👉Maple Bacon Bourbon Cheeseburger Sliders

🍔 Maple Bacon Bourbon Cheeseburger Sliders

Smoky, sweet, and savory — these Maple Bacon Bourbon Cheeseburger Sliders are the ultimate bite-sized indulgence! Whether you’re hosting friends, firing up the grill, or just want a bold-flavored dinner, these mini burgers bring big flavor in every bite.

🧾 Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 4–6 slices bacon

• 6 slices cheddar cheese (or enough for each slider)

• 2 tbsp maple syrup

• 1 tbsp bourbon

• 6 slider buns

• Lettuce leaves

• 1 tomato, sliced

• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Mix & Form Patties
In a bowl, combine ground beef, bourbon, salt, and pepper. Mix well and shape into 6 small patties.

2️⃣ Cook Bacon
In a skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Set aside on paper towels. Leave a little bacon fat in the pan for extra flavor.

3️⃣ Cook the Sliders
In the same skillet or on a griddle, cook the burger patties for 3–4 minutes per side, or until your desired doneness.

4️⃣ Toast the Buns
While burgers cook, toast slider buns cut-side down on a hot skillet or griddle until golden.

5️⃣ Assemble the Sliders
On each bottom bun, layer:

• Burger patty

• Slice of cheddar cheese (let it melt slightly)

• Crispy bacon

• Lettuce, tomato, and onion

• Drizzle of maple syrup

6️⃣ Finish & Serve
Top with the other bun half. Serve warm and enjoy the sweet, smoky, and cheesy goodness!

🧮 Nutrition (per slider):

• Calories: 350

• Carbohydrates: 25g

• Protein: 18g

• Fat: 20g

• Sugar: 6g

• Fiber: 1g

❓ 20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I skip the bourbon?
   Yes, just omit or sub with a splash of Worcestershire or beef broth.

2. Is the alcohol cooked off?
   Most of it is, especially if you cook the patties well-done.

3. Can I make these on a grill?
   Absolutely! Great flavor boost.

4. What kind of ground beef works best?
   Use 80/20 for juicy sliders.

5. Can I use turkey instead of beef?
   Yes, but add a bit of olive oil to keep it moist.

6. Can I prep these ahead?
   Yes, form the patties and cook bacon ahead of time.

7. What’s the best cheese for this?
   Sharp cheddar is classic, but gouda or pepper jack work too.

8. What kind of buns should I use?
   Brioche or potato slider buns are soft and flavorful.

9. Is maple syrup too sweet?
   It’s a small drizzle — just enough for balance.

10. Can I make them spicier?
    Add sliced jalapeños or spicy BBQ sauce.

11. How do I keep the patties from shrinking?
    Press a thumbprint into the center of each patty before cooking.

12. Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
    Yes, but freshly cooked bacon is crispier.

13. Can I make a large burger instead?
    Totally — just adjust the cook time accordingly.

14. Do I need to toast the buns?
    It’s optional, but adds great texture.

15. What goes well on the side?
    Fries, onion rings, or a tangy slaw.

16. Can I freeze cooked patties?
    Yes — let cool, then freeze in an airtight container.

17. How do I reheat them?
    Warm gently in a skillet or oven; avoid microwaving buns too long.

18. Can I serve these for a party?
    Perfect party food! Keep warm in a slow cooker on low.

19. Can I use turkey bacon?
    Yes, but it’s usually less crispy and flavorful.

20. Can kids eat these if there’s bourbon in them?
    Most alcohol cooks off, but for safety, omit if serving to kids.

🍳 20 Expert Cooking Tips

1. Chill patties for 15 min before cooking to help them hold shape.

2. Don’t overwork the meat when mixing to avoid tough burgers.

3. Add a dash of liquid smoke for extra depth.

4. Layer cheese while patties are hot so it melts beautifully.

5. Use a griddle to cook several sliders at once.

6. Serve with pickle slices for a tangy contrast.

7. Mix a little mustard into the meat for added zing.

8. Add bourbon to the maple syrup for a glaze twist.

9. Use thick-cut bacon for a satisfying crunch.

10. Brush buns with melted butter before toasting for added flavor.

11. Top with fried onions for even more texture.

12. Add a light aioli or spicy mayo for a flavor boost.

13. Use a meat thermometer — 160°F is safe for ground beef.

14. Slice tomatoes thin so the sliders stay manageable.

15. Secure with toothpicks to keep them intact when serving.

16. Offer on a platter with toppings on the side for DIY slider bars.

17. Toast buns face down in bacon fat for extra indulgence.

18. Use mini cast iron pans for cooking and serving at parties.

19. Balance the sweetness with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.

20. Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat for a smoky-spicy kick.