White Castle Burgers

Name: White Castle Burgers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 & 1/2 pounds lean ground beef; 1/3 cup plain bread crumbs; 1 large egg; 1 packet dry onion soup mix (1 ounce); 2 teaspoons Better Than Bouillon Beef paste; 1/4 cup milk (or water, if necessary); 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 24 small square dinner rolls (2 & 1/2-inch); 3/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup finely chopped onion; 24 dill pickle slices; 8 Kraft American cheese slices, each slice cut into 4 squares; Optional condiments: mayo, ketchup, mustard

Recipe By:

Rachael

Posted:

February 18, 2025

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White Castle Burgers have a special place in the hearts of many. If you’ve ever craved those bite-sized delights filled with savory beef, oozing cheese, and tangy pickles, you’re in for a treat! Making these miniature marvels at home is simpler than you might think, and it brings that classic fast-food flavor right into your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even a late-night snack. Plus, there’s something satisfying about gathering around a plate of sliders, sharing stories and delicious flavors. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on crafting our very own mouthwatering White Castle Burgers!

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What is White Castle Burgers

White Castle Burgers are iconic slider-style sandwiches made with thin, seasoned beef patties that are typically served on small square buns. These delectable bites are famous for their simplicity and satisfying flavors, often featuring American cheese, pickles, and onions. A beloved fast-food staple, they have become a favorite among burger enthusiasts and are often associated with late-night cravings and casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This White Castle Burgers

You’ll love these White Castle Burgers for their nostalgic taste and easy preparation. Perfect for family dinners or parties, this homemade version captures all the flavor of the original without the need for a drive-thru. The bite-sized nature makes them ideal for sharing, and they pair beautifully with your favorite dipping sauces. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or trying them for the first time, these sliders are sure to impress!

Ingredients for White Castle Burgers

1 & 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
1/3 cup plain bread crumbs
1 large egg
1 packet dry onion soup mix (1 ounce)
2 teaspoons Better Than Bouillon Beef paste
1/4 cup milk (or water, if necessary)
1/2 teaspoon pepper
24 small square dinner rolls (2 & 1/2-inch)
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
24 dill pickle slices
8 Kraft American cheese slices, each slice cut into 4 squares
Optional condiments: mayo, ketchup, mustard

How to Make Homemade White Castle Burgers

Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) to ensure it’s warm and ready for baking. This step is essential as it helps cook your sliders evenly.

Mix the Burger Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, onion soup mix, Better Than Bouillon Beef paste, milk, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. It’s important not to overmix; you want your patties to remain tender, so mix until just combined.

Prepare the Baking Sheet

Next, coat a 10×15-inch rimmed baking sheet with nonstick spray. This helps prevent sticking, ensuring your sliders turn out perfectly.

Shape the Beef Mixture

Now, spread the beef mixture evenly in the baking sheet, pressing it out to the sides. To create portions, lightly score the uncooked beef slab into 24 squares (2 & 1/2-inch each) using a sharp knife. This makes it easier to cut later.

Make Indentations

Using the back of a small round wooden spoon, stamp 5 hole impressions within each square. This step mimics the classic White Castle style that we all know and love. These little indentations will help the beef cook evenly.

Bake the Patties

Bake in the preheated oven for about 7 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer reads 160°F (70°C). Once they’re cooked, remove from the oven and drain off any excess grease.

Add Cheese

Immediately place a square of American cheese on top of each cooked beef square. The cheese should melt quickly, so return to the oven for an additional minute or until the cheese has melted beautifully.

Cut the Patties

Once the cheese has melted, using the scored lines as a guide, carefully cut the giant cooked beef patty into squares. This ensures each slider has a nice, uniform size.

Assemble the Sliders

Finally, spread any desired condiments (like mayo, ketchup, or mustard) onto the dinner rolls. Then, place a cheesy beef patty on each roll, add a dill pickle slice, and top with finely chopped onions for that signature flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your freshly made White Castle Burgers hot with a side of crispy fries or onion rings. They also pair wonderfully with a zesty coleslaw or garden salad for a refreshing contrast. These sliders are great for parties or cozy family dinners!

Tips for Success

Ensure that you do not overmix the beef mixture to keep the sliders tender.
Adjust the seasoning and toppings according to personal preferences for a unique flavor.
If you need to, bake in batches to avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. This way, each burger can cook evenly and retain that juicy goodness.

Variations

Veggie Option: Substitute the beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative. There are plenty of tasty options available these days!
Spicy Twist: For a kick, add jalapeños or spicy mayo.
Cheeseburger Style: Feel free to use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or cheddar for a unique taste.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven for best results, adding a slice of cheese if desired to refresh that gooey goodness.

Pairing Ideas

These delightful sliders can be paired with various sides and beverages, such as lightly salted fries or sweet potato fries, a classic milkshake, or a root beer float. They also go well with light beers or iced tea for a refreshing drink option to complement the flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze White Castle Burgers?
Yes, you can freeze cooked sliders! Just place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 2 months.

2. Can I use other types of buns?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any small bread or slider buns, such as potato rolls or whole wheat; creativity is key!

3. How do I ensure my burgers are juicy?
To keep them juicy, avoid overmixing the beef and make sure not to overbake, which can cause dryness.

4. What can I serve with White Castle Burgers?
Fries, onion rings, or a simple salad all make excellent side dishes that complement the sliders nicely.

5. Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
You can easily use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns to make gluten-free sliders, so everyone can enjoy them at the table!

These homemade White Castle Burgers are a fantastic way to enjoy the beloved flavors of a fast-food classic right in your kitchen. They offer a delightful blend of taste and nostalgia, making them perfect for casual family meals, gatherings, or game days. Experiment with the variations and don’t forget to pair them with your favorite sides to enhance the experience!

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