Step-by-Step Method
Prep your baking sheet
5 mins
Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange your butter crackers in a single layer, flat side down, leaving a tiny bit of space between each one so they crisp up evenly.
Take a small pinch of your seasoned ground beef (about the size of a marble or a small cherry) and roll it into a ball, then flatten it slightly into a mini patty. Place one mini patty directly onto the center of each cracker. Pro Tip: Keep the patties relatively thin so they cook through rapidly before the cracker over-toasts.
The initial bake
10-12 mins
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You will see the mini beef patties shrink slightly, turn beautifully browned, and release their juices directly onto the buttery crackers.
The cheese blanket
2 mins
Carefully remove the pan from the oven. Pinch a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese and place it directly over each cooked beef patty. Return the pan to the oven for 2 more minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbling, and cascading over the sides of the beef.
Serving and Upgrades
Let the bites cool for two to three minutes before serving so the cheese sets and the crackers regain their maximum crunch. They are spectacular on their own, but you can effortlessly elevate them into a party platter by placing a tiny drop of yellow mustard, ketchup, or a pickle slice right on top of the melted cheese of each bite. They offer all the satisfying, savory goodness of a gourmet slider in a single, effortless mouthful.
