Beef Cheddar Sliders

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Pickles (for topping)
• Sliced onions (for topping)
• Mustard, ketchup, or your favorite sauces (for topping)
• Lettuce and tomato (optional for topping)

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix in the melted butter and egg to the yeast mixture. In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt, then gradually add it to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. While the dough is rising, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
6. Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a small ball and place them on a greased baking sheet.
7. Cover the buns with a cloth and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
8. Brush the tops of the buns with the egg wash. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before slicing each bun horizontally.
10. Spoon a generous amount of the beef and cheese mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with your desired toppings and place the top half of the bun on.