Air Fryer Holten's Smashed Sliders

Air Fryer Holten's Smashed Sliders

Cooking Holten's Smashed Sliders in the air fryer gives you juicy, flavorful mini burgers with crisped, caramelized edges—all hot and ready in under 10 minutes. The air fryer sears these beef sliders beautifully without the need for a greasy skillet, making them a fast, easy choice for meals, appetizers, or party trays.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Juicy Burger Centers With Crispy, Smashed Edges

The air fryer locks in moisture while creating flavorful, crispy edges that mimic traditional smashed burgers.

Faster and Cleaner Than Grilling or Pan Frying

No grease splatter, no flipping on a hot griddle—just quick, even cooking with minimal mess.

Perfect for Game Days, Weeknight Dinners, or Build-Your-Own Sliders Bars

Easy to customize with different buns, cheeses, and toppings.

Cook Straight from Frozen

No thawing necessary—straight from freezer to juicy, hot sliders.

Ingredients

• 4–8 Holten's Smashed Sliders (frozen)

• Optional:

  • Mini buns, cheese slices, pickles, ketchup, mustard, or any of your favorite burger toppings

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and preheat for 3–4 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Smashed Sliders

• Remove frozen sliders from packaging

• Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket, spaced slightly apart

• No oil or spray needed

Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection

• Cook at 400°F for 7–9 minutes, flipping the sliders halfway through

• Sliders are ready when browned on both sides and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C)

Step 4: Cool Slightly & Serve

Let sit for 1–2 minutes before building your sliders—the juices will redistribute for maximum flavor.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

Flip Halfway Through Cooking

Ensures a crispy crust on both sides of the slider.

Avoid Overcrowding the Basket

Space the sliders out to allow proper air circulation for even browning.

Add Cheese in the Last 1–2 Minutes

Place cheese slices on top and air fry for an additional 1–2 minutes to melt perfectly.

Use a Meat Thermometer for Accuracy

Beef sliders should reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safe eating.

What to Serve With Smashed Sliders

Toppings

• Cheddar, American, or Pepper Jack Cheese – Classic melty options

• Pickles, Lettuce, Tomato, Onion – Fresh and crunchy toppings

• Ketchup, Mustard, Mayo, or Special Sauce – Essential condiments

• Bacon, Avocado, or Jalapeños – Gourmet toppings

Side Dishes

• French Fries or Tater Tots – Ultimate burger sides

• Coleslaw or Potato Salad – Cool, creamy contrasts

• Onion Rings or Mozzarella Sticks – Party favorites

• Garden Salad or Grilled Veggies – Fresh, lighter sides

Creative Serving Ideas

• Set Up a Slider Bar With Assorted Toppings and Sauces

• Pair With Sweet Potato Fries and Garlic Aioli for a Fun Twist

• Serve With Milkshakes for the Classic Diner Combo

Storage & Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

Cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

How to Reheat in the Air Fryer

Reheat at 360°F (182°C) for 3–4 minutes until hot and crispy again.

Can You Freeze After Cooking?

Yes—wrap individually and reheat from frozen at 400°F for 6–7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Air Fry Holten's Smashed Sliders Straight from Frozen?

Yes—air frying from frozen gives the best seared, juicy results.

Do I Need to Use Oil or Spray?

No oil is necessary—the beef has enough fat to crisp naturally.

How Do I Know They’re Done?

The sliders will be browned on both sides and reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

Best Air Fryer for Sliders?

Both basket and tray-style air fryers work great—just ensure there's room between sliders for airflow.

Make Holten's Smashed Sliders in the air fryer for juicy, flavorful mini burgers with crispy edges in under 10 minutes. No thawing needed. Full instructions, pro tips, and serving ideas included.