Roast Beef Sliders Recipe: Roast beef sliders are one of those perfect comfort foods that hit all the right spots—savory, cheesy, buttery, and warm.
Whether you’re planning for a game day, potluck, weeknight dinner, or just a fun snack, these sliders are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to make the best roast beef sliders—starting from the ingredient list to a detailed step-by-step method that’s easy to follow, even if you’ve never cooked before.
Why You’ll Love These Roast Beef Sliders
There’s just something magical about soft slider rolls soaked in garlic butter, stuffed with juicy roast beef and melted cheese. These sliders bring a flavor combo that’s seriously addictive. They’re bite-sized yet filling, easy to prepare, and even easier to serve—no forks, knives, or stress required. Plus, they bake in under 30 minutes and can feed a hungry crowd without breaking the bank. What’s not to love?
Perfect Occasions to Serve Roast Beef Sliders
Roast beef sliders are perfect for just about any occasion. Need quick party food for Super Bowl Sunday? These sliders are a touchdown. Looking for a satisfying dinner idea on a busy weeknight? Done. They’re also great for:
- Birthday parties
- Graduation celebrations
- Potlucks
- Holiday gatherings
- Movie nights
- Casual get-togethers
- Tailgating
Basically, if people are hungry, sliders are your solution.
What Makes These Sliders So Delicious?
Let’s break it down—these sliders are the ultimate combination of flavors and textures:
- Savory roast beef: Thinly sliced, juicy, and full of flavor.
- Melty cheese: Gooey layers of Swiss or provolone that melt into the meat.
- Garlic butter topping: A rich, buttery glaze with garlic and herbs that crisps up the buns just right.
- Soft slider rolls: Sweet Hawaiian rolls or soft dinner rolls that soak in all that buttery goodness.
Every bite is warm, buttery, cheesy, and meaty—it’s everything a good comfort food should be.
List of Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the step-by-step guide, here’s a complete breakdown of what you’ll need:
For the Sliders:
- 12-pack of Hawaiian rolls or slider buns
- 1 lb sliced roast beef (deli-style or homemade)
- 8–10 slices of Swiss cheese or provolone cheese
- Optional: sautéed onions or horseradish sauce for extra flavor
For the Garlic Butter Topping:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
You can always mix it up with your favorite seasonings or cheeses, but this combo works beautifully as-is.
Essential Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
To make the process smooth and easy, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- 9×13 inch baking dish or tray
- Small saucepan
- Sharp bread knife
- Pastry brush
- Foil for covering
- Oven (of course!)
- Spatula for serving
Choosing the Right Roast Beef
Deli vs Homemade
You can definitely use store-bought deli roast beef for this recipe—it’s quick and easy. Ask for it to be sliced thin for better layering. But if you’ve got leftover homemade roast beef? Even better. You’ll get a more robust flavor and texture.
Flavor Profile Tips
Look for roast beef with a slight pepper crust or seasoning. The added spices enhance the slider without needing to add much else. If using plain roast beef, you can sprinkle a bit of salt and black pepper between layers to bring out the taste.
Best Cheese for Roast Beef Sliders
Swiss cheese is a classic pick for roast beef—it’s mild, melts beautifully, and complements the beef’s savory profile. Provolone is another excellent choice for its rich, buttery texture. If you want something with a bit more kick, try pepper jack or cheddar. Feel free to experiment depending on your taste buds!
How to Pick the Right Slider Buns
Soft, slightly sweet buns work best—Hawaiian rolls are a favorite for a reason. They hold up well to the buttery glaze without getting soggy, and they toast perfectly in the oven. If you prefer something more neutral, go for dinner rolls or mini brioche buns.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Roast Beef Sliders
Alright, let’s get to the part you’ve been waiting for: the step-by-step recipe. Here’s how to make the best roast beef sliders from scratch:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get your baking dish or tray ready by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Slice the Buns
Carefully slice the entire sheet of rolls in half horizontally using a serrated knife—do not pull the rolls apart individually. You want one large top and one large bottom. Place the bottom half in your prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Layer the Roast Beef and Cheese
Start layering your sliced roast beef evenly across the bottom buns. Don’t skimp—make sure there’s a generous amount on each roll. Then, layer the cheese slices on top. It’s okay if the cheese overlaps a bit; it’ll melt beautifully.
If you’re using extras like sautéed onions or a thin layer of horseradish sauce, add them here.
Step 4: Replace the Top Buns
Carefully place the top half of the rolls back over the cheese and beef. Try to align them properly so they’re easy to cut later. Press down gently with your hands to secure everything in place.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, parsley, poppy seeds (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes so the flavors combine.
Step 6: Brush the Sliders
Using a pastry brush, generously brush the butter sauce all over the top of the sliders. Make sure to coat the tops and edges so every bite is full of flavor. If you have any extra sauce, pour it into the bottom of the pan—it’ll soak up into the bread while baking.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 8–10 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy and the cheese is fully melted.
Step 8: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Let the sliders cool for about 5 minutes before cutting. Use a sharp knife or spatula to slice along the roll lines and serve them up warm. Get ready for rave reviews!
Tips for Making Sliders Ahead of Time
Planning ahead? Roast beef sliders are incredibly make-ahead friendly. You can prep the entire dish hours before your guests arrive or even the night before. Here’s how to do it:
- Assemble Everything Except the Butter Topping: Layer the rolls, roast beef, cheese, and top buns in your baking dish. Wrap the dish tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the fridge.
- Add the Garlic Butter Just Before Baking: If you add the butter topping too early, the buns can get soggy. Wait until you’re ready to bake, then brush on the melted butter mixture.
- Refrigerate Up to 24 Hours Ahead: For best results, don’t make it more than a day in advance. Always let the dish sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before baking to take the chill off.
This trick is especially helpful for holidays, game nights, or if you’re just trying to make dinner time less hectic.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Let’s say you made a big batch and ended up with extras (lucky you!). Here’s how to store and reheat them properly:
Storing Leftovers:
- Let the sliders cool completely before wrapping.
- Store in an airtight container or wrap tightly in foil.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Oven (Best Method): Preheat to 325°F. Place sliders on a baking tray, cover loosely with foil, and heat for 10–12 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave (Quick Method): Wrap a single slider in a paper towel and microwave for 30–45 seconds.
- Air Fryer (Crispy Option): Heat at 300°F for 4–5 minutes.
Try not to reheat too many times, as it can dry out the meat and make the buns too chewy.
Slider Variations You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic roast beef sliders, don’t stop there—try mixing it up with these tasty variations:
- Philly Cheesesteak Sliders: Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, and provolone cheese.
- French Dip Sliders: Serve with a side of au jus for dipping.
- Spicy Horseradish Kick: Spread a thin layer of horseradish cream on the buns before layering the beef.
- BBQ Beef Sliders: Add a drizzle of barbecue sauce and use cheddar cheese instead.
- Mushroom & Swiss: Toss in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, savory boost.
These ideas let you keep the base recipe while adapting the flavor to whatever mood—or crowd—you’re feeding.
Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with Roast Beef Sliders
Want to turn these sliders into a full meal? Here are some delicious sides that go perfectly with them:
Classic Pairings:
- Potato chips or fries
- Dill pickles
- Coleslaw
- Macaroni salad
- Baked beans
Healthier Options:
- Side salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted veggie skewers
- Cucumber tomato salad
- Sweet potato fries
Drinks That Match Well:
- Iced tea
- Lemonade
- Cola or root beer
- Light beers or craft ales (for adults)
Whether you’re keeping it casual or serving a crowd, a well-rounded plate makes all the difference.
FAQs about Roast Beef Sliders Recipe
1. Can I use a different meat instead of roast beef?
Absolutely! Turkey, ham, or pulled pork work great too. Just adjust the cheese and seasonings to match the flavor of the meat.
2. Do I have to use Hawaiian rolls?
Not at all. Hawaiian rolls are sweet and soft, which makes them ideal, but you can use dinner rolls, brioche buns, or even mini ciabatta rolls if you prefer.
3. Can I freeze roast beef sliders?
Yes! Wrap them individually in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven from frozen at 325°F for 15–20 minutes.
4. How can I make these sliders spicy?
Add slices of jalapeños, use pepper jack cheese, or mix hot sauce into your garlic butter topping for a spicy kick.
5. Can I use shredded cheese instead of sliced cheese?
Sure! Shredded cheese melts just as well. Just sprinkle it evenly between the beef layers and you’re good to go.
Conclusion
Roast beef sliders are hands-down one of the easiest, most satisfying recipes you can keep in your rotation. Whether you’re hosting a party, need a quick weeknight meal, or want to impress your guests with something that tastes gourmet but only takes minutes to throw together—this recipe is your new go-to.
With juicy roast beef, gooey cheese, and that irresistible garlic butter glaze, you’re looking at a flavor-packed bite in every single slider. Plus, with the flexibility to make them ahead of time and customize the fillings, you can turn this recipe into your own signature dish.
So grab a baking dish, fire up the oven, and get ready to wow your friends and family—one buttery, melty slider at a time.
