Garlic Butter Steak Sliders Recipe Best for Super Bowl Parties

Written by

kate

Posted on December 17, 2025

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Beef Recipes

December 17, 2025

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Imagine this: The rich, savory aroma of sizzling steak mingling with melting garlic butter, the bread toasting gently until golden, and the sound of a crowd cheering in the background. That’s what fills my kitchen every Super Bowl Sunday, and let me tell you—it’s the kind of smell that stops folks in their tracks. The first time I made these savory garlic butter steak sliders, it was a chilly February afternoon, and my living room was packed with hungry football fans (and a few snack-stealing kids). I was instantly hooked the moment I bit into that first slider—the juicy steak, the garlicky butter seeping into every nook of the bun, and a hint of cheese pulling it all together. I paused, closed my eyes, and just grinned because I knew I’d stumbled on something special.

Growing up, steak was always a big deal in my family. My grandpa would fire up the grill, and we’d all gather around, waiting for that first bite. These sliders take me right back to those backyard cookouts, but with a game-day twist that’s dangerously easy to pull off. Honestly, I wish I’d discovered this combo years ago—garlic butter and steak are a match made in heaven. My family can’t stop sneaking these off the tray before they even hit the table (I can’t blame them; I do the same thing when nobody’s looking). Even my pickiest cousin, who usually passes on red meat, went back for seconds. There’s just something about these sliders that brings everyone together.

Whether you’re looking for the ultimate Super Bowl party snack, a crowd-pleasing potluck addition, or just a way to spoil your crew on a lazy Sunday, these garlic butter steak sliders are pure, nostalgic comfort. They’re the kind of recipe you’ll want to save, share, and make again—because honestly, they feel like a warm hug on a cold day. I’ve tested them (ahem, multiple times, in the name of research), and now they’re a staple for game nights and backyard gatherings. Trust me, you’re going to want to bookmark this one for your next big get-together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate party snack, these garlic butter steak sliders are about to become your new favorite. I’ve made them for everything from family reunions to neighborhood Super Bowl parties, and they always disappear in a flash. Here’s why these sliders stand out from the crowd (and why you’ll want to keep this recipe handy):

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 35 minutes—seriously! Perfect for those days when you need something impressive but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Simple Ingredients: No fancy shopping required. You probably have most of what you need right in your fridge and pantry.
Perfect for Parties: These sliders are bite-sized, easy to serve, and ideal for game days, potlucks, or even a cozy movie night.
Crowd-Pleaser: I’ve yet to meet anyone who can resist them—adults, kids, and even the steak skeptics in my family rave about them.
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of juicy steak, garlicky butter, gooey cheese, and soft buns is ridiculously good. Each bite is packed with flavor and the kind of comfort food satisfaction we all crave.

What makes these garlic butter steak sliders truly special? For one, I use a simple but game-changing technique: basting the steak in garlic butter as it cooks. It’s a little trick I picked up after many (many!) steakhouse visits and it makes all the difference. Instead of just slapping some steak on a bun, this method infuses every bite with rich, buttery flavor. And you know what? You don’t need a grill—just a good skillet or even a grill pan will do the job.

But it’s not just about technique; these sliders are comfort food with a twist. They’re faster and easier than classic steak sandwiches, lighter than heavy subs, and customizable for any crowd. I love that the recipe is flexible—swap in different cheeses, toss on some caramelized onions, or add a spicy aioli if you’re feeling fancy. You get all the steakhouse vibes without the fuss (or the price tag).

Honestly, this is the kind of food that makes people pause, savor, and go back for seconds. If you’re looking to impress guests, satisfy a hungry crew, or just treat yourself, these sliders are a guaranteed win.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This garlic butter steak sliders recipe keeps things simple, using classic ingredients to deliver big flavor and the ultimate party bite. Most are probably sitting in your kitchen right now, and the few that aren’t are easy to grab at any grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Steak:

1 lb (450 g) ribeye steak, thinly sliced (sirloin or New York strip works too; just make sure it’s well-marbled for juiciness)
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (adds a subtle depth; regular paprika is fine too)

For the Garlic Butter:

4 tbsp (57 g) unsalted butter, softened
3 garlic cloves, finely minced (or more if you like it extra garlicky)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (dried works in a pinch)
1/2 tsp onion powder
Pinch of salt

For the Sliders:

12 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls (soft, slightly sweet buns work best)
6 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese (halved to fit the buns; cheddar or Swiss are tasty too!)
2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, for spreading on the buns)
1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional topping)
Pickled jalapeños or banana peppers (optional, for a tangy kick)

Ingredient Tips:

Steak: I usually go for ribeye because it’s tender and flavorful, but sirloin is a solid, budget-friendly choice. If you can, ask your butcher to slice it thin. If not, pop the steak in the freezer for 15-20 minutes first—makes slicing much easier!
Butter: Use real butter for the best taste. Margarine doesn’t quite cut it here.
Cheese: I love provolone for its melt, but if you’re craving something sharper, go with aged cheddar. Smoked gouda is amazing, too.
Buns: Hawaiian rolls are my go-to for sliders—they’re soft and sweet, balancing the garlicky steak perfectly. Any sturdy slider bun will work, though.
Substitutions: For a gluten-free version, use GF rolls. Dairy-free butter and cheese also work here if needed.

Honestly, this recipe is super forgiving. If you want to sneak in some extra toppings, go for it! Caramelized onions, crispy fried shallots, or a swipe of horseradish sauce all taste fantastic. Just don’t skip the garlic butter—it’s the heart and soul of these sliders.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need a fancy kitchen to whip up these garlic butter steak sliders, but a few trusty tools make things smoother. Here’s what I use (and a few alternatives if you’re working with a basic setup):

Large Skillet or Grill Pan: Cast iron is my favorite for a good sear, but any large skillet works. Non-stick pans are fine too (just watch the heat).
Sharp Chef’s Knife: For slicing steak thinly. If your knife is a little dull, sharpen it first—it makes things so much easier.
Cutting Board: Use a sturdy one for slicing steak and prepping toppings.
Medium Mixing Bowl: For combining the garlic butter.
Spatula or Tongs: Tongs make handling steak quick and safe.
Baking Sheet (optional): For warming buns or melting cheese under the broiler.
Small Brush or Spoon: To spread garlic butter on the buns. A butter knife works in a pinch.

If you don’t have a grill pan, no worries—a regular skillet or even an electric griddle does the trick. I’ve made these on everything from a fancy stovetop to a campfire grate (it works, just takes a bit more effort). Clean your cast iron with a little hot water and a scrubber—no soap! For knives, I recommend a quick honing before slicing steak; it’ll make you feel like a pro. And if you’re on a tight budget, there’s no shame in using whatever you have—these sliders are all about flavor, not fuss.

Preparation Method

Prep the Steak:
- Place the steak in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to firm up. This makes slicing much easier and safer.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the steak as thinly as possible (about 1/8 inch or 3 mm). Try to cut against the grain for tenderness.
- Season the steak slices with kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Toss to coat evenly.
Prep tip: If your steak slices are a little thick, pound them gently between parchment sheets with a rolling pin.
Make the Garlic Butter:
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, onion powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Mix thoroughly until smooth and fragrant. Set aside.
Warning: Don’t let the butter get too soft or oily—just room temperature is perfect. The aroma should be garlicky and fresh!
Cook the Steak:
- Heat your skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of the garlic butter to the pan.
- Once the butter sizzles, add the steak slices in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches).
- Sear for 1-2 minutes per side, basting with a little extra garlic butter as the steak cooks. The edges should brown, but don’t overcook—medium rare is best for juiciness.
- Transfer cooked steak to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
Note: Overcrowding leads to steaming, not searing. Work in batches for best results.
Prepare the Buns:
- Preheat your oven broiler (or toaster oven) to high.
- Split the slider buns in half and arrange on a baking sheet, cut side up.
- Brush each bun half with a generous layer of the remaining garlic butter (use it all!).
- Broil for 1-2 minutes, just until the edges are golden and crisp. Watch closely—garlic burns fast!
The kitchen will smell incredible at this point—try not to eat a bun straight off the tray (no judgment if you do).
Assemble the Sliders:
- Spread a thin layer of mayo on the bottom half of each bun, if using.
- Layer steak slices generously onto each bottom bun, piling high.
- Top with half a slice of cheese (or more, if you like it extra melty).
- Add any optional toppings: red onion slices, pickled jalapeños, etc.
- Place the top buns on and press down gently.
Melt the Cheese (Optional):
- Return assembled sliders to the baking sheet. Broil for 1 minute, just until cheese is gooey and bubbly.
- Remove and let cool for 2 minutes before serving.
If your cheese doesn’t melt in time, tent the sliders with foil and let residual heat finish the job.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Arrange sliders on a platter, sprinkle with extra parsley if desired, and watch them disappear!

Personal tip: I always keep a little extra garlic butter on hand for brushing the tops of the buns right before serving. It adds shine, flavor, and a bakery-style finish. If your steak lets out a little juice, drizzle it over the buns—no one will complain about extra flavor!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

After making these garlic butter steak sliders more times than I can count, I’ve picked up a few tricks (and made a few mistakes) that will help you nail them every single time:

Don’t Overcook the Steak: Thin steak cooks lightning fast. Sear over high heat just until browned—usually 1-2 minutes per side. If you cook it too long, it’ll get tough. Trust your instincts; if it smells rich and beefy, it’s done!
Baste with Garlic Butter: This is my secret for deep flavor. Spoon a bit of butter over the steak as it cooks, and don’t be shy—every slice should glisten. If you’re worried about burning the garlic, add half the butter at the start and the rest at the end.
Watch the Broiler: Garlic butter burns quickly, so don’t walk away when toasting the buns or melting the cheese. I’ve scorched a few in my day (it happens to the best of us).
Slice Steak Thinly: Thinner slices mean more tender bites. If your steak is a bit thick, pounding helps. Freezing before slicing is a game changer.
Multitask for Speed: While the steak cooks, prep your buns and toppings. It makes assembly lightning fast when you’re ready to go.
Use Quality Buns: Sliders are only as good as their bread. Soft, slightly sweet buns soak up all that garlic butter without getting soggy.

If you run into trouble, don’t sweat it! Steak a little chewy? Slice thinner next time. Butter too salty? Use unsalted and salt to taste. Cheese not melting? Cover loosely with foil and let the heat do its thing. These sliders are forgiving, and the more you make them, the more you’ll find your groove.

And here’s a lesson I learned the hard way: always double the batch for a big crowd. I once ran out halfway through a Super Bowl party, and the disappointed faces were…memorable. Now I make extras, and there’s never a crumb left.

Variations & Adaptations

One of the best things about garlic butter steak sliders is how easy they are to customize. Here are some of my favorite ways to mix things up, plus a few tweaks for dietary needs and flavor preferences:

Cheese Swap: Not a provolone fan? Try smoked gouda, sharp cheddar, or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Mixing cheeses works great, too!
Low-Carb/Keto: Use mini lettuce leaves as “buns” instead of bread. Butter lettuce or romaine works best, and you still get all the steak and garlic butter goodness.
Gluten-Free: Swap in your favorite gluten-free slider buns. I’ve tried Udi’s and Schär with great results—just toast them to keep them sturdy.
Veggie Version: For a vegetarian twist, use thick portobello mushroom slices instead of steak. Grill or roast them, then assemble as usual with garlic butter and cheese.
Extra Toppings: Caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or crispy fried onions take these to the next level. I love adding a spoonful of horseradish sauce for a little zing.
Spicy Kick: Add thinly sliced jalapeños or a little sriracha mayo for heat. My family loves the balance of garlicky steak and spicy toppings!

If you’ve got an air fryer, you can even crisp up the buns or reheat leftover sliders in a pinch. For another personal favorite, try adding roasted red peppers and a sprinkle of arugula for a “steakhouse slider” vibe—fancy enough for a dinner party, but still oh-so-easy.

Got a dairy allergy in the family? Swap in your favorite dairy-free cheese and vegan butter. I’ve made these for friends with allergies, and they’re still a huge hit. The method is the same—just adjust the cheese and butter to suit your needs.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These garlic butter steak sliders are best served hot and fresh, right off the pan. Here’s how I like to serve and store them for the best results:

Serving Temperature: Serve warm, with cheese just melted and steak juicy. If they cool off, a quick 2-minute trip back in a hot oven perks them right up.
Presentation: Stack sliders on a large platter, sprinkle with extra chopped parsley, and set out with toothpicks for easy grabbing. A side of kettle chips or a veggie tray makes a perfect pairing.
Complementary Dishes: I love serving these with tangy coleslaw, garlic parmesan fries, or a simple green salad. For drinks, ice-cold beer or sparkling lemonade hits the spot.
Storage: Leftover sliders (if you have any!) can be wrapped tightly in foil or stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, pop sliders (still wrapped in foil) in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes, or until warmed through. Air fryer works, too—just a few minutes at 350°F and they’re good as new.
Flavor Over Time: Honestly, these sliders are best fresh, but the garlicky, buttery flavor actually gets even more intense after a night in the fridge. Just don’t expect the buns to be quite as soft after reheating.

Pro tip: If you know you’ll have leftovers, store the steak and buns separately to keep everything at its best. Assemble and reheat just before serving for that just-made feel.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s the scoop on what you’re eating with these garlic butter steak sliders (per slider, approximate):

Calories: 250
Protein: 13g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Sodium: 390mg

The ribeye steak is loaded with iron and protein, while garlic and parsley offer immune-boosting compounds. Choose whole grain buns for extra fiber if you like. For lower-carb or gluten-free diets, lettuce wraps or GF buns do the trick without sacrificing taste. Allergens to watch: dairy (butter and cheese), gluten (buns), and possible cross-contact with nuts or soy if using specialty breads or spreads.

From a wellness perspective, these are a treat—rich, satisfying, and packed with real ingredients. Enjoy in moderation, and don’t be afraid to tweak the recipe for your family’s needs. After all, food should make you feel good inside and out!

Conclusion

These garlic butter steak sliders are the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again. They’re crowd-pleasing, easy to whip up, and packed with the kind of comforting flavor that makes Super Bowl parties unforgettable. Whether you follow the recipe to a T or throw in your own twists (extra cheese, anyone?), you’ll end up with a plate of sliders that disappear faster than you can set them down.

For me, these sliders are more than just a party snack—they’re a little reminder of family gatherings, laughter, and the simple joy of sharing good food with great people. I hope you love them as much as we do! If you try them, let me know in the comments how they turned out, or tag me on social media with your slider creations. And don’t forget to pin this recipe for your next game day or family get-together.

Here’s to more delicious moments, full bellies, and happy memories—one garlicky, buttery slider at a time!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these garlic butter steak sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the steak and prepare the garlic butter up to a day ahead. Store the steak and buns separately, then assemble and toast just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

What cut of steak works best for sliders?

Ribeye is my top pick for its tenderness and flavor, but sirloin or New York strip also work well. Just slice the steak thinly for the juiciest results.

How do I keep the sliders from getting soggy?

Toast the buns with garlic butter before assembling. This creates a barrier that helps keep the bread from soaking up too much juice.

Are there any dairy-free options for this recipe?

Absolutely! Use a plant-based butter and your favorite dairy-free cheese. The method stays the same, and you still get that rich, garlicky flavor.

Can I grill the steak instead of cooking it on the stove?

Yes! Grill thin steak slices over high heat for 1-2 minutes per side, then brush with garlic butter. It adds a delicious smoky flavor perfect for summer gatherings.

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