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 lb ground beef; 12 slider buns; 6 slices of bacon, chopped; 1/4 cup bourbon; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup diced onion; Salt and pepper to taste; Pickles; Your favorite BBQ sauce; Mustard or ketchup (optional)

When I first made these Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders, I knew I was onto something special. The combination of smoky bacon, rich bourbon, and juicy beef creates an explosion of flavor that’s hard to resist. These sliders are perfect for game days or a casual gathering with friends. I love how easy they are to assemble and can be made in under an hour, making them a go-to in my recipe repertoire. Everyone loves them, and there are never any leftovers!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-06T19:34:30.734Z

Cooking these sliders is always an adventure for me. I remember the first time I decided to add bourbon to the mix. It adds a depth of flavor that truly elevates the dish; the caramel notes from the bourbon meld beautifully with the savory smoked bacon. I also love to sear the patties until they're slightly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside. It's all about that perfect balance!

One tip I swear by is to let the cooked burgers rest for a few minutes before assembling the sliders. This keeps them juicy and ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Pair them with your favorite cheese, and you're in for a real treat. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        The intoxicating fusion of bourbon and bacon creates a unique taste experience.
Perfectly bite-sized, making them ideal for parties or game nights.
Juicy beef patties paired with melty cheese make every bite satisfying.

      

Mastering the Slider Technique

To get the perfect sliders, it's essential to use ground beef with a higher fat content, ideally around 80/20. This ratio ensures that the patties remain juicy and flavorful after cooking. When forming each patty, aim for a uniform size and thickness, roughly 1/4 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and prevents drying out. I recommend making an indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up during cooking.

Cooking the patties in the bacon fat adds an extra depth of flavor that complements the bourbon's sweetness and smokiness. Use medium heat to avoid burning the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. You should see a nice golden-brown crust developing on each side, taking about 4 minutes per side, depending on your stovetop’s heat output. If you're unsure, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F for medium doneness.

Tips for Perfect Assembly

Assembling the sliders is as important as cooking them. Choose slider buns that are soft yet sturdy enough to hold the toppings without falling apart. Toasting the buns slightly can provide a nice crunch and a barrier against moisture, keeping the inside from getting soggy from sauces. Just a minute or two on a skillet or under the broiler should do the trick.

Layering the ingredients thoughtfully can elevate the slider experience. Start with the cheesy patty, followed by the pickles and a generous drizzle of BBQ sauce to add sweetness and tang. If you enjoy a bit of heat, adding sliced jalapeños or a spicy mustard can offer a delightful kick. Don't forget to place the top bun gently to avoid squishing all the delicious fillings out!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these decadent sliders:

For the Sliders

1 lb ground beef
12 slider buns
6 slices of bacon, chopped
1/4 cup bourbon
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup diced onion
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly

Pickles
Your favorite BBQ sauce
Mustard or ketchup (optional)

Combine these ingredients for delicious sliders that will wow your guests!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your sliders:

Cook the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, leaving some bacon fat in the skillet.

Prepare the Beef

In a bowl, combine the ground beef with cooked bacon, bourbon, diced onion, salt, and pepper. Form into 12 small patties.

Cook the Patties

In the same skillet, cook the patties for about 4 minutes on each side or until they reach desired doneness. In the last minute of cooking, place cheddar cheese on each patty to melt.

Assemble the Sliders

Place each patty on a slider bun. Add pickles and drizzle with BBQ sauce. Top with the bun and serve immediately.

Enjoy your sliders with a side of fries or chips for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the beef mixture before cooking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing the sliders ahead of time can save you valuable time during gatherings. You can form the patties and freeze them before cooking. Simply place parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking and store them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months and cooked straight from frozen; just increase cooking time by a few minutes for even cooking.

If you have leftover cooked sliders, they store well in the refrigerator for about 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and place in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. If you prefer a crispy texture, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile. Swiss or pepper jack cheese can offer different melting qualities and enhance the overall taste of the sliders. You might also consider mixing herbs like fresh parsley or chives into the beef mixture for an additional layer of flavor that pairs well with the bourbon.

For a tangy twist, swap out traditional BBQ sauce with a bourbon-infused barbecue sauce or even a zesty honey mustard. You can also play with toppings—try arugula or spinach for a fresh crunch, or caramelized onions for added sweetness. Each variation can give you a brand-new slider experience even when using the same foundational recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prep the patties in advance?

Yes, you can make the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.

→ What can I substitute for bourbon?

If you prefer not to use bourbon, try using apple cider vinegar or a bit of beef broth for a different flavor profile.

→ Are these sliders freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked patties and just thaw them when you are ready to grill.

→ What cheese goes best with these sliders?

Cheddar is classic, but you can also try blue cheese or pepper jack for a kick!