These Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders are little bites of happiness! They feature juicy beef patties topped with a sweet and savory bacon jam that takes flavor to the next level.
Let’s be real, who can resist that yummy bacon jam? It’s the star of this dish, making it hard to eat just one slider. I love serving them at parties—they’re a big hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the right balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can work, but keep in mind they’re leaner and might need extra moisture.
Bacon: This is essential for the jam’s flavor. If you’re vegetarian, consider using a meat substitute, like tempeh bacon, to approximate the flavor. You can even skip the bacon and add a dash of liquid smoke, if you want a smoky taste.
Onion: Yellow onions are great for this recipe as they caramelize nicely. If you prefer something milder, you can use sweet onions like Vidalia or even shallots for a different flavor twist.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for this dish as it adds a kick! If you’re looking for a milder taste, use regular cheddar or a melty cheese like Monterey Jack or Gouda.
Brown Sugar: For a deeper flavor in the jam, dark brown sugar works beautifully, but you can substitute with honey or maple syrup if you’re out of brown sugar.
How Do I Perfectly Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions is key to a rich flavor in your bacon jam. The goal is to bring out their natural sweetness! Here’s how to do it well:
- Start with medium heat. Add olive oil or butter and the finely chopped onions.
- Cook slowly, stirring occasionally for about 15-20 minutes until they turn a lovely golden brown. If they start to burn, lower the heat.
- Add a pinch of salt to help draw out moisture and enhance sweetness.
Patience is crucial here; take your time for the best results!
Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 slider buns (soft and slightly sweet)
- 6 slices sharp cheddar cheese
For the Bacon Jam:
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee (optional, for deeper flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for cooking onions)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30-40 minutes to prepare, including making the bacon jam and cooking the patties. It’s quick enough for a weeknight, but fancy enough for a gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Bacon Jam:
Start by frying the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it becomes nice and crispy. Once it’s done, remove the bacon from the skillet and let it drain on some paper towels. When cool, chop the bacon into small pieces.
Next, drain excess bacon fat from the skillet but leave about 1-2 tablespoons in there for flavor. Add the finely chopped onion into the skillet and sauté over medium heat until the onions are caramelized and soft, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
Now, stir in the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and brewed coffee if you’re using it. Let this mixture simmer on low heat until it becomes thick and jam-like, which should take another 20-25 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick. Finally, add the chopped bacon back into the mixture and give it a good stir before removing it from the heat. Set it aside.
2. Prepare the Beef Patties:
While the bacon jam is cooking, form the ground beef into 6 equal small patties. Make them slightly larger than the slider buns since they will shrink a bit while cooking. Season both sides of the patties with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat up a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Place your patties on the grill and cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked to your liking. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and cover the grill or skillet to let the cheese melt perfectly.
4. Assemble the Sliders:
If you like, lightly toast the slider buns. Once they’re ready, place each cheeseburger patty onto the bottom half of a bun. Generously spoon the delicious bacon jam right on top of the melted cheese, and then finish with the top bun.
5. Serve:
Serve the sliders immediately while they’re warm. Enjoy the wonderful flavors of juicy beef, creamy cheddar, and that rich, sweet-savory bacon jam—all in one bite!
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before forming the patties. For a quicker method, you can submerge the sealed beef in cold water until thawed. Remember to drain any excess liquid before mixing and seasoning!
What Can I Substitute for Bacon in the Jam?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use tempeh bacon or mushroom bacon for a similar smoky flavor. Alternatively, sauté some diced mushrooms with a bit of liquid smoke to get a more traditional taste without the meat.
How Long Will Leftover Sliders Last in the Fridge?
Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make the Bacon Jam Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The bacon jam can be made up to a week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before using it on your sliders.
