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Savory Mini Hot Dog Sliders Easy Recipe with Caramelized Onions

mini hot dog sliders - featured image

Glossy, tender buns hugging juicy mini hot dogs topped with soft, sweet caramelized onions create a perfect handheld comfort snack. Quick and easy to make, these sliders are perfect for any occasion and loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 mini hot dog sausages (about 8 ounces / 225 grams)
  • 12 soft mini slider buns (brioche-style recommended)
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Mustard or ketchup (optional, for serving)
  • Shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Peel and slice 2 large yellow onions thinly (about 1/8 inch thick).
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and stir to coat them in the fat.
  3. Cook onions slowly for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent burning, until deep golden brown, soft, and sticky. Splash a little water if pan looks dry.
  4. Near the end, stir in 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
  5. Cook mini hot dogs in another skillet or grill pan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, turning frequently until slightly charred and heated through. Alternatively, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
  6. Slice slider buns if not pre-sliced. Warm them in the oven or on a skillet for 2-3 minutes until soft and slightly toasted.
  7. Assemble sliders by placing a mini hot dog inside each bun, topping generously with caramelized onions. Add mustard or ketchup if desired. For cheese lovers, add a slice of cheddar on the hot dog before onions.
  8. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

For faster onion caramelization, slice onions thinner or add a pinch of sugar early on, but slow cooking yields best flavor. Toast buns lightly to prevent sogginess. Season onions and hot dogs with salt and pepper for best taste. Vegetarian and gluten-free substitutions are easy to make.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini hot dog sliders, caramelized onions, easy sliders, game day snacks, party food, quick recipe, savory sliders