These Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders are mini burgers packed with flavor! Juicy beef, melted cheese, and the sweet-salty goodness of bacon jam come together in each bite.
What’s not to love about tiny burgers? They are perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself—no judgment here! I love serving them with some crispy fries on the side!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean beef for the right balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, turkey or chicken can work too, but they might be drier, so consider adding a little olive oil.
Bacon Jam: The star of this recipe! If you’re short on time, store-bought bacon jam is totally fine. For a vegetarian option, try using a mushroom or onion jam instead to mimic that savory flavor.
Slider Buns: Soft and slightly sweet buns like Hawaiian rolls are fantastic. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat buns work well too! You can also use small tortillas for a fun twist.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix it up with Swiss or pepper jack for a little heat. If you’re dairy-free, there are great plant-based cheese options available now.
How Do You Make Bacon Jam Sing?
Bacon jam may sound fancy, but it’s quite simple to whip up and adds incredible flavor. Here’s a closer look at how to nail this step:
- Start by cooking the chopped bacon until golden and crispy. This is where you develop that deep, smoky flavor.
- After removing the bacon, use the drippings to caramelize your onions. Low and slow is key here; this will really deepen the sweetness of the onions.
- When adding the other ingredients to simmer, the mixture should be thick but still spreadable. Don’t rush it; give it time to develop that rich taste.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness with more or less sugar or vinegar based on your taste preference! It’s all about making it your own.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Burger Patties?
Cooking burger patties to perfection can be tricky! Here are some methods to keep them juicy:
- Make sure your grill or skillet is hot before adding your patties. This helps to sear the outside and lock in juices.
- Don’t press down on the patties while cooking! It releases juices that you want to keep inside.
- Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure. 160°F is a safe internal temperature for beef.
Let them rest for a minute after cooking to retain their juices! Happy cooking!
Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 8 slider buns (soft and slightly sweet)
- 8 slices cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup bacon jam (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for toasting buns)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped for garnish
For Homemade Bacon Jam:
- 6 slices 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 or strong black tea
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the ingredients, plus 30-40 minutes to make the bacon jam and cook the sliders. Including assembly and any extra time, you can have these delicious sliders ready to serve in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Bacon Jam (if homemade):
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon pieces and leave the drippings in the pan. Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté until softened and caramelized, which takes about 10 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, brewed coffee, maple syrup, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let it simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the liquid thickens and most has evaporated—this will take about 20-25 minutes. Once it’s ready, mix in the crispy bacon pieces and set it aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Sliders:
While the bacon jam cools, heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Divide your ground beef into 8 equal portions to form small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Season each patty with salt and pepper. Cook the patties for roughly 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach your preferred level of doneness. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on each patty so it can melt perfectly.
3. Toast the Buns:
In a separate pan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Slice your slider buns horizontally and toast the cut sides in the pan until they are golden brown and deliciously crispy.
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Now comes the fun part! Spread a generous spoonful of your homemade or store-bought bacon jam on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a cheeseburger patty on top and sprinkle extra crispy bacon pieces if you like. Finally, add the other half of the bun on top. For a little extra color and flavor, garnish with finely chopped parsley or chives, if desired.
5. Serve:
Arrange your beautiful sliders on a serving tray or board. Serve warm and enjoy every bite of these scrumptious Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders!
These sliders are a crowd-pleaser that combines the juicy, cheesy goodness of burgers with the deliciously sweet and savory flavor of bacon jam. Perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just be aware that these meats can be drier, so consider adding a little olive oil or some grated cheese to keep them moist while cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or heat them in the microwave for a quick option.
Can I Make the Bacon Jam Ahead of Time?
Yes! Bacon jam can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just reheat gently before using to spread on your sliders.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon Jam?
If you’re not a bacon fan or want a vegetarian option, try using a mushroom or onion jam instead. These can mimic the savory flavors and add a nice sweetness to your sliders as well!