Zucchini Cheeseburger Sliders

These Zucchini Cheeseburger Sliders are a low-carb, keto-friendly alternative to classic sliders—featuring juicy seasoned beef patties, melted cheddar, and grilled zucchini “buns” for a fun, bite-sized snack or appetizer that’s packed with flavor and nutrients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Zucchini Cheeseburger Sliders are a creative, wholesome take on a traditional favorite. By swapping out regular buns for thick-cut, grilled zucchini rounds, you keep the carbs low without sacrificing taste or texture. These sliders are rich in protein, gluten-free, and perfect for anyone following a keto, Whole30, or low-carb lifestyle. Quick to prepare and ideal for parties or meal prep, they offer all the cheesy, savory satisfaction of a cheeseburger in a fun, healthy format.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices cheddar cheese, cut into small squares
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Toothpicks for assembling

Directions

1. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface.
2. In a bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
3. Form the seasoned beef into small slider-sized patties, about the diameter of your zucchini slices.
4. Grill the patties for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. During the final minute of cooking, top each patty with a square of cheddar cheese to melt.
5. While the patties cook, brush zucchini slices with olive oil and grill them for 1–2 minutes per side, until tender and marked with grill lines.
6. Assemble each slider by placing one grilled zucchini slice on the bottom, topping it with a cheesy beef patty, and finishing with another zucchini slice.
7. Secure each slider with a toothpick and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 sliders
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories: Approximately 180 kcal per slider

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeño slices or mix chili flakes into the beef mixture.
• Bacon Lovers: Add a small piece of crispy bacon on top of each patty.
• Different Cheese: Use provolone, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a new flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for a plant-based ground meat substitute.
• Garnish Ideas: Add a dollop of mustard, ketchup, or a pickle slice for classic burger flair.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 30–45 seconds. Avoid freezing assembled sliders, as the zucchini may become too soft upon thawing. For best results, store components separately and assemble fresh before serving.

FAQs

Can I use another type of ground meat?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or lamb can be used in place of beef.

How do I prevent the zucchini from getting soggy?

Grill the zucchini slices briefly and pat them dry after grilling to reduce moisture.

Are these sliders suitable for a keto diet?

Yes, they are low in carbs and high in protein and fat, making them keto-approved.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prep the patties and zucchini in advance. Assemble just before serving for best texture.

What size should the patties be?

Each patty should match the diameter of the zucchini slices, typically about 2 inches.

Can I cook these indoors?

Yes, use a stovetop grill pan or cast-iron skillet if an outdoor grill isn’t available.

How thick should I slice the zucchini?

Cut into 1/2-inch rounds to hold the structure and mimic mini burger buns.

What side dishes go well with these sliders?

Serve with a green salad, cauliflower tots, or keto coleslaw for a complete meal.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How do I keep the cheese from sliding off the patties?

Add cheese during the last minute of cooking and let it melt directly onto the hot patty before removing from heat.

Conclusion

Zucchini Cheeseburger Sliders are a delicious and health-conscious spin on a classic comfort food. With savory seasoned beef, melty cheese, and nutrient-rich zucchini in place of traditional buns, they’re the perfect solution for low-carb eaters craving a satisfying snack or appetizer. Quick to prepare, easy to customize, and fun to eat, these sliders will be a hit at any gathering or as a meal-prep staple for the week.

Zucchini Cheeseburger Sliders

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These Zucchini Cheeseburger Sliders are a low-carb, keto-friendly alternative to classic sliders—featuring juicy seasoned beef patties, melted cheddar, and grilled zucchini ‘buns’ for a fun, bite-sized snack or appetizer that’s packed with flavor and nutrients.

• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 sliders 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices cheddar cheese, cut into small squares
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Toothpicks for assembling

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Instructions

1. Preheat grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface.
2. In a bowl, season ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form into small slider-sized patties.
3. Grill patties for 2–3 minutes per side until fully cooked. During the last minute, place cheese squares on top to melt.
4. While patties cook, lightly brush zucchini slices with olive oil and grill for 1–2 minutes per side until tender and grill-marked.
5. To assemble, place one grilled zucchini slice on the bottom, top with a cheesy burger patty, and finish with another zucchini slice. Secure with a toothpick.
6. Serve warm as a healthy appetizer, snack, or party platter item.

Notes

• Use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative.
• Add a dollop of mustard or sugar-free ketchup before assembling for extra flavor.
• Best served immediately while warm and melty.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slider
• Calories: 180 kcal
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 45mg