These Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders are mini burgers packed with flavor! Soft buns hold juicy beef patties topped with sweet and salty bacon jam. Yum!
Who wouldn’t love bite-sized burgers that are perfectly shareable? I like to pile on extra bacon jam—I’m all about that tasty goodness! 🥓🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the perfect blend of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for 90/10, or use ground turkey for a lighter alternative.
Slider Buns: Soft dinner rolls are perfect for sliders. If you want a bit of crunch, try Hawaiian rolls for sweetness or whole wheat for a healthier twist.
Bacon: Classic smoked bacon adds that rich flavor, but turkey bacon works well too if you’re aiming for a leaner meal.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my choice for a robust flavor. If you’re cheese-obsessed, mix in some pepper jack for a spicy kick, or use gouda for a smokier taste.
Bacon Jam Ingredients: If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, white vinegar or lemon juice can work in a pinch. For a different flavor, try adding a splash of maple syrup instead of brown sugar!
How Do I Get the Bacon Jam Just Right?
Making bacon jam might seem tricky, but it’s all about patience! Start by cooking bacon slowly to render out the fat. This adds depth to the jam.
- Cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy, then set it aside.
- Use the bacon drippings to sauté onions on medium-low until they’re golden brown, about 20 minutes.
- Add your sweeteners and vinegar, then let it simmer until thickened. Stir often; this helps avoid burning.
- Finally, mix the crispy bacon back in, creating a sweet and smoky blend.
Trust me, the result is worth the wait—it’ll take your sliders to the next level!
How to Make Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (soft dinner rolls)
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 slices sharp cheddar cheese, halved
For the Bacon Jam:
- 8 slices bacon, diced
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for mild heat)
- 1/4 cup brewed coffee or water
Additional:
- Butter, for toasting buns
How Much Time Will You Need?
The whole process takes about 30 minutes for prep and cooking, plus an additional 20-30 minutes for the bacon jam to thicken. So in total, you’ll be looking at roughly an hour to make these delicious sliders from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Bacon Jam:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it’s crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon pieces from the pan but leave the drippings—this is where the flavor is! Now, add the finely chopped onions to those drippings and cook them over medium-low heat until they’re soft and caramelized. This might take about 20 minutes. Next, stir in the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, brewed coffee (or water), and red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. Let this simmer on low until it’s thick and jam-like, stirring occasionally for about 20-30 minutes. Finally, stir the crispy bacon back into the mixture and set aside.
2. Prepare Slider Patties:
While your jam is cooking, shape the ground beef into 12 small patties that are just a bit larger than the buns. Lightly season each patty with salt and pepper—don’t skip this step as it adds taste!
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip them over. Place half a slice of cheddar on each burger and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese melts and the patties reach your desired level of doneness.
4. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, take the slider buns and split them in half. Spread a little butter on the cut sides and toast them on a hot griddle or pan until they’re golden brown. Toasting adds a nice crunch and flavor!
5. Assemble the Sliders:
Now for the fun part! Take the bottom half of each slider bun and place a beef patty with melted cheddar on top. Generously spoon the bacon jam over each burger, and then cover with the top half of the bun. Yum!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
These sliders are best served warm as a delicious party appetizer or snack. Everyone will love the combination of savory beef, sharp cheese, and sweet bacon jam—perfect for any gathering!
Enjoy your tasty Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders!
Can I Make the Bacon Jam in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the bacon jam up to 3 days ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to use it, reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick.
Can I Use Different Cheese for the Sliders?
Yes, feel free to get creative! While sharp cheddar is delicious, you can also try pepper jack for some heat, gouda for a smoky flavor, or even blue cheese for a bold twist. Just make sure it melts well!
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them on a skillet or in the microwave. If reheating in the microwave, cover them to avoid drying out.
Can I Substitute Turkey Bacon for Regular Bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option! Keep in mind the flavor will be slightly different, so you might want to adjust the seasonings in your bacon jam to enhance the taste.
