These Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders are a fun twist on the classic burger! Juicy beef patties sit between soft buns and are topped with sweet and savory bacon jam. Yum!
Each bite is packed with flavor, and honestly, who can say no to bacon? These sliders are perfect for parties or movie nights. Easy to make and always a hit!
I love serving them with a side of crispy fries. They disappear fast, so be ready to whip up seconds! Give them a try; you won’t be sorry! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: Soft dinner rolls are key for these sliders. You can use Hawaiian buns for a slightly sweeter flavor or substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free buns if needed.
Ground Beef: I like using 80% lean for a juicy burger. You can swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even use plant-based ground meat like Beyond Meat for a vegetarian version.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to because it melts well and adds rich flavor. American cheese is a great substitute, or try pepper jack for a spicy kick!
Bacon Jam: Store-bought bacon jam saves time, but making your own gives fresh flavor. Feel free to skip the coffee or use a different sweetener like maple syrup. No bacon? Use a veggie jam or a mix of cooked mushrooms for depth.
Onion: Optional, but it adds great texture and flavor. If you want a milder taste, use green onions or leave them out entirely.
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Sliders?
Cooking sliders just right is crucial for juiciness. Here’s how to make sure they turn out perfect:
- Form patties slightly larger than the buns. They’ll shrink a bit while cooking.
- Preheat your skillet or grill before adding the patties. A hot surface will sear and keep moisture in.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Put cheese on during the last minute. This lets it melt beautifully without overcooking the patty.
This technique will help you achieve sliders that are crispy outside and juicy inside, perfect to pair with that flavorful bacon jam!
Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (soft dinner rolls)
- 1.5 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 slices cheddar cheese (or American cheese)
- 1 cup bacon jam (see notes for homemade or store-bought)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped or shredded (optional for topping)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (optional, for toasting buns)
For the Bacon Jam (if making homemade):
- 8 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brewed coffee or strong black tea
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-30 minutes of prep time, plus around 30-40 minutes for cooking and assembling. If you’re making the bacon jam from scratch, allow extra time for simmering. Once assembled, you can serve them right away or let them cool slightly before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Bacon Jam:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, but leave the bacon fat in the pan. Next, add the chopped onion to the bacon fat and cook until it becomes soft and caramelized, which takes about 10-12 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 more minute, just to get that yummy garlic flavor in there. Now, stir in the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, coffee, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you want some heat. Let it simmer gently until it thickens up into a jam-like consistency, which should take about 20-30 minutes. Finally, stir the cooked bacon back into the mixture and mix well. Remove from heat and let it cool.
2. Preparing the Sliders:
While the bacon jam is cooling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease. Now, form the ground beef into 12 small slider patties that are slightly larger than your buns. Season both sides of each patty with salt and black pepper. This part is super important for flavor!
3. Cooking the Patties:
Heat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty so it melts beautifully!
4. Toasting the Buns (Optional):
For an extra touch, lightly brush the insides of the slider buns with olive oil or butter. Then, toast them in a skillet or the oven until they’re golden brown. Toasted buns really take these sliders to the next level!
5. Assembling the Sliders:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Place each cooked cheeseburger patty on the bottom half of a toasted slider bun. Spoon a generous amount of bacon jam over the melted cheese and add a sprinkle of finely chopped onion if you want a little extra crunch. Finally, cap each slider with the bun top.
6. Serve:
Arrange your sliders on a platter and serve them warm. These sliders are perfect for parties, game days, or any casual get-togethers. Enjoy every sticky, savory, and sweet bite!
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Notes:
- You can find bacon jam pre-made in many grocery stores or specialty food stores if you’d prefer a shortcut.
- Slider buns should be soft and slightly sweet to match the savory toppings.
- Feel free to customize with additional toppings like lettuce, pickles, or tomatoes if you’d like!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just make sure to season well, as these meats can be milder in flavor compared to beef.
How Can I Fix Overly Salty Bacon Jam?
If your bacon jam turned out too salty, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a little more brown sugar to balance it out. Simmer for a few more minutes to combine the flavors, and taste before serving!
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave them for a quick reheat.
Can I Make the Bacon Jam Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the bacon jam up to a week in advance! Just store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container, and warm it slightly before assembling the sliders for the best flavor and texture.
