National Slider Day rolls around in the second week of May each year, but there’s never a bad time to talk about the perfect 4-bite burger! These mini sandwiches are ideal for parties, cookouts, or when you’re just in the mood for a little variety. Instead of one big burger, why not serve two or three sliders and mix it up? My Whiskey BBQ Beef Slider recipe is a crowd favorite—and it’s so easy, made right in the slow cooker.
So what’s a slider anyway?
If you’re wondering what makes a slider a slider, you’re not alone. The term originally referred to small, greasy burgers that “slid” down easily, and many say it all began in Wichita, Kansas, thanks to a man named Walter Anderson. He co-founded White Castle in 1921, where their iconic onion-topped sliders sold for just five cents. These days, they go for just over $1.00—but hey, still a deal for a bite of burger history! If you liked that little tidbit of history, make sure to check out my Southwest Cheeseburger Slider recipe, too!
Whiskey BBQ Beef Sliders: Easy, Saucy, and Made in the Slow Cooker
When I made this for the family, everyone went crazy for them. I have some hunters in my life who even suggested trying them with venison! By the way, if you like venison or have any hunters in your circle, you’ll love my Hunter’s Pie recipe. You can get that one and lots of other sweet and savory pie recipes in my new cookbook, My Life in Pies: Sweet and Savory Recipes Inspired by Family and Friends.
Why I Love this Slow Cooker Slider Recipe
First of all, it’s super low effort—great for busy or lazy days. These bite-size burgers are sooo good with sandwich pickles (oh yeah!). And they make amazing leftovers, too. Full disclosure: My recipe calls for about a cup of barbecue sauce. I always add extra—more like 3 or 4 cups. That’s the beauty of home cooking… you can make it just the way you like it best!
Homemade BBQ Sauce is the Perfect Finishing Touch
Let me tell you—I'm a huge barbecue fan. The more sauce, the better! This slow cooker recipe is one of those magical “set it and forget it” meals. These easy homemade sliders come out tender, juicy, and packed with flavor thanks to a little whiskey kick and your favorite BBQ sauce. If you don’t already have a favorite—or if you love trying new recipes—definitely give my homemade barbecue sauce recipe a go. It’s rich, sweet, and slightly spicy. You will not regret it!
Instant Pot® and Slow Cooker Recipes Your Whole Family will Love
Whether it’s for a yummy Sunday dinner or a make-ahead weeknight meal, I’m all about that slow cooker life. Here are a few of my favorite Instant Pot and slow cooker-friendly recipes. I hope you love them as much as I do!
No-Bake Pumpkin Mousse Parfait with Gingersnap Cookies➝— okay, this one isn’t in the slow cooker, but it’s a no-fuss fave!
So tell me—which slider are you trying first? If you’ve got a hunter in the family like I do, let me know how it goes with venison!
Whiskey BBQ Beef Slider Recipe
Sliders are such a fun finger food to serve when company is coming over. They’re so versatile, and the options for side dishes are endless! Let’s get this party started—mini burger style!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the beef in your slow cooker. Top with the onions, garlic, barbecue sauce, beer, and spices.
- Cook on low heat for about 8 hours or until the beef is very tender. You want it to be tender enough that you can use a fork to pull the meat apart.
- Remove the beef from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the beef.
- Skim off any extra fat from the slow cooker and place the shredded beef back in to cook on low heat for 30 to 45 minutes.
- Remove the beef and place it in a strainer to allow the excess liquid to drain. If you would like to toss the beef in additional barbecue sauce, do it now. If needed, season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Your beef is ready to use for your sliders!
- Divide the beef on the bottom of your slider buns. Top with the remaining bun pieces and secure the top bun with a toothpick. You will also need a 4-inch toothpick or wooden appetizer skewer to secure your slider once all the toppings are on it.
Notes
Cooking Time: 8½ hours to 2 hours and 45 minutes
