Denver Nuggets cheesy sliders A Quick Game Day Recipe Inspired by the Denver Nuggets!

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Denver Nuggets Cheesy Sliders

When the game’s on and you’re hosting friends to cheer for your favorite NBA team, especially the Denver Nuggets, you need food that’s both delicious and convenient. These cheesy sliders are the perfect solution – small yet satisfying, easy to make in batches, and absolutely packed with flavor. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing recipe that will become your go-to for game nights and casual gatherings!

The Appeal of Game Day Sliders

Sliders have become a staple of American sports gatherings for good reason. These mini-burgers offer the perfect combination of convenience and satisfaction – they’re easy to eat while watching the game, require minimal utensils, and can be customized to suit different tastes. The smaller size also means guests can enjoy other snacks without feeling overwhelmed.

For Denver Nuggets fans, these blue and gold-inspired sliders (with optional blue cheese and golden caramelized onions) honor the team’s colors while delivering championship-worthy flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a playoff party or just enjoying a regular season game, these sliders will have everyone cheering.

Ingredients

For the Patties:

• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For Assembly:

• 12 slider buns (preferably King’s Hawaiian rolls)
• 12 slices sharp cheddar cheese (or blue cheese for Nuggets theme)
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 tablespoon pickle relish
• Lettuce leaves (optional)
• Sliced tomatoes (optional)
• Sliced pickles (optional)

For the Special Nuggets Sauce:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Equipment Needed

• Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottom pan
• Spatula
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons
• Serving platter

Preparation Denver Nuggets Cheesy Sliders

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined – overmixing can make the patties tough. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and form them into patties slightly larger than the slider buns, as they will shrink during cooking.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

For that golden Nuggets touch, caramelize the onions. Heat a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and brown sugar, then cook slowly for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become soft and golden brown. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Special Nuggets Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, honey, and cayenne pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until needed.

Step 4: Cook the Slider Patties

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties in batches if necessary, about 2-3 minutes per side for medium doneness. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty to melt. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

Step 5: Prepare the Buns

While the patties are cooking, prepare the buns. You can either:

• Toast them lightly in the oven for a few minutes
• Place them cut-side down in the same pan after cooking the patties to soak up those delicious juices

Step 6: Assemble the Sliders

Spread the bottom half of each bun with the Special Nuggets Sauce. Add a lettuce leaf if desired, then the cheesy patty, followed by caramelized onions, tomato slice, and pickles if using. Spread a small amount of ketchup and mustard on the top bun and close the slider.

Step 7: Serve Game-Day Style

Arrange the sliders on a platter in the shape of the Denver Nuggets logo, or simply line them up for easy grabbing. Serve immediately while still warm.

Pro Tips for Championship-Worthy Sliders

1. Make a Dimple: Press your thumb into the center of each patty before cooking to prevent it from puffing up in the middle.
2. Don’t Press Down: Avoid pressing down on the patties while cooking, as this releases the flavorful juices.
3. Cheese Varieties: While cheddar is classic, try blue cheese for a Nuggets blue color theme, or pepper jack for extra spice.
4. Bun Options: Slider-specific buns work best, but dinner rolls or even halved brioche buns can work in a pinch.
5. Prep Ahead: You can form the patties up to 24 hours in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
6. Heat Retention: If making these for a party, you can keep them warm in a low-temperature oven (about 200°F) for up to 30 minutes.

Make It a Complete Game Day Spread

These sliders pair perfectly with other game day favorites:

• Loaded Denver-style potato skins with green chilies and cheese
• Blue and gold tortilla chips with homemade guacamole
• Mile-high nachos with layers of cheese, beans, and jalapeños
• Basketball-shaped cheese ball rolled in crushed Doritos
• Golden honey-mustard chicken wings