Oven Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders are the perfect party appetizer or easy dinner option that everyone will love. These sliders feature juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, all sandwiched between sweet Hawaiian buns. Baking them in the oven makes preparation a breeze. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian buns (connected)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 strips of bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Onions and Garlic:
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Add 1 lb of ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Sauces and Bacon:
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of barbecue sauce, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and the chopped bacon. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Assemble the Sliders
- Prepare the Buns:
- Slice the connected Hawaiian buns horizontally in half, keeping the top and bottom halves intact. Place the bottom half of the buns in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Add the Beef Mixture:
- Spread the beef mixture evenly over the bottom half of the buns.
- Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
- Top with Buns:
- Place the top half of the buns over the cheese and beef mixture.
Step 3: Bake the Sliders
- Brush with Butter:
- Brush the tops of the buns with the melted unsalted butter. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Step 4: Serve
- Slice and Serve:
- Remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Use a sharp knife to cut them into individual sliders. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy but not too dark, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss for varied flavors.
- Buns: Using connected Hawaiian buns makes it easier to assemble and bake the sliders, but you can use any slider buns you prefer.
Variations
Spicy Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders
- Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders
- Increase the amount of barbecue sauce and add a layer of caramelized onions for a smoky flavor.
Vegetarian Sliders
- Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative and omit the bacon for a vegetarian version.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these sliders ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the sliders up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze these sliders? A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled sliders before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
Q: What can I serve with bacon cheeseburger sliders? A: These sliders pair well with a side of fries, a fresh salad, or coleslaw.
Q: Can I use a different type of ground meat? A: Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative.
Oven Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders are a savory and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their flavorful beef and bacon filling, melted cheese, and sweet Hawaiian buns, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, these sliders are easy to make and always delicious. Enjoy making and sharing this tasty treat with your family and friends!
