Guacamole Smash Sliders
Highlighted under: International Dish Inspirations
I absolutely love making Guacamole Smash Sliders for gatherings and casual dinners. Combining creamy guacamole with perfectly cooked sliders creates an explosion of flavors that never fails to impress. The sliders are not only easy to prepare but also customizable, allowing us to mix in our favorite ingredients to create unique versions. Whether it's game night or a simple family meal, these sliders are always a hit and a delightful way to elevate the classic burger experience.
When I first created these Guacamole Smash Sliders, I wanted to merge two of my favorite foods: guacamole and sliders. I experimented with various ingredients and methods, finally landing on the perfect balance of flavors. The key to achieving that beautiful smash on the patties is using a cast-iron skillet, which helps to caramelize the meat's edges while keeping the center juicy. Each bite reveals an impressive combination that keeps everyone coming back for more.
One tip I discovered is to chill the guacamole before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives a truly refreshing contrast to the warm sliders. I recommend using fresh ingredients in the guacamole to really make this dish pop—trust me, your guests will rave about it!
Why You'll Love These Sliders
- Creamy guacamole elevates the classic slider experience
- Perfectly smashed patties with a crispy exterior
- Easy to prepare and fun for everyone to assemble
Perfecting the Slider Patties
When preparing the slider patties, it's crucial to handle the ground beef gently. Overworking the meat can result in tough sliders. I recommend using your hands to mix in salt and pepper just enough to season the beef. Form each patty slightly larger than the buns, as they tend to shrink during cooking. Pressing a small indentation in the center before cooking helps prevent bulging, leading to perfectly shaped sliders.
Cooking the patties in a cast-iron skillet is an excellent choice for achieving that crispy exterior while keeping the interior juicy. You want your skillet to be hot enough that the patties sizzle upon contact but not so hot that they burn. A medium-high heat should do the trick—around 375°F. Keep an eye on the edges; they should look brown and slightly crispy before you smash them.
Creating the Ultimate Guacamole
The key to a great guacamole is ensuring that your avocados are perfectly ripe. They should yield slightly to pressure when squeezed gently. If you're making the guacamole ahead of time, consider storing it with the pit in the bowl and covering it tightly with plastic wrap to minimize oxidation. Adding a bit of lime juice not only enhances flavor but also helps preserve the vibrant green color of the avocado.
Feel free to customize your guacamole by adding ingredients such as minced garlic for additional flavor, or diced jalapeños if you want some heat. Experimenting with different herbs, like fresh basil or chives, can also provide a unique twist that pairs well with the sliders. The balance of acidity from the lime and the creaminess of the avocado makes for a refreshing contrast to the savory sliders.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
For the Sliders
- 1 pound ground beef
- 6 slider buns
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Guacamole
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro (optional)
Once you have everything prepared, you're ready to start cooking!
Instructions
This straightforward guide will walk you through preparing your delicious Guacamole Smash Sliders.
Make the Guacamole
In a bowl, mash the avocados and mix in the diced onion, tomato, lime juice, and salt. Adjust seasoning to taste. Set aside in the refrigerator to chill.
Prepare the Slider Patties
In a mixing bowl, season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Form into 6 equal-sized patties, making a slight indentation in the center.
Cook the Sliders
Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned. Smash each patty down with a spatula for an even cook.
Assemble the Sliders
Place the cooked patties on slider buns, generously top with chilled guacamole, and any additional toppings you desire. Serve immediately.
Enjoy your sliders while they're fresh and warm!
Pro Tips
- Consider adding jalapeños or bacon to the patties for an added kick. You can also serve with tortilla chips and extra guacamole on the side.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These Guacamole Smash Sliders can be prepped in advance, making them a convenient option for busy hosts. You can prepare the patties and guacamole the day before your gathering. Store the patties in the refrigerator, layered between parchment paper to avoid sticking, and the guacamole in an airtight container. Just be sure to press plastic wrap onto the surface of the guacamole to further limit air exposure until you’re ready to serve.
If you have leftovers, store the cooked sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat the patties in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes per side. Freshly whipped guacamole will maintain its best quality when freshly made, but you can store any leftovers in the fridge for a day; just give it a good stir before serving.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
To elevate your slider experience further, consider serving them with a variety of toppings on the side—like pickled jalapeños, shredded lettuce, or even a creamy chipotle sauce. This allows your guests to customize their burgers to their liking, making them interactive and fun. You could also serve them with sweet potato fries or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.
For those looking for a different flavor profile, try swapping the beef for ground turkey or chicken, as they work well with guacamole, too. To make them vegetarian, use black beans or chickpeas as a base for the patties, mixing them with breadcrumbs and spices to achieve the right consistency. Remember that cooking times may vary with different proteins, so monitor them closely to avoid overcooking.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works great, but it can be slightly drier, so consider adding some moisture such as salsa.
→ How can I make these sliders vegetarian?
You can substitute the beef with black bean patties or grilled vegetable patties for a tasty vegetarian version.
→ What can I serve with the sliders?
They pair nicely with potato wedges, a fresh salad, or chips and salsa.
→ Can I make the guacamole ahead of time?
Yes, but it's best consumed the same day. If preparing in advance, add lime juice to minimize browning.
Guacamole Smash Sliders
I absolutely love making Guacamole Smash Sliders for gatherings and casual dinners. Combining creamy guacamole with perfectly cooked sliders creates an explosion of flavors that never fails to impress. The sliders are not only easy to prepare but also customizable, allowing us to mix in our favorite ingredients to create unique versions. Whether it's game night or a simple family meal, these sliders are always a hit and a delightful way to elevate the classic burger experience.
Created by: Tina
Recipe Type: International Dish Inspirations
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 sliders
What You'll Need
For the Sliders
- 1 pound ground beef
- 6 slider buns
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Guacamole
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro (optional)
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mash the avocados and mix in the diced onion, tomato, lime juice, and salt. Adjust seasoning to taste. Set aside in the refrigerator to chill.
In a mixing bowl, season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Form into 6 equal-sized patties, making a slight indentation in the center.
Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned. Smash each patty down with a spatula for an even cook. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
Place the cooked patties on slider buns, generously top with chilled guacamole, and any additional toppings you desire. Serve immediately.
Extra Tips
- Consider adding jalapeños or bacon to the patties for an added kick. You can also serve with tortilla chips and extra guacamole on the side.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 16g