Introduction to Cheeseburger Bacon Jam Sliders
Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’ve been searching for the perfect crowd-pleaser, let me introduce you to my Cheeseburger Bacon Jam Sliders. These delightful little bites are not just a quick solution for a busy day; they’re also a fabulous way to impress your loved ones during your next get-together. Picture this: juicy sliders topped with a sweet-savory bacon jam that’ll have everyone coming back for more. It’s a blend of comfort food and gourmet flair that transforms any meal into a standout occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Bacon Jam Sliders
Let me share why these Cheeseburger Bacon Jam Sliders are an absolute game-changer. First, they’re a breeze to whip up, perfect for those hectic weeknights when cooking feels like a chore. The explosion of flavors, with the richness of bacon jam mingling with juicy beef, is nothing short of heavenly. Plus, they hold well for gatherings, satisfying even the pickiest eaters at your table. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for Cheeseburger Bacon Jam Sliders
To create these scrumptious Cheeseburger Bacon Jam Sliders, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Each one plays an important role in making your sliders a delightful experience. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- Ground Chuck: This 80/20 blend creates juicy patties. The fat content keeps everything moist and flavorful.
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkle adds a punch of flavor without the fuss of peeling fresh garlic.
- Black Pepper and Salt: Basic seasonings that elevate your meat to the next level. Essential for flavor!
- Bacon: Who can resist crispy bacon? It adds a savory, smoky element to the jam.
- Fresh Garlic: Used in the bacon jam, it brings an aromatic quality that’s simply irresistible.
- Bourbon: A splash of this spirit enriches the jam’s depth, giving it a distinctly rich taste.
- Maple Syrup: This sweetener balances the savory jam beautifully, adding a touch of sweetness.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: A bit of tanginess to cut through the sweetness and richness.
- Brown Sugar: Amplifies that lovely sweetness in the jam, helping it caramelize to sticky perfection.
- Onion: Sweet when cooked, onions enhance the overall flavor profile of the jam.
- Wagyu Tallow or Non-Stick Spray: Use this for greasing your cooking surface; either keeps things from sticking.
- Slider Buns: These are the little pillows that will cradle all that deliciousness.
- American Cheese: Melty and gooey on top of the patties, it seals the deal on flavor.
For exact measurements, please check the end of the article where you can find everything nicely laid out for your convenience!
How to Make Cheeseburger Bacon Jam Sliders
Now, let’s dive into making these incredible Cheeseburger Bacon Jam Sliders! You’ll find each step easy to follow and filled with tips to ensure your sliders are a resounding success. Let’s get those taste buds tingling!
Prepare the Beef Patties
Begin by spreading out your ground chuck on a clean surface. Sprinkle garlic powder, black pepper, and salt evenly over both sides—seasoning is key for flavor! Now, here’s a neat tip: chill the seasoned beef in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps the patties hold their shape when cooking, ensuring a juicy bite every time.
Cook the Bacon and Prepare the Jam
Next up, let’s bring on the bacon! Chop it into small pieces and toss it into a pan over medium heat. Cook until it’s nice and crispy—oh, that aroma wafts through the kitchen like a delicious invitation! Once crispy, remove the bacon but leave some grease in the pan; it’s liquid gold for your bacon jam.
Add chopped onion to that flavorful grease and cook for about 10 minutes, letting it soften and become golden. Then, stir in the finely chopped garlic and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes. Ready for the magic? Toss the crispy bacon back in, followed by bourbon, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes until everything thickens into a glorious sticky jam. Patience pays off here!
Assemble the Sliders
Time to put it all together! Heat your griddle to medium and give it a light spray with cooking oil or Wagyu tallow to prevent sticking. Place the chilled patties on the hot griddle, seasoning the flip side. Cook for 4-6 minutes, then flip and add a slice or two of American cheese on top. Let that cheese melt into pure goodness!
While your patties are sizzling, grab those slider buns and toast both sides on the griddle until they’re golden and crisp. Now, assemble each slider with a cheesy patty, topping it with a generous spoonful of that mouthwatering bacon jam. Serve them fresh, or slice them in half for a fun presentation. Your guests will be raving about these delightful sliders!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients ahead of time to streamline cooking.
- Chill the beef patties for better texture and shape.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the bacon jam to suit your taste.
- Experiment with different cheeses for variety.
- Grill the sliders outdoors for added flavor and fun.
Equipment Needed
- Medium skillet or frying pan for cooking bacon and making the jam.
- Griddle or grill for cooking the beef patties and toasting buns.
- Sharp knife and cutting board for chopping veggies and bacon.
- Spatula for flipping the patties.
- Mixing bowl for seasoning the beef.
Variations
- For a spicier twist, add diced jalapeños to your bacon jam for a kick!
- Swap the American cheese for cheddar or pepper jack for extra flavor.
- Try turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Use gluten-free slider buns for a suitable alternative for those avoiding gluten.
- Add a slice of crispy lettuce and tomato for a fresh, crunchy texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these Cheeseburger Bacon Jam Sliders with crispy sweet potato fries for a delicious contrast.
- A classic side salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the sliders.
- Serve with a cold draft beer or a homemade lemonade for the perfect drink pairing.
- Present them on a rustic wooden board for a charming, inviting look.
FAQs about Cheeseburger Bacon Jam Sliders
Can I make the bacon jam ahead of time?
Absolutely! The bacon jam can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it before assembling your sliders, and you’re good to go!
What type of cheese is best for the sliders?
While I love American cheese for its meltiness, feel free to experiment with cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack. Each brings its own unique flavor to your Cheeseburger Bacon Jam Sliders!
Can I use a different type of meat?
Sure! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives can work well. Just remember that the cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on those patties!
How do I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers, store the sliders in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be reheated in the oven for best results, keeping everything crispy and delicious.
Can I cook these sliders on the grill?
Yes! These Cheeseburger Bacon Jam Sliders are perfect for the grill. Just make sure to keep the heat medium and watch them closely to get that beautiful sear.
Final Thoughts
In the whirlwind of our busy lives, it’s such a joy to discover a recipe like these Cheeseburger Bacon Jam Sliders that brings everyone together. The sweet and savory goodness of the bacon jam paired with juicy beef patties creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these sliders will undoubtedly elevate your meal. So roll up your sleeves and indulge in this delightful culinary adventure! Trust me, each bite will leave you and your loved ones craving more.
Description
Delicious cheeseburger sliders topped with savory bacon jam.
- Spread out the ground chuck, sprinkle a mix of garlic powder, black pepper, and salt on both sides, then chill it to firm up.
- Fry the bacon pieces in a pan until they’re crispy. Remove them, leaving some grease behind, and toss the rest.
- Cook the chopped onion in the leftover bacon grease over medium heat for about 10 minutes. Mix in the garlic and keep cooking for 4-5 more minutes.
- Put the crispy bacon back in the skillet. Stir it for a minute. Toss in the maple syrup, vinegar, bourbon, and brown sugar. Let it bubble on low heat for 10-15 minutes until it’s sticky. Scoop into a jar once it’s ready.
- Heat up your griddle to medium. Give it a quick spray with cooking oil or tallow. Toss the patties on, season the flip side, and cook for 4-6 minutes. Flip them, and after a couple of minutes, throw some cheese on top.
- On the same griddle, toast both sides of the slider buns until they’re lightly crisp and golden.
- Take each toasted bun, stack it with a cheesy patty, and top it with a spoonful or two of the bacon jam. Serve them as they are or slice them in half.
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness of the bacon jam to taste by adding more or less brown sugar.
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the bacon jam mixture.
- These sliders can be cooked on a grill as well.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg