Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders

Name: Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds 80/20 ground chuck; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 tablespoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 pound bacon, chopped; 1 white onion, diced; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup bourbon; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/2 cup maple syrup; 6-9 slices American cheese; 12 slider buns; Wagyu tallow or cooking spray

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: July 28, 2025

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Introduction to Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders

There’s something deliciously comforting about sliders, and when you add bacon jam, it takes them to a whole new level! As a busy mom, I know we all crave quick solutions that don’t skimp on flavor, and these Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders are just that.

Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or need a fun dinner for the family, these sliders impress every time. They strike the perfect balance between savory and sweet, making them an unforgettable addition to your recipe rotation. So, let’s dive into the flavors that await!

Why You’ll Love This Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders

If you’re searching for a dish that’s super easy yet incredibly tasty, these Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders are for you! They come together quickly, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more with your loved ones. Plus, who can resist the combo of gooey cheese, savory beef, and that irresistible bacon jam? It’s sure to please picky eaters and foodies alike, transforming your meal into a savory celebration!

Ingredients for Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for making mouthwatering Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders. Here’s a quick rundown, and if you need exact measurements, you can find those at the bottom of the article.

Ground Chuck: The star of your sliders. I recommend using 80/20 for a juicy, flavorful burger.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the beef.
Garlic Powder: Adds depth and a bit of savory goodness to the patties.
Bacon: Chopped bacon creates that luscious jam. Feel free to use smoked bacon for additional flavor!
White Onion: This adds sweetness and a touch of crunch to the jam.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic gives the jam a zesty kick and aroma that’s simply irresistible.
Brown Sugar: This balances the salty bacon with a hint of sweetness in the jam.
Bourbon: A splash of bourbon enhances the richness of the jam. If you prefer, you can swap this with apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy note, brightening up the flavors in the jam.
Maple Syrup: For that delicious sweetness in the bacon jam. Adjust to your liking depending on how sweet you want it.
American Cheese: Melty and creamy, it’s the perfect topping for these sliders.
Slider Buns: Soft and fluffy, they cradle all the flavors beautifully. You can choose whole wheat or gluten-free options according to your needs.
Wagyu Tallow or Cooking Spray: Helps with cooking and adds a touch of richness when frying the patties.

These ingredients blend seamlessly to create the flavors everyone will rave about. Ready to whip them up? Let’s get cooking!

How to Make Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders

Prepare the Beef Patties

To start, flatten your ground chuck into a baking pan. This helps keep them uniform while cooking. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and garlic powder evenly over the meat. These seasonings really boost the flavor. Next, chill the seasoned beef in the fridge. This makes a firmer patty when it hits the heat, keeping juices locked in for that juicy bite you crave!

Make the Bacon Jam

Now, let’s whip up that irresistible bacon jam! In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon, then discard half of the grease. Add diced white onion to the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes until softened. Toss in minced garlic and cook for another 4-5 minutes. Mix in your reserved bacon, brown sugar, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup, and let it all simmer until thickened, around 10-15 minutes.

Cook the Patties

Heat a griddle or skillet over medium heat and apply wagyu tallow or cooking spray. Now, add your beef patties to the hot surface. Cook one side for about 4-6 minutes. Sprinkle a little more salt, pepper, and garlic powder on the uncooked side before flipping. After flipping, it’s time to add a slice of American cheese on top and let it melt for another 2 minutes. Yum!

Toast the Buns

Don’t forget about the buns! Toast them on the griddle or skillet until they’re golden brown. This simple step adds extra flavor and crunch, ensuring every bite is delightful.

Assemble Sliders

To bring it all together, place those gooey cheese-topped patties on the bottom halves of the slider buns. Generously dollop the warm bacon jam on top of each patty. Finally, cap them off with the top halves of the buns, slice each slider, and serve warm. Everyone will be reaching for seconds!

Tips for Success

Be mindful of cooking times to ensure your patties are juicy and not overcooked.
Feel free to customize the bacon jam sweetness to match your family’s taste preferences.
Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness—160°F makes for a safe burger!
Prep ingredients ahead of time to save on cooking stress during busy evenings.
Don’t rush the bacon jam—let it simmer for the best flavor!

Equipment Needed

Skillet or Griddle: Ideal for cooking patties and bacon jam. You can use a non-stick skillet if that’s what you have on hand.
Baking Pan: Perfect for flattening and chilling the ground chuck, but any large dish works too.
Spatula: Essential for flipping your patties with ease. A slotted spatula is even better for draining excess grease.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a splash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the bacon jam for a spicy twist!
Turkey Sliders: Swap out ground chuck for ground turkey for a lighter option. Season well to enhance flavor!
Veggie Patties: Replace beef with store-bought veggie patties for a meatless version everyone will enjoy.
Gourmet Cheese: Try swapping American cheese for cheddar or blue cheese for a flavor upgrade that packs a punch.
Herbs and Spices: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the beef mixture for a fresh, herby taste.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your sliders with crispy sweet potato fries for a delicious contrast.
Serve with a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the sliders.
For drinks, consider pairing with a light beer or sparkling lemonade.
Garnish sliders with pickles or fresh herbs for an extra pop of color.

FAQs about Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders

Can I make the bacon jam ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making the bacon jam ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat it gently before serving to bring back that heavenly aroma.

What can I use instead of ground chuck?

If you want a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well. Just remember to season it generously to enhance the flavor, as these lean meats can be more bland than beef.

Are these sliders gluten-free?

Yes! Simply choose gluten-free slider buns, and you’re set to enjoy a gluten-free version of these irresistible Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders. Don’t forget to double-check your other ingredients for gluten content!

How can I adjust the sweetness of the bacon jam?

It’s easy to customize! A little less brown sugar or maple syrup will give you a less sweet jam. Alternatively, add a bit more for a sweeter touch. Just taste as you go to find the perfect balance for your palate.

Can I freeze the sliders after cooking?

Definitely! These sliders freeze really well. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be reheated in the oven for a quick meal later on.

Final Thoughts

Creating these Bacon Jam Cheeseburger Sliders is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing people together over a shared love for delicious food. Each slider embodies a joyful burst of flavors, uniting family and friends around the table. You’ll cherish the smiles and satisfied bellies while enjoying the simple pleasure of savoring every bite. Whether for a special occasion or a weeknight treat, this recipe is a guaranteed hit that showcases love for home-cooked meals. So roll up your sleeves and dive into this culinary adventure; you’ll be delighted by the results!