Name: Delicious Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders That Wow Every Crowd
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Ground Chuck (80/20) (Substitute with ground turkey or chicken if desired.); 12 count Slider Buns (Use high-quality or whole-grain options.); 12 slices American Cheese (Can swap for cheddar or gouda.); 8 ounces Thick-Cut Bacon (Applewood or hickory-smoked varieties work well.); 1 medium White Onion (Yellow onion or shallots can be substituted.); 3 cloves Garlic Cloves (Minced.); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Coconut sugar is a great low-glycemic option.); 1/2 cup Bourbon (Substitute with apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.); 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar (White wine vinegar is a suitable alternative.); 1/4 cup Maple Syrup (Can use honey or agave syrup.)

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If you’ve ever found yourself dreaming about a snack that elegantly straddles the line between comfort and gourmet, allow me to introduce my Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders. Picture this: juicy patties—whether it’s ground beef or a leaner turkey—crowned with melty cheese and smothered in a rich, sweet bacon jam. These sliders are not just crowd-pleasers; they’re a delightful way to elevate your game day or casual gathering into something truly memorable. Plus, they’re incredibly adaptable—swap in different meats or cheeses to tailor them to your taste! Ready to impress your friends and family with an easy yet tantalizing appetizer? Let’s dive into the savory goodness of these sliders, shall we?

Why Are These Sliders So Irresistible?

Flavor Explosion: These sliders offer an incredible combination of juicy meat, melted cheese, and sweet, smoky bacon jam that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Adaptable Options: Switch out the ground chuck for turkey or chicken and experiment with cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a personalized touch.

Perfect for Gatherings: With their bite-sized nature, these sliders are ideal for parties or casual weeknight dinners, ensuring no one goes home hungry!

Simplicity Meets Gourmet: Despite their upscale taste, the recipe is easy to follow, making it a fantastic option even for novice cooks.

If you’re looking for more tasty pairings, consider serving these with Bacon Wrapped Dates for a delightful appetizer spread or complementary sides like Broccoli Salad Bacon to round out your meal!

Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders Ingredients

For the Sliders
• Ground Chuck (80/20) – This juicy blend is perfect for mouthwatering patties; feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter variation.
• Slider Buns – Choose high-quality or whole-grain options for better nutrition and a delightful taste experience.
• American Cheese – Melts beautifully, adding creaminess; swap it for cheddar or gouda for a flavor twist.

For the Bacon Jam
• Thick-Cut Bacon – Gives rich, smoky flavor to the jam; applewood or hickory-smoked varieties work wonderfully.
• White Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; yellow onion or shallots can be used as substitutes.
• Garlic Cloves – Minced for an aromatic kick that enhances the jam’s flavor profile.
• Brown Sugar – Balances savory and sweet notes; coconut sugar is a great low-glycemic option.
• Bourbon – Adds complexity; replace with apple juice for a non-alcoholic version if desired.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Contributes necessary acidity; white wine vinegar is a suitable alternative.
• Maple Syrup – Sweetens the jam beautifully, while honey or agave syrup can also be used.

Embrace the savory goodness of Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders for your next gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders

Step 1: Prepare the Patties
Start by taking your ground chuck and shaping it into 1-inch thick patties. Use your hands to flatten them evenly, then season generously with salt and pepper. Place the patties on a plate and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up the patties, making them easier to cook and ensuring they hold their shape during grilling.

Step 2: Cook Bacon and Onions
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add chopped thick-cut bacon. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes or until crispy, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking. Once the bacon is fully browned, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. In the same skillet with the residual bacon fat, toss in the diced white onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Make Bacon Jam
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir in brown sugar, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and let it cook for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes jam-like in texture. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside, allowing the bacon jam to cool slightly while you cook the patties.

Step 4: Cook Patties
In a separate skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil if needed, and place the chilled patties in the pan. Sear each patty for 4 to 6 minutes on one side, or until browned and crispy. Carefully flip them over and cook for another 4 to 6 minutes, adding slices of American cheese on top during the last 2 minutes to allow it to melt beautifully over the patties.

Step 5: Toast Buns
While the sliders are finishing up, slice the slider buns in half. Spread a thin layer of butter on the cut sides of each bun. In a skillet or under the broiler, toast the buns for 2 to 3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy, enhancing their texture and flavor as the perfect base for your Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders.

Step 6: Assemble Sliders
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Start with the bottom half of each toasted bun, placing a cheese-laden patty on top. Generously spread a spoonful of the savory bacon jam over the patty, allowing its rich flavor to meld with the juicy meat. Finish with the top half of the bun, press gently, and get ready to serve these delightful Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders at your next gathering!

How to Store and Freeze Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders

Airtight Container: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.

Bacon Jam Storage: Keep any remaining bacon jam in a sealed jar or container in the refrigerator for up to a week—its flavors deepen over time!

Freezing Sliders: For longer storage, wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Tips: When ready to enjoy, reheat sliders in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.

Make Ahead Options

These Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can prepare the bacon jam up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its rich flavor. The patties can also be shaped and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to firm up, allowing you to simply cook them before you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy, just reheat the bacon jam gently on the stove and cook the chilled patties for 4-6 minutes per side. This way, you’ll have delicious sliders ready to impress your family and friends with minimal effort!

Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders Variations

Get ready to unleash your culinary creativity and make these sliders yours with delightful variations!

Turkey Substitute: Swap ground chuck for ground turkey for a leaner yet flavorful option that still satisfies. It’s a great way to enjoy a lighter version without sacrificing taste.
Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with cheeses like sharp cheddar or rich gouda for a unique taste twist that elevates the flavor profile of your sliders.
Onion Swap: Use caramelized onions instead of raw for a sweeter flavor that beautifully complements the savory bacon jam. For those who love extra zest, throw in some sautéed jalapeños!
Herbed Jam: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the bacon jam for an aromatic touch that adds depth and sophistication to each bite.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce into the beef mixture for sliders that pack a flavorful punch. This fiery addition will surely awaken your taste buds!
Bun Choices: Swap traditional slider buns for whole-grain or sweet Hawaiian rolls to create a different texture and depth of flavor, catering to various dietary preferences.
Sweet Finish: Drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the top before serving for a sweet and tangy finish that enhances the entire slider experience.
Side Pairings: Serve with crispy fries or grilled vegetables as delightful accompaniments. Pairing with a light salad can provide a refreshing balance to the rich sliders.

While you’re at it, don’t forget to pair these delicious sliders with some Bacon Wrapped Dates or a zesty Broccoli Salad Bacon for an irresistible meal spread!

Expert Tips for Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders

Chill the Patties: Ensure your prepared patties are refrigerated for at least 30 minutes to help them retain their shape while cooking.
Bacon Jam Consistency: Keep an eye on the bacon jam as it simmers; it should thicken nicely. If it seems too loose, extend the cooking time to achieve the right consistency.
Flavor Infusion: For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to the burger mix for a subtle kick.
Avoid Dry Sliders: Don’t overcook your patties; they should be nice and juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—160°F for ground beef.
Make-Ahead Bacon Jam: Prepare the bacon jam a day in advance; it keeps well in the fridge and only gets better with time! Just reheat gently before assembling sliders.
Variety is Key: Remember, you can easily swap ingredients in the recipe; try different meats and cheeses to tailor your Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders to your crowd’s taste!

What to Serve with Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders

A delightful spread elevates these savory sliders, inviting guests to indulge in a perfect culinary experience.

Crispy French Fries: Their golden crunch provides a satisfying contrast, making every bite of slider even more enjoyable.
Tangy Coleslaw: This fresh, crunchy side adds a zesty flair that balances the rich, sweet flavors of the sliders beautifully.
Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Creamy, cool guacamole offers a delicious textural counterpoint while the chips add delightful crunch.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection bring out their natural sweetness and add a colorful, nutritious touch to your meal.
Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and savory Parmesan croutons create an elegant side that pairs wonderfully with the sliders.
Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink with bright citrus notes to cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Mini Cheesecake Bites: End on a sweet note with these bite-sized desserts, providing a perfect indulgence that complements the rich sliders.
Beer Selection: Opt for a hoppy IPA or a smooth lager to amplify the savory flavor of the sliders, making them irresistible!

Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders Recipe FAQs

What type of ground meat is best for sliders?
Absolutely! For the most flavorful and juicy Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders, I highly recommend using ground chuck with an 80/20 fat ratio. This blend creates wonderfully moist patties. If you prefer a lighter option, don’t hesitate to swap it out for ground turkey or chicken—they can be just as delicious when cooked right!

How should I store leftover sliders?
To keep your sliders fresh, simply transfer them into an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can wrap each slider in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze them for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge before reheating!

Can I freeze the bacon jam?
Yes, you can! To freeze your bacon jam, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it gently on the stovetop for the best flavor.

What if my bacon jam doesn’t thicken?
Very! If your bacon jam doesn’t reach the desired thickness, don’t fret! Simply continue simmering it on low heat, stirring occasionally. Typically, an additional 5 to 10 minutes should do the trick. If it’s still loose, you can mix in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water), cooking for another few minutes until it firms up.

Are these sliders gluten-free?
Indeed! You can easily make these Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders gluten-friendly by opting for gluten-free slider buns. There are several great brands available in stores that taste fantastic. Just ensure any added ingredients, like sauces, are also gluten-free to keep this delicious appetizer safe for those with sensitivities!

What can I serve with the sliders?
I often serve these scrumptious sliders with crispy fries or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness. Tangy coleslaw adds a lovely crunch, making it a complete meal. You can also pair them with other appetizers like Bacon Wrapped Dates for an irresistible spread!