Sliders with Pesto Mozzarella

Name: Sliders with Pesto Mozzarella
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 12 slider buns; 1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced; Fresh basil leaves for garnish; 2 cups fresh basil leaves; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup pine nuts; 2 garlic cloves, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love making these Sliders with Pesto Mozzarella for gatherings or leisurely weekend lunches. The combination of juicy patties, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil pesto creates an explosion of flavors that my family and friends rave about. Each slider is a delightful bite-sized treat that’s easy to assemble. Plus, they can be served as appetizers or a main dish, making them incredibly versatile. I can't wait to share this recipe with you—it’s a game-changer for any occasion!

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:28:07.186Z

When I first tried making Sliders with Pesto Mozzarella, I was instantly hooked. The secret lies in combining high-quality meat with fresh ingredients like homemade pesto and creamy mozzarella. I remember the first time I made them, the flavors melded together beautifully, and I carved out a little time to toast the slider buns for extra texture.

Since then, I’ve experimented with various toppings, but I always return to the classic pesto and mozzarella duo. The freshness of the basil really elevates the dish, and I often serve these sliders with a side of sweet potato fries for the perfect balance. You’ll feel like a culinary star with this simple yet mouthwatering recipe!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy patties enhanced with aromatic basil pesto
Creamy mozzarella that melts deliciously
Perfect for parties, picnics, or a cozy night in

      

Perfecting the Pesto

When making the pesto, use fresh basil leaves for an aromatic punch. I recommend picking basil just before you blend for maximum flavor. The key to a great pesto is balancing the ingredients. If it's too thick, add more olive oil until it reaches your desired consistency. A well-made pesto should be smooth but still slightly grainy from the pine nuts, providing a contrast to the creamy mozzarella in the sliders.

Don’t hesitate to adjust the flavor with a pinch of salt or an extra clove of garlic if you like a bolder taste. If you're short on pine nuts, walnuts or pumpkin seeds can create a delicious twist on traditional pesto. Remember to taste as you blend, so you can achieve that perfect blend of herbal freshness and rich cheese flavor.

Once you’ve made your pesto, consider storing any leftover in an airtight container. To preserve its vibrant green color, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the surface before sealing. This helps prevent oxidation and allows you to enjoy that fresh flavor later in the week. It's also a wonderful addition to pasta or as a salad dressing base.

Cooking the Sliders to Perfection

When forming your sliders, aim for uniformity in size to ensure even cooking. About 2 ounces of ground beef per patty usually works great. Avoid overworking the meat while forming the patties to keep them juicy. A slight indentation in the center will help keep the patties flat as they cook, preventing them from puffing up.

As you cook, keep an eye on the heat level. A medium-high setting is ideal for a nice sear. Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F to guarantee your beef is fully cooked. If you’re using a skillet, you can add a splash of water and cover it for the last minute to create steam, which will help melt the mozzarella more evenly.

If you're gearing up for a party and making a big batch, try baking the sliders instead. Line them up on a baking sheet and cook in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes. This method will give you perfectly cooked patties every time, freeing you up to chat with your guests.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for an amazing slider experience:

For the Sliders

1 pound ground beef
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
12 slider buns
1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

For the Pesto

2 cups fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup pine nuts
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Having these fresh ingredients on hand makes all the difference in flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the perfect Sliders with Pesto Mozzarella:

Prepare the Pesto

In a food processor, combine basil, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, pine nuts, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, then set aside.

Make the Beef Patties

In a bowl, combine ground beef with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form into small slider-sized patties.

Cook the Sliders

Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Place a slice of mozzarella on each patty during the last minute to melt.

Assemble the Sliders

Spread pesto on the bottom half of each slider bun. Place the melted patty on top, add basil leaves, and finish with the top bun.

Serve

Serve immediately while warm, and enjoy your Sliders with Pesto Mozzarella!

Enjoy these delightful sliders fresh off the grill!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, grill the slider buns for a crispy finish. You can also substitute turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving these sliders with a side of sweet potato fries or a crisp salad; they balance the richness of the beef and cheese beautifully. You could also prepare a dipping sauce using leftover pesto mixed with Greek yogurt for a creamy twist. For a fun twist, consider a mini slider bar with toppings such as sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or spicy aioli.

If you're serving them as an appetizer, consider cutting each slider in half to create bite-sized pieces. Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving. Adding a small bowl of pickles or olives on the side can elevate the presentation and give guests a crunchy counterpoint to the creamy elements of the sliders.

Another great idea is to pair these sliders with a light beer or a refreshing lemonade. Both options complement the flavors of basil and mozzarella perfectly, ensuring that your gathering feels lively and fun.

Make-Ahead Tips

These sliders can absolutely be a make-ahead option! You can prepare the beef patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator, separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking. They can last up to 24 hours. This makes the assembly on the day of your gathering quick and easy!

Additionally, the pesto can be made up to four days in advance; just store it in the refrigerator. If you’re looking to keep them longer, consider freezing the patties. Lay them out individually on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a resealable bag for up to three months. This way, you can cook them straight from the freezer when needed—just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Don’t forget, when you prep ahead, you not only save time but also maximize flavor. The beef patties will have time to marinate in the seasoning which adds depth, while the pesto can meld in the fridge to enhance its flavors before you pile them on the sliders.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the pesto in advance?

Absolutely! You can store homemade pesto in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

They pair wonderfully with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or your favorite dipping sauces.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor.

→ How do I know when the sliders are fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check; the internal temperature should be 160°F (71°C) for ground beef.