Who doesn’t love a slider packed with flavor and nestled in a soft, slightly sweet bun? King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Sliders take that experience to the next level with their irresistible combination of sweet and salty. These sliders are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s game day, a quick weeknight dinner, or a party spread that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Sliders Recipes
These King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Sliders are easy to make and deliver a perfect bite of tender, sweet, and salty goodness. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing a family meal, this recipe guarantees a crowd-pleasing dish. Let’s get started with the ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients
For sliders:
- 12 King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Slider Rolls (halved)
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For toppings:
- 6 slices of sharp cheddar cheese (cut into halves)
- 12 pickle slices
- 12 tomato slices (thinly sliced)
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
For sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- Pinch of paprika
For finishing:
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Meat
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix thoroughly but avoid overworking the meat to keep the patties tender.
- Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions. Shape each into small patties about the size of the slider rolls.
Step 2: Cook the Patties
- Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil if needed to prevent sticking.
- Cook the patties for 3–4 minutes per side, or until they are browned and cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F for beef or 165°F for turkey.
- During the last minute, place a half slice of cheddar cheese on each patty to melt.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and paprika.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as preferred. Keep this sauce refrigerated until ready to assemble.
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
- Place the bottom halves of the King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Slider Rolls on a large serving platter.
- Spread a thin layer of the prepared sauce on each roll.
- Add a layer of shredded lettuce, followed by a burger patty with melted cheese.
- Top the patties with a slice of tomato and pickle, then spread more sauce on the top half of the slider roll.
- Place the top buns over the fillings, gently pressing down.
Step 5: Add the Final Touches
- Lightly brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle sesame seeds for an added crunch if you prefer.
- Place the assembled sliders on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes, or until the rolls are slightly toasted and warm.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Pro Tip Table:
| Pro Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Custom Proteins | Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a customized flavor. |
| Make-Ahead Sauce | Prepare the sauce a day in advance and refrigerate it for deeper, blended flavors. |
| Gluten-Free | Use gluten-free slider rolls if required to suit dietary preferences without affecting taste. |
Ingredients
Crafting these King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Sliders is simple and fun, requiring just a handful of ingredients. Here’s everything we need to get started:
For The Sliders
- 1 package of King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Slider Buns
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey (your choice of protein)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 6 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 medium-sized tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 6-8 dill pickle slices
For The Sauce
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Optional Toppings
- Crispy bacon slices
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Caramelized onions
- Jalapeño slices for a spicy kick
- Avocado slices
Feel free to mix and match your favorite toppings to create the slider of your dreams! These sliders are endlessly customizable to suit any palate or occasion.
Tools And Equipment
Creating King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Sliders requires a few essential tools to ensure the preparation process is seamless. Below, we’ve listed the must-have equipment to help you achieve perfection.
Essential Kitchen Tools
Here’s what we’ll need:
- Mixing bowls: For combining and seasoning the ground beef or turkey.
- Measuring spoons: To accurately measure spices, sauces, and condiments.
- Kitchen scale (optional): To portion meat patties evenly for consistent sliders.
- Cutting board: For slicing veggies and other toppings.
- Chef’s knife: Sharp enough for prepping ingredients like tomatoes, lettuce, or onions.
- Griddle or skillet: For cooking the patties to perfection.
- Spatula: For flipping and handling slider patties.
- Small whisk or spoon: To mix the signature sauce until smooth.
- Baking sheet: If toasting pretzel buns in the oven for added flavor and texture.
- Parchment paper: To prevent sticking while toasting or assembling the sliders.
Optional but Recommended
- Burger press: Ensures uniform patty thickness for even cooking.
- Toothpicks: Keeps the sliders intact, especially if adding extra toppings like bacon or avocado during serving.
- Lettuce drying spinner: Helps remove extra water from shredded lettuce for a crisp, fresh bite.
- Food processor (optional): Speeds up chopping or grating tasks for toppings.
Equipment and Usage Overview
Here’s a quick reference table for ease of use:
| Tool/Equipment | Usage |
|---|---|
| Mixing bowls | Season meat, mix sauce, and combine spices |
| Measuring spoons | Accurately measure spices and condiments |
| Cutting board & knife | Prep veggies and toppings |
| Griddle or skillet | Cook patties evenly |
| Spatula | Flip patties and handle cooked meat safely |
| Baking sheet | Toast pretzel buns or bake extra toppings |
| Toothpicks | Hold sliders together, especially stacked |
Having these tools on hand ensures a smooth cooking process, allowing us to focus on building the ultimate King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Sliders.
Directions
Let’s bring the flavorsome King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Sliders to life step by step. Follow these easy-to-understand instructions and enjoy the perfect combination of savory and sweet with every bite.
Prep The Ingredients
- Slice and dice all fresh toppings like tomatoes and onions into thin slices for layering.
- Wash and pat dry the shredded lettuce with a paper towel to keep it crisp.
- If using optional toppings like jalapeño slices or avocado, slice them into thin, manageable pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef or turkey with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Mix until evenly distributed.
Tip: For evenly sized patties, use a kitchen scale to portion out the meat.
- Optional Topping Checklist:
- Bacon: Cook and crumble or leave as full strips.
- Sautéed mushrooms: Sauté with a light drizzle of olive oil.
- Caramelized onions: Cook over medium heat with butter until golden brown.
Prepare The Sauce
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the following until smooth:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- Optional: 1 teaspoon honey for a touch of sweetness.
- Taste the sauce and adjust quantities to suit your preference.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
“This sauce is the ultimate enhancer for the sliders—it’s creamy and tangy with just the right balance!”
Assemble The Sliders
- Using King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Slider Buns, slice each horizontally but leave them hinged for easy assembly. Toast lightly if preferred.
- On the bottom half, spread a thin layer of the prepared sauce.
- Layer each slider with:
- A patty (cooked as per instructions below).
- 1 slice of sharp cheddar cheese or your favorite melty cheese.
- Toppings of your choice, such as pickles, tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and optional additions like bacon or jalapeños.
- Spread a small dollop of sauce on the top bun and gently press it down to keep everything in place.
Cook The Sliders
- Heat a large griddle or skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of neutral oil or butter.
- Form the seasoned meat mixture into 8 evenly-sized patties, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Place patties on the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F for ground beef or 165°F for turkey.
| Meat Type | Internal Temperature | Cook Time Per Side |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 160°F | 2-3 minutes |
| Ground Turkey | 165°F | 2-3 minutes |
- Once flipped, add a slice of sharp cheddar or cheese of your choice on top to melt.
- Remove cooked patties and let them rest for 2-3 minutes before assembly.
Pro Tip: Use a burger press for uniform thickness and even cooking.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing these King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Sliders in advance is a breeze and perfect for saving time during busy occasions like game days or parties. Here’s how we can effectively make each component ahead to streamline the process:
Preparing the Patties in Advance
- Form the ground beef or turkey patties as described in the recipe, ensuring even thickness.
- Place parchment paper between layers of patties to avoid sticking.
- Store them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the patties for up to 24 hours or freeze them for up to 3 months if prepping well ahead.
When ready to cook, defrost the frozen patties in the refrigerator overnight.
Making the Sauce Ahead
- Whisk together all the sauce ingredients (mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, ketchup, and optional honey).
- Pour the sauce into a sealed jar or container.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Just stir before use, and it’s ready to drizzle or spread on the sliders for that perfect tangy burst of flavor.
Pre-Slicing Vegetables and Toppings
- Slice tomatoes, pickles, lettuce, and other desired toppings.
- For added freshness, store each vegetable in separate airtight containers lined with a damp paper towel.
- Prep these up to 1-2 days before assembling the sliders.
Sliced toppings stay crisp and fresh when stored correctly.
Storing King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Slider Buns
- Keep the buns sealed in their original packaging or transfer them to a ziplock bag.
- Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
Simply warm them in the oven for a few minutes if they’ve been frozen.
Assembly on the Day
On the event day, reheat the patties on a skillet or griddle, toast the slider buns, and assemble everything as per the recipe. Using these make-ahead tips ensures we spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying these delectable sliders with our loved ones.
Quick Reference Table for Storage Times
| Component | Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Patties (refrigerated) | Airtight container/plastic wrap | Up to 24 hours |
| Patties (frozen) | Airtight container/plastic wrap | Up to 3 months |
| Sauce | Sealed jar/container | Up to 4 days |
| Sliced vegetables | Airtight containers with damp towel | Up to 2 days |
| Pretzel buns (room temp) | Original packaging/ziplock bag | Up to 2 days |
| Pretzel buns (frozen) | Ziplock bag | Up to 1 month |
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Sliders, how we serve them can elevate the dish to a whole new level. These versatile sliders pair perfectly with a variety of sides and beverages, making them a crowd-pleasing favorite for any event. Here are some Serving Suggestions to enhance your experience:
1. Pair with Crowd-Pleasing Sides
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The savory-sweet sliders beautifully complement the caramelized flavor of roasted or fried sweet potatoes. Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a bold twist.
- Classic Potato Chips: Serve with crunchy salted chips for a timeless combo that never gets old.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw balances the richness of the sliders. Use red cabbage for an added pop of color.
- Pickled Vegetables: Set out pickled cucumbers, carrots, or red onions for an extra zing that complements the flavors of the dish.
- Fresh Green Salad: A simple leafy salad with a balsamic vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
2. Create a Slider Bar for Entertaining
For parties, set up a DIY slider bar and let guests customize their sliders. Arrange toppings and sauces in small bowls with serving spoons for easy access.
Slider Bar Essentials
| Category | Options |
|---|---|
| Toppings | Crispy bacon, caramelized onions, lettuce, sliced tomatoes, pickled jalapeños, sautéed mushrooms |
| Cheeses | Sharp cheddar, provolone, pepper jack, Swiss |
| Sauces | Spicy mayo, Dijon mustard, barbecue sauce, chipotle aioli |
| Extras | Avocado slices, fried eggs, crispy onions, hot sauce |
Encourage guests to mix and match for a fun, interactive dining experience.
3. Beverage Pairings
Pairing your King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Sliders with the right drink enhances the flavors and completes the meal.
- Sodas or Lemonade: A chilled, fizzy drink like cola or homemade lemonade cuts through the richness.
- Craft Beer: A malty amber ale or a crisp pilsner is an excellent companion to the sliders’ sweet and savory profile.
- Cocktails: Serve a tangy margarita, a smoky whiskey sour, or a refreshing mojito for something extra special.
- Mocktails: Non-alcoholic drinks like a fizzy lime soda or herbal iced tea satisfy all your guests.
4. Best Occasions for Serving
These sliders shine at various gatherings. Here’s how to tailor them to the occasion:
| Occasion | Serving Tip |
|---|---|
| Game Day | Serve with buffalo wings, loaded nachos, and dipping sauces for a hearty game-day feast. |
| Weeknight Dinner | Make it a meal with a green salad and roasted vegetables for a quick, balanced dinner. |
| Parties & Potlucks | Include a mix of slider options and set up a slider bar for an unforgettable spread. |
| Outdoor BBQs | Grill the patties and sliders outdoors for a smoky, char-grilled flavor. |
5. Presentation Tips
- Arrange sliders on a wooden board or large platter for visual appeal.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
- For easy serving, secure each slider with a wooden toothpick. This keeps them intact and mess-free.
By following these Serving Suggestions, we can turn our King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Sliders into a centerpiece dish that satisfies everyone’s cravings and fits any occasion beautifully.
Storage And Reheating Tips
Keeping our King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Sliders fresh and flavorful requires proper storage and reheating techniques. Whether you have leftovers or are preparing sliders in advance, follow these tips for the best results.
Storing the Sliders
- Separate Components: To maintain the integrity of the sliders, store the slider patties, buns, sauce, and toppings separately whenever possible. This prevents sogginess from the sauce and toppings.
- Refrigerate Properly:
- Place cooked patties in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
- Store buns in their original packaging or transfer them to a zip-top bag to keep them soft.
- Keep shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and other fresh toppings in a separate container lined with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture.
- Label and Date: Always label containers with the storage date. The sliders are best consumed within 3 to 4 days for optimal taste and quality.
Freezing Patties
For longer storage:
- Allow cooked patties to cool completely. Place a layer of parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking.
- Store the patties in a freezer-safe container or zip-top freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat the sliders carefully to restore their original taste and texture. Here’s how to do it:
| Component | Reheating Method | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Slider Patties | Skillet/Griddle: Heat over medium heat for 2-3 mins | Add a splash of water and cover to prevent drying out. |
| Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds | Wrap in a damp paper towel to lock in moisture. | |
| Buns | Oven: Preheat to 350°F, warm for 3-5 mins | Wrap buns in foil to keep them soft. |
| Microwave: Heat on low power for 15-20 seconds | Avoid overheating to prevent the buns from hardening. | |
| Entire Assembled Sliders | Oven: Preheat to 350°F, warm for 8-10 mins wrapped in foil | This ensures even heating without sogginess. |
Pro Tips
- Avoid reheating fresh toppings like lettuce or tomatoes, as they can wilt or become mushy. Add these after reheating the patties and buns.
- If you’re reheating sliders with cheese, cover the patties loosely to encourage the cheese to melt without sticking.
- Reheat only the portions you plan to eat immediately to preserve the freshness of any remaining sliders.
Following these storage and reheating techniques ensures your King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Sliders remain as delicious and satisfying as when freshly made.
Conclusion
King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Sliders bring together irresistible flavors, endless customization options, and the perfect balance of sweet and savory. These sliders aren’t just a meal—they’re an experience that elevates any gathering or weeknight dinner. With their versatile ingredients, simple preparation, and crowd-pleasing appeal, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite in our recipe rotation. Let’s get creative, share the joy, and savor every bite of these delicious sliders.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What makes King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Slider Buns unique?
King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Slider Buns combine soft, sweet bread with a salty pretzel-flavored crust, offering a unique balance of taste and texture that elevates any slider recipe.
2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for the sliders?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative to ground beef. It can be seasoned the same way and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for juicy and flavorful patties.
3. What ingredients are needed for the slider sauce?
The slider sauce is made from mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, ketchup, and optional honey for a hint of sweetness. You can adjust these ingredients to fit your taste.
4. Can I prepare the sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties, sauce, and toppings in advance. Store them in separate, airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness until assembly and cooking.
5. How should I store leftover sliders?
Store leftover slider patties, buns, and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze the patties and reheat when needed for best results.
6. How do I reheat sliders without compromising quality?
Reheat patties in a skillet or microwave until fully warmed. For buns, lightly toast them to restore texture. Assembled sliders can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
7. What toppings can I use to customize my sliders?
You can add crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, jalapeño slices, avocado, or different cheeses to customize your sliders and create unique flavor profiles.
8. Can I make the sliders gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Slider Buns with gluten-free slider buns and ensure any sauces or seasonings used are labeled gluten-free.
9. What sides pair well with the sliders?
Crispy sweet potato fries, classic potato chips, coleslaw, pickled vegetables, and fresh green salads are great sides to serve with King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Sliders.
10. Are King’s Hawaiian Pretzel Sliders suitable for parties?
Absolutely! These sliders are perfect for parties, game days, BBQs, or casual dinners. Try setting up a DIY slider bar so guests can customize their own sliders.