Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders

Mini burgers with savory Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders bring a unique twist to traditional sliders. These bite-sized delights are perfect for gatherings, parties, or even a cozy night in. With the rich flavor of bacon jam combined with melted American cheese, they are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Sliders
• How to Make Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders
• Step 1: Prepare the Beef Patties
• Step 2: Make the Bacon Jam
• Step 3: Cook the Patties
• Step 4: Toast the Slider Buns
• Step 5: Assemble the Sliders
• How to Serve Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders
• Casual Gatherings
• Game Day Celebrations
• Formal Events
• Kid-Friendly Options
• How to Perfect Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders
• Best Side Dishes for Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders
• Reheating Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders ahead of time?
• What type of cheese works best with these sliders?
• How do I customize my Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders?
• What are some great side dishes for these sliders?
• Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of savory bacon jam and juicy beef creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or game days; everyone loves sliders!
• Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe beginner-friendly and quick to prepare.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as appetizers or main dishes; these sliders fit any occasion.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare the bacon jam in advance for an easy assembly on the day of serving.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders is straightforward, especially with the right tools. Gather your kitchen essentials before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Griddle or skillet
• Baking pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing spoon
• Jar for storage

Importance of Each Tool

• Griddle or Skillet: Provides even heat for cooking patties perfectly.
• Baking Pan: Ideal for flattening ground chuck and seasoning it evenly.
• Sharp Knife: Makes chopping ingredients like onion and garlic quick and safe.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

• 2 pounds 80/20 ground chuck
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 pound bacon, chopped
• 1 white onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 6-9 slices American cheese
• 12 slider buns
• Wagyu tallow or cooking spray

How to Make Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Patties

Flatten ground chuck in a baking pan. Season evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Refrigerate until ready to cook.

Step 2: Make the Bacon Jam

In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crisp. Remove bacon and discard half of the rendered grease. Add diced onion and cook for 10 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes. Return cooked bacon to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes. Add brown sugar, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup. Simmer mixture for 10-15 minutes until thickened. Transfer to a jar for use.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

Heat a griddle or skillet to medium heat and spray with wagyu tallow or cooking spray. Cook the patties on one side for 4–6 minutes. Season the exposed side with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before flipping. After flipping, add a slice of American cheese and cook for 2 additional minutes.

Step 4: Toast the Slider Buns

Toast slider buns on the griddle or skillet until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble the Sliders

Assemble sliders by placing patties onto the bottom halves of the buns. Add a generous portion of bacon jam on top of each patty. Cover with the top halves of the buns. Slice each slider and serve warm.

These Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders will be a hit at your next event! Enjoy every savory bite!

How to Serve Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders

Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders are a delightful addition to any gathering. They can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience and cater to different tastes.

Casual Gatherings

• Family-style platter: Arrange the sliders on a large platter for easy access, allowing guests to help themselves.
• Slider bar: Set up a slider bar with an array of toppings like pickles, jalapeños, and extra sauces for a customizable experience.

Game Day Celebrations

• Mini bowls of dipping sauces: Offer ranch, BBQ, or spicy mayo in small bowls for guests to dip their sliders.
• Pair with chips: Serve with crispy potato chips or tortilla chips for a crunchy side that complements the sliders.

Formal Events

• Elegant serving tray: Use a decorative serving tray to present the sliders, garnished with fresh herbs or lettuce leaves.
• Gourmet toothpicks: Secure each slider with a fancy toothpick to add sophistication and make them easier to grab.

Kid-Friendly Options

• Serve with fruit skewers: Add colorful fruit skewers alongside the sliders for a refreshing touch kids will enjoy.
• Mini dessert pairing: Complement the meal with mini desserts like brownies or cupcakes for a sweet finish.

How to Perfect Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders

Making perfect Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders requires attention to detail. Here are some essential tips:

• Bold seasoning: Don’t shy away from seasoning your burger patties well; it enhances flavor immensely.
• Quality bacon: Use high-quality bacon for the jam as it contributes significantly to the overall taste.
• Cheese melt: Cover the patties after adding cheese; this helps it melt evenly and creates a gooey texture.
• Fresh buns: Choose soft, fresh slider buns for optimal taste and texture; stale buns can ruin the experience.
• Rest before serving: Let the assembled sliders rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders

When serving Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders, pairing them with delicious sides elevates your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these fries offer a sweet contrast to savory sliders.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the bacon jam.
3. Potato Salad: Classic potato salad provides creaminess that complements the flavor profile of your sliders.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn is sweet and juicy, making it a perfect side dish for summer gatherings.
5. Pickle Chips: Serve dill pickle chips as they add acidity and crunch that pairs well with burgers.
6. Macaroni Salad: A chilled macaroni salad offers comfort and creaminess alongside your hearty sliders.
7. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans bring warmth and depth to your meal, making it more satisfying.
8. Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette provides freshness that balances out heavier flavors from the sliders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect outcome.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your patties can lead to bland burgers. Always ensure even seasoning on both sides before cooking.
• Overcooking the bacon: Cooking bacon too long results in a dry texture. Aim for crispiness but remove it while it still has some chew.
• Neglecting the buns: Toasting your slider buns adds flavor and prevents sogginess. Don’t skip this step for an enjoyable bite!
• Not letting the jam cool: Using hot bacon jam can make sliders messy. Allow it to cool slightly before assembling your sliders.
• Crowding the cooking surface: Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sliders on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat sliders on a microwave-safe plate for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping once until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders that may help you while preparing this delicious dish.

Can I make Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the bacon jam and patties in advance, then assemble and cook just before serving.

What type of cheese works best with these sliders?

American cheese melts beautifully, but feel free to experiment with cheddar or gouda for added flavor.

How do I customize my Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders?

You can add toppings like pickles, jalapeños, or avocado slices. Adjust the bacon jam’s sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup used.

What are some great side dishes for these sliders?

Serve your sliders with crispy fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as substitutes for a lighter version of these sliders.

Final Thoughts

Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders are not just mouthwatering; they also offer incredible versatility. Perfect for gatherings or casual nights at home, these mini burgers can be tailored to suit your taste. Enjoy mixing flavors and toppings that reflect your style!