Mini Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders
Highlighted under: Wanderlust Dinner Recipes
I absolutely love these Mini Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders! They come together quickly and are perfect for game day or any casual gathering. The combination of juicy beef, crisp bacon, and melted cheese makes them irresistible. Plus, there's something so satisfying about serving sliders that everyone can enjoy without the mess of a full-sized burger. With a few simple ingredients, I find they’re the best way to please a crowd – everyone can customize their toppings just the way they like them!
When I first tried making these Mini Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders, it was a last-minute decision for a gathering. I wanted something quick yet delicious, and these sliders exceeded my expectations. The key is to use a mix of ground beef and spices to elevate the flavors, and the addition of crispy bacon takes it to another level.
I usually serve them with an array of toppings, including pickles, lettuce, and mustard, so everyone can build their own. This flexibility is what makes them a hit among friends and family, allowing everyone to enjoy their favorite flavors!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Juicy beef combined with crispy bacon for an unbeatable flavor
- Perfectly portioned sliders that are easy to eat
- Customizable toppings mean everyone can create their ideal burger
Perfecting the Patty
When forming your beef patties, aim for even thickness to ensure uniform cooking. A thickness of about half an inch is ideal, which balances a juicy interior with a well-cooked exterior. To prevent shrinkage during cooking, make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb; this will help them maintain their shape.
Using Worcestershire sauce adds not just flavor but also moisture to the beef. It’s important not to overwork the meat while mixing; just incorporate the seasoning gently to maintain a tender texture. Keep in mind that leaner ground beef can lead to drier patties, so opting for an 80/20 mix of meat to fat can enhance juiciness and flavor.
Bacon Breakdown
Crispy bacon can be a real game-changer for these sliders. Cooking the bacon in a skillet allows fat to render properly, resulting in crisp pieces that add a delightful crunch to each bite. Make sure to drain your bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease, which helps keep the sliders from becoming too oily.
If you prefer, turkey or chicken bacon can serve as a leaner alternative. However, be mindful that these options won't provide the same level of crunch and smokiness. If you go this route, opt for a thicker cut to enhance texture and flavor without drying out.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Mini Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders:
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 12 slider buns
- 6 slices of cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce, pickles, and other desired toppings
Once you have everything ready, you're all set to start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your sliders:
Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove it from the pan and let it drain on paper towels.
Prepare the Beef Mixture
In the same skillet, mix the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into small patties.
Cook the Patties
In the skillet, cook the beef patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness.
Add Cheese and Bacon
Place a slice of cheese on each patty and top with a portion of the crispy bacon. Let it melt slightly.
Assemble the Sliders
Place the cooked patties on the slider buns, adding lettuce, pickles, and any other preferred toppings.
Enjoy your delicious Mini Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders!
Pro Tips
- For a spicy kick, add jalapeños to your sliders or try a spicy sauce as a topping!
Storage and Serving Tips
These Mini Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders are best served fresh, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps maintain the slider's moisture without making the buns soggy.
If you're preparing for a crowd, consider making the beef patties and cooking the bacon a day in advance. Store each component separately in the refrigerator, and reassemble the sliders just before serving to keep the buns from getting soggy. Setting up a toppings bar can also make serving fun and interactive.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! While cheddar is classic, pepper jack adds a kick, and gouda offers a smokier profile. You can also consider different types of buns – pretzel buns add a unique flavor, while lettuce wraps make for a low-carb version.
For an added twist, mix in some finely chopped onions or garlic with the beef before forming the patties. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a subtle complexity to the overall taste. If you're feeling adventurous, top the sliders with BBQ sauce or sriracha for a spicy kick!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes, turkey can be a great substitute! Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
→ How can I make these sliders ahead of time?
You can prepare the patties and bacon in advance and refrigerate them. Assemble just before serving.
→ What toppings do you recommend?
Some popular toppings are avocado, sliced tomatoes, and various sauces like ketchup or BBQ.
→ Can I freeze the cooked sliders?
Yes, cooked sliders can be frozen! Just reheat them in the oven when you're ready to enjoy.
Mini Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders
I absolutely love these Mini Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders! They come together quickly and are perfect for game day or any casual gathering. The combination of juicy beef, crisp bacon, and melted cheese makes them irresistible. Plus, there's something so satisfying about serving sliders that everyone can enjoy without the mess of a full-sized burger. With a few simple ingredients, I find they’re the best way to please a crowd – everyone can customize their toppings just the way they like them!
Created by: Marco
Recipe Type: Wanderlust Dinner Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 sliders
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 12 slider buns
- 6 slices of cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce, pickles, and other desired toppings
How-To Steps
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove it from the pan and let it drain on paper towels.
In the same skillet, mix the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into small patties.
In the skillet, cook the beef patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness.
Place a slice of cheese on each patty and top with a portion of the crispy bacon. Let it melt slightly.
Place the cooked patties on the slider buns, adding lettuce, pickles, and any other preferred toppings.
Extra Tips
- For a spicy kick, add jalapeños to your sliders or try a spicy sauce as a topping!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g