Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders

Name: Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 6 slices of bacon, chopped; 1 medium onion, sliced; 3 tablespoons bourbon; 12 slider buns; 6 slices of cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love whipping up these Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders for gatherings. The combination of caramelized onions, smoky bacon, and a splash of bourbon creates an unforgettable flavor that everyone raves about. Each bite is juicy and packed with flavor, making these sliders the perfect appetizer or entrée for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or a casual get-together, these sliders never disappoint and are always a huge hit with friends and family.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-06T21:57:28.173Z

One time, I decided to up my slider game for a family BBQ, and that's when bourbon made its exciting debut in my cheeseburgers. I cooked the bacon until it was crispy, then deglazed the pan with bourbon to create an amazing glaze that coated the burgers beautifully. The trick is to let it simmer until it thickens, ensuring that each slider is bursting with flavor.

Another memorable attempt happened when I included caramelized onions in the mix. By slowly cooking them until golden brown, they added a delightful sweetness that balanced the smoky richness of the bourbon bacon. Pairing it all inside a soft slider bun, I knew I had created a new family favorite that would be requested repeatedly.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Savory blend of bourbon and bacon that elevates the classic cheeseburger
Perfectly portioned sliders for easy serving and sharing
Juicy beef patties seasoned to perfection, combining zest and richness

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The quality of your ground beef plays a vital role in the flavor and texture of these sliders. Opt for a blend with around 80/20 meat-to-fat ratio; this ensures your patties are juicy and flavorful without being overly greasy. If you prefer a leaner alternative, consider using ground turkey or chicken, but remember that they may require more moisture to compete with the beef's richness.

Bacon is the star ingredient that brings a smoky depth to each slider. For optimal crispiness, choose thick-cut bacon. As it cooks, it will render fat that not only enhances the patties but also adds flavor to the caramelized onions. Using lean bacon may not yield enough fat for deglazing, missing out on that bourbon-infused taste.

Tips for Perfect Patties

When forming your patties, handle the meat gently to avoid compressing it too much, which can lead to dense textures. A light touch will keep them juicy. Remember to make the patties slightly larger than the buns, as they will shrink while cooking. An optional tip: using your thumb to create a small indentation in the center helps them cook evenly without puffing up.

Seasoning your patties is crucial for flavor depth. Besides salt and pepper, you could consider adding minced garlic or smoked paprika for an extra kick. Just mix these in carefully, and be careful not to overwork the meat to maintain its tenderness. Additionally, letting them rest for a few minutes before cooking can enhance juiciness.

Serving and Storing Suggestions

These Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders are fantastic served fresh off the skillet, but you can elevate the experience with complementary toppings like spicy mayo, pickles, or even a drizzle of barbecue sauce. For a unique twist, each slider can be topped with jalapeños or avocado slices to add layer and flavor.

If you have leftovers, store the patties and buns separately in airtight containers. The cooked sliders can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, a quick sear in a skillet will restore their juiciness. Alternatively, you can wrap the sliders in foil and heat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for an easy way to revive their original texture.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

1 pound ground beef
6 slices of bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, sliced
3 tablespoons bourbon
12 slider buns
6 slices of cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Gather all your ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Cook the Bacon and Onions

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.

Deglaze the pan with bourbon and let simmer until the alcohol evaporates.

Form the Patties

In a bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked bacon, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into 12 equal-sized patties, making them slightly larger than the slider buns.

Cook the Sliders

In the same skillet, cook the patties over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach the desired doneness. Top each patty with a slice of cheddar cheese in the last minute of cooking to melt.

Assemble the Sliders

Place each burger patty on a slider bun and top with caramelized onions. Serve immediately while warm.

Enjoy these sliders fresh off the skillet for the best experience!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding BBQ sauce or your favorite condiments before serving. Experiment with different cheeses as well for unique tastes.

Bourbon in Cooking

In this recipe, bourbon acts not only as a deglazing agent but also contributes layers of flavor. When simmered with the onions, the bourbon’s caramel notes balance the savory elements of the bacon and beef, creating a unique taste profile. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, consider using a splash of apple cider vinegar mixed with a little brown sugar for sweetness.

Cooking with bourbon requires careful attention to flame and temperature; make sure to let it simmer to allow the alcohol to cook off, intensifying the overall flavor. If you notice the mixture thickening too quickly, simply add a splash of water or broth to keep it balanced.

Customizing Your Sliders

One of the great things about sliders is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack for heat or blue cheese for a more robust flavor. If you're looking to cater to specific dietary needs, you can easily make a vegetarian version using black bean patties or portobello mushrooms as hearty replacements.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the slider bun as well—try whole wheat or gluten-free buns. You can even toast the buns lightly in the same skillet after cooking the patties to enhance texture and prevent sogginess when assembling.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're planning a larger gathering, this recipe can be easily scaled up. Simply double or triple the ingredients without altering any cooking times significantly. Grouping patties on the same skillet will allow for even cooking, but make sure not to overcrowd to prevent steaming.

To manage time efficiently, consider preparing the bacon and onions a few hours in advance. They can be refrigerated until you're ready to cook the patties, allowing you to focus on entertaining your guests while still serving a deliciously crafted meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

It's best to prepare the meat mixture and patties ahead of time and cook them fresh when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for bourbon?

You can use apple cider vinegar or a non-alcoholic bourbon-flavored extract if you prefer.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground chicken or turkey can be used as a leaner alternative. Adjust the seasoning as needed.