These Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders are a delicious combo of juicy beef, crispy bacon, and sweet, tangy bacon jam. Perfectly sized for little hands or big appetites!
Honestly, who can resist bacon? I love serving these sliders at parties—they disappear fast! They’re fun to make and even more fun to eat. Grab some extra napkins, you’ll need them! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend. This ratio means a good amount of fat for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
Thinly Sliced Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to swap it out for American, Swiss, or pepper jack to match your taste. I enjoy mixing cheeses for a more complex flavor!
Slider Buns: Soft dinner rolls work perfectly, but you can use whole wheat or gluten-free buns if needed. Brioche buns add a nice touch of sweetness and richness.
Bacon: Use your favorite kind; smoked or regular works well. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider veggie bacon or sautéed mushrooms for a different flavor profile.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds tang to the bacon jam. If you don’t have it, white wine vinegar or even lemon juice can work in a pinch.
How Do I Make Sure the Bacon Jam is Perfectly Thick?
Getting the bacon jam just right is key for these sliders. Here’s how to achieve that perfect, jammy consistency:
- Cook the bacon until very crispy for intense flavor and less grease in the jam.
- Let the chopped onions caramelize well, which adds sweetness and depth to the jam.
- Simmer the mixture long enough. Aim for 20-25 minutes to reduce the liquids. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- If the jam seems too thin, let it simmer a little longer to achieve that thick consistency that holds well on the sliders.
Personal tip: Taste as you go! Adjust acidity or sweetness to your liking by adding more sugar or vinegar if needed.
Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 slider buns (soft dinner slider rolls)
- 6 slices cheddar cheese, halved (or cheese of choice)
For the Bacon Jam:
- 8 oz bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup brewed coffee or strong black tea
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend some time making the delicious bacon jam, cooking the juicy burger patties, and assembling the sliders. They are quick to make and sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Bacon Jam:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it gets nice and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon bits and set them aside, keeping the flavorful bacon fat in the pan. Next, add the finely chopped onion into the skillet and cook it over medium-low heat until it becomes caramelized and soft—this should take about 15 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute until you can smell its aroma. Now, return the crispy bacon to the skillet and mix it in. Add the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, brewed coffee (or tea), and red pepper flakes if you want a bit of spice. Let this mixture simmer, stirring occasionally, until it turns thick and jammy—about 20-25 minutes. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to taste. Once done, remove it from the heat and let it cool while you prepare the burger patties.
2. Prepare the Burger Patties:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 12 equal portions. Form each portion into a small patty, making them slightly larger than the slider buns since they will shrink while cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat up a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side for a perfect medium doneness, or adjust based on your preference. In the last minute of cooking, place half a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty so it can melt beautifully over the burger.
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Slice the slider buns in half. Start by spreading a spoonful of the bacon jam on the bottom half of each bun. Then, place one of the cheese-topped burger patties right on top of the jam. If you’re a fan of extra flavor, add another small spoonful of bacon jam on top of the burger patty before covering it with the top bun.
5. Serve:
Arrange the assembled sliders on a platter and serve them warm. These sliders are fantastic on their own, but feel free to add pickles or any of your favorite toppings for an extra touch. Enjoy!
Dig in and savor your scrumptious Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders! They’re a delightful treat for gatherings or an indulgent weeknight dinner!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter option. Just be mindful that turkey can be a bit drier, so consider adding an extra bit of fat, like olive oil, to keep the patties juicy.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Bacon Jam?
You can store leftover bacon jam in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Just reheat it gently in a saucepan or microwave before using it again on sliders or other dishes.
Can I Make the Bacon Jam Ahead of Time?
Yes, the bacon jam can be made a day or two in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before assembling your sliders for the best flavor.
What Can I Serve with These Sliders?
These sliders pair beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or potato chips for a classic touch. You can even set up a slider bar with extra toppings for guests to customize their sliders!
