These Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders are a fun mix of juicy beefy goodness topped with sweet, smoky bacon jam. Perfect for parties or just a tasty snack!
Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked! The sweet and salty flavors combine so well, it’s hard to eat just one. I love serving these at game nights! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Crispy bacon is the star here. I recommend using thick-cut bacon for better texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works too, though the flavor will change a bit.
Onion: A large onion adds sweetness when cooked down. Yellow onions are my go-to, but you could also use red onions for a different flavor profile.
Ground Beef: I prefer using 80/20 beef because the fat gives a juicy burger. For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken, but they might need more seasoning to keep them flavorful.
Slider Buns: Soft dinner rolls are best; they soak up the flavors well. Hawaiian rolls add a sweet touch, but any soft bun will do. You can even use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option!
Cheese: Cheddar is classic. Feel free to try other cheeses like pepper jack for some heat or Swiss for a milder taste. Vegan cheese is great if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do You Make Bacon Jam Just Right?
Making bacon jam is all about patience and layers of flavor. Start with crispy bacon; this gives the jam texture and flavor. The onions need to cook down until they’re golden and soft to bring out their natural sweetness.
- Cook the chopped bacon until crispy, then sauté onions in the leftover fat.
- Add garlic and cook briefly before adding the other ingredients.
- After combining everything, simmer until it thickens, stirring occasionally. This usually takes about 15 minutes.
Trust me; this jam will take your sliders to the next level!
What’s the Best Way to Form Perfect Burger Patties?
Forming patties can be tricky. You want them to be juicy but not fall apart! Here’s how:
- Divide your ground beef into equal portions; 12 parts work well for sliders.
- Gently shape each into a patty that’s slightly larger than the buns. This compensates for shrinkage as they cook.
- Make a small indentation in the center of each patty; this keeps them flat while cooking.
Season just before cooking to get the most flavor!
Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bacon Jam:
- 8 oz bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brewed coffee
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the Sliders:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20 fat ratio for juiciness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 slider buns (soft dinner rolls or Hawaiian rolls work well)
- 6 oz cheddar cheese, sliced or shredded
- Butter, for toasting buns
- Optional: lettuce, pickles, or mayo for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare the bacon jam and about another 15-20 minutes to cook the patties and assemble the sliders. Aim for a total of around 45-50 minutes, including cooking and assembling time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Bacon Jam:
Start by cooking the chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once the bacon is beautifully crispy, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
Next, add the chopped onions to the skillet containing the leftover bacon fat. Sauté over medium-low heat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently until they become very soft and caramelized. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Now, add the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, brewed coffee, black pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Mix well to combine everything. Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens into a jam consistency. Once done, remove it from the heat and let it cool. This bacon jam can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator!
2. Prepare the Burger Patties:
While your bacon jam is cooling, divide the ground beef into 12 equal portions. Form each portion into loose patties that are slightly larger than the slider buns. This way, they will fit perfectly once cooked. Don’t forget to season both sides with salt and pepper for flavor!
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook your burger patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired level of doneness. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty so it has time to melt beautifully.
4. Prepare the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, lightly butter the inside of each slider bun. Toast them on the grill or in a skillet until they are golden brown. This adds a lovely flavor and prevents them from getting soggy!
5. Assemble the Sliders:
It’s time to put it all together! Start by spreading a generous amount of bacon jam on the bottom half of each toasted slider bun. Place a cheeseburger patty on top of the jam. If you’d like, add optional lettuce or pickles on top for some crunch. Finally, cover the sliders with the toasted top buns.
6. Serve:
Arrange your sliders beautifully on a serving platter. The best part? Serve them immediately while they’re warm and freshly made!
Now, sit back and enjoy these flavorful sliders that are guaranteed to impress your friends and family with the perfect blend of savory beef, melty cheddar cheese, and sweet smoky bacon jam! Enjoy! 🍔🥓
Can I Use Turkey Bacon for the Bacon Jam?
Yes, you can use turkey bacon! It will give you a leaner option, though the flavor may not be as rich as traditional pork bacon. Cook it until crispy, just like regular bacon, for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftover Bacon Jam?
Store leftover bacon jam in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving to bring back its luscious texture.
Can I Make the Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the bacon jam and burger patties ahead of time. Cook the patties and assemble the sliders just before serving to keep them fresh. You can also warm the patties slightly before serving if you make them in advance.
What Can I Substitute for the Cheddar Cheese?
If you’re looking for a different flavor, feel free to substitute with pepper jack for some added spice, Swiss cheese for a milder taste, or even a dairy-free cheese if you prefer a vegan option!
