Meet the mini bacon cheeseburger bites, the perfect bite-sized treat for burger lovers! These little gems are packed with juicy beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, all wrapped up in a soft bun.
They’re great for parties or just when you’re craving something tasty. Trust me, I can never eat just one! 🍔 Who can resist that cheesy, bacon goodness?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 ground beef gives the best juiciness and flavor. If you want a leaner option, 90/10 works too, but it might be drier. Turkey or chicken can work for a leaner twist!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice kick. If sharp isn’t for you, try mild cheddar or even pepper jack for some spice. Vegan cheese can also work if you prefer a plant-based option.
Slider Buns: Mini slider buns are great, but dinner rolls or even smaller brioche buns can be a hit. You could also use lettuce wraps for a low-carb version!
Bacon: Crispy bacon is a must for the perfect crunch. If you’re avoiding pork, turkey bacon or vegan bacon are good alternatives that also taste great.
How Can You Get Perfectly Cooked Burger Patties?
Cooking burger patties can be tricky, but here’s how to get them just right. Start by using a reliable method for even cooking. Here’s a simple guide:
- Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat for a nice sear.
- Shape your patties a bit larger than the buns, as they shrink during cooking.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes without pressing down, then flip and add cheese to melt.
- Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking; aim for a juicy center!
Enjoy the process and remember, practice makes perfect!
Mini Bacon Cheeseburger Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
For the Assembly:
- 12 mini slider buns or dinner rolls
- 12 slices of cooked crispy bacon, halved if large
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
- 12 small lettuce leaves (or one leaf cut into slider size)
Extras:
- Optional: ketchup, mustard, pickles, or mayo for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 20-25 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the mini burgers, plus a few minutes for assembling them together. Perfect for quick gatherings or game days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill/Skillet:
Start by preheating your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. This will ensure your patties cook evenly and develop a nice sear.
2. Make the Burger Patties:
Divide the ground beef into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a small patty, making them slightly larger than the buns since they will shrink during cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the Patties:
Place your patties on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until nicely browned. Flip them over gently.
4. Add Cheese:
As soon as you flip the patties, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top of each one. Allow the cheese to melt as the other side cooks for another 3-4 minutes or until the patties are cooked to your liking.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, you can lightly toast the slider buns on the grill or in another pan until they are warm and slightly crispy. This adds a nice texture!
6. Assemble the Bites:
Start assembling by placing a small piece of lettuce on the bottom half of each bun. Add a bit of the chopped red onion, followed by the cheeseburger patty.
7. Add Bacon:
Top each patty with a slice of crispy bacon. This adds a delightful crunch and flavor that complements the beef perfectly!
8. Complete with the Bun:
Finally, place the top bun on each mini cheeseburger. If desired, you can secure each bite with a toothpick or decorative skewer to hold everything together.
9. Serve Warm:
Serve your mini bacon cheeseburger bites warm with any of your favorite condiments on the side. Enjoy these delicious bites at your next gathering!
These mini bacon cheeseburger bites are sure to be a hit—perfect for parties or a cozy night in. Enjoy every tasty bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a healthier alternative, but keep in mind it may be a bit drier. You can add a little olive oil to the turkey to help keep it moist when cooking.
How Can I Make These Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or use black bean patties. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the substitute you choose!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
Can I Prepare These in Advance?
Yes, you can form the burger patties and assemble them with the buns ahead of time. Store them in the fridge covered until you’re ready to cook. Just make sure to cook them fresh for the best flavor and texture!