Hey y'all! If you're searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser, look no further than these Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders. They're juicy, cheesy, and loaded with crispy bacon—all packed into perfect bite-sized buns. Whether you’re hosting a game day bash, summer cookout, or fun family dinner, these sliders are just what you need for smiles all around. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders Recipe
- Super easy to make with simple, everyday ingredients.
- Perfect as a party appetizer, main course, or snack for game nights.
- Juicy ground beef, melty cheese, and smoky bacon in each bite.
- Customizable with your favorite toppings and sauces.
- Great for making ahead—just reheat and serve!
Ingredients for Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended for juiciness)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 8 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and chopped
- 9-12 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
- 8 slices cheddar or American cheese
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
- Optional toppings: pickles, ketchup, mustard, shredded lettuce, tomato slices
How to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef. Season with kosher salt, black pepper, and add minced garlic and diced onion. Cook, stirring and breaking up the beef, until browned and the onions are soft (about 6-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Assemble the Sliders
Without separating the slider buns, slice them horizontally and place the bottom halves in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Layer the cooked beef mixture evenly over the buns. Sprinkle chopped bacon over the beef, then layer with slices of cheese, covering all the beef.
Step 3: Top and Bake
Add the top halves of the buns. Brush the buns with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes until tops are golden and cheese is bubbly.
Step 4: Serve Your Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders
Remove from oven, add your choice of toppings like pickles, lettuce, or tomato, and slice into individual sliders. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes & Tips for Perfect Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders
- Use Hawaiian rolls for a touch of sweetness, or your favorite mini buns.
- Cook the bacon ahead of time and crumble finely for even distribution.
- For alternative cheese ideas and melting tips, check out this cheese guide by Serious Eats.
Variations on Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese for heat.
- BBQ Style: Drizzle with barbecue sauce and swap cheddar for smoked gouda.
- Low-Carb: Serve the burger mixture in lettuce cups instead of buns.
Required Equipment for Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders
- Large skillet
- Cutting board & knife
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
- Basting brush
How to Store & Reheat Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders
Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap sliders in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes. For more guidance on food safety, visit this USDA storage chart.
Tasty Pairings for Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders
- Crispy fries or onion rings
- Classic coleslaw or potato salad
- Pickle spears and crunchy veggies
- Serve with chilled lemonade, craft beer, or iced tea
Pro Tips for the Best Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders
- Press the beef mixture down gently onto the buns for even layers and tidy sliders.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for optimal melt and gooey texture—see these cheese melting tips from Bon Appètit.
- Let the sliders sit a few minutes after baking for easier slicing and serving.
Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders FAQ
- Can I make Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders ahead of time?
- Yes! Assemble up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
- Do I have to use ground beef?
- No, try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative, though you may want to add a splash of oil for juiciness.
- Can I freeze Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders?
- Yes. Wrap tightly after baking, freeze up to 2 months, and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Prep Time: 20 min | Cook Time: 20 min | Total Time: 40 min | Servings: 9–12 sliders