here, as the cheese can quickly go from perfectly melty to overdone. If you’re using an oven-safe pan instead of a grill, place it under the broiler for a couple of minutes to achieve similar results without losing that grilled flavor.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

1 lb ground beef
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
12 slider buns
1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced
1/2 cup pesto sauce
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Directions

Instructions

Prepare the Patties

In a bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until fully incorporated. Form the mixture into 12 small patties.

Grill the Patties

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.

Add the Cheese and Assemble

During the last minute of cooking, add a slice of mozzarella to each patty and close the grill lid to melt the cheese. Remove the patties and place each one on a slider bun. Top with pesto and garnish with fresh basil.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, toast the slider buns lightly before assembling. You can also add sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers as additional toppings.

Make-Ahead Tips

These sliders can be prepped in advance, making them ideal for hosting or meal prep. You can form the patties and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat, enhancing the flavor. If you wish to freeze them, wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap and then store them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months and cooked straight from frozen—just increase the grill time by a few minutes.

For a more efficient assembly later, you can also prepare the pesto sauce in advance. Homemade pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for about a week or frozen for longer, allowing you to have a gourmet addition ready when you need it. Just make sure to seal it well to prevent oxidation.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders are perfect on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with various sides. Sweet potato fries or a fresh arugula salad with a light vinaigrette pair wonderfully, balancing the richness of the sliders. For a twist, consider serving them with a side of roasted vegetables or pickled onions to introduce a tangy contrast to your meal.

If you're hosting a gathering, set up a slider bar with various toppings. Think roasted red peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or even different types of cheeses and aioli sauces. This interactive setup not only makes your sliders versatile but also invites your guests to customize their meal to their liking, making the dining experience more enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef for the sliders?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as turkey tends to cook faster.

→ How can I store leftover sliders?

Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I make the sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! Shape the patties ahead and store them in the fridge. Grill them just before serving for the best taste.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

They pair wonderfully with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or even chips for a quick snack!