Oven Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders are the perfect combination of juicy beef, crispy bacon, and melty cheese, all nestled in soft slider buns. This crowd-pleasing dish is easy to make, making it ideal for game days, family gatherings, or any casual get-together. With a few simple steps, you can have these flavorful sliders ready in no time. Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 6 slices cheddar cheese
- 12 slider buns
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional)
- 1 tablespoon mustard (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season the Beef: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Shape and Cook: Press the seasoned ground beef into an even layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the beef is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
Step 2: Assemble the Sliders
- Drain and Top with Bacon and Cheese: Carefully drain any excess grease from the baking dish. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the cooked beef and place the slices of cheddar cheese on top, overlapping slightly if needed.
- Melt the Cheese: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Step 3: Build the Sliders
- Prepare the Buns: While the cheese is melting, slice the slider buns in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves of the buns in a separate baking dish or on a baking sheet.
- Assemble: Once the cheese is melted, carefully transfer the beef patty from the baking dish and place it on top of the bottom halves of the slider buns. Add the top halves of the buns.
- Brush with Butter: Brush the tops of the slider buns with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
- Bake: Place the assembled sliders in the oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the buns are toasted and golden brown.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve: Remove the sliders from the oven, and if desired, drizzle with ketchup and mustard. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Don’t Overmix: When mixing the ground beef, avoid overmixing as it can make the beef tough.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to use other types of cheese, such as American, Swiss, or pepper jack, to suit your taste.
- Make Ahead: You can cook the beef patty and bacon ahead of time, then assemble and bake the sliders when ready to serve.
Variations
- BBQ Bacon Sliders: Add a layer of barbecue sauce between the beef and cheese for a smoky, sweet twist.
- Jalapeño Sliders: Add sliced jalapeños on top of the beef before adding the cheese for a spicy kick.
- Turkey Sliders: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version of these sliders.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve with crispy French fries, sweet potato fries, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
- Dipping Sauces: Provide a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue sauce, or spicy mayo for extra flavor.
- Pickles: Serve with dill pickles on the side for a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the sliders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Bacon?
Yes, pre-cooked bacon works well in this recipe. Just crumble it and sprinkle it over the beef before adding the cheese.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Freeze These Sliders?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) sliders. Wrap them tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What Other Toppings Can I Add?
You can add caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or pickled jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
Oven Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders are an easy and delicious way to feed a crowd. With the combination of juicy beef, crispy bacon, and melty cheese, these sliders are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or just making a fun family meal, these sliders are always a great choice. Gather your ingredients, bake, and enjoy these tasty sliders!
Happy Cooking!