Beef Sliders with Bacon Jam

For the Beef Sliders:

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 pounds high-quality ground beef (such as a blend of chuck and sirloin)

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • Mini slider buns

  • Baby arugula or mixed greens (for garnish)

  • Sliced Gruyere or your favorite cheese

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill or a skillet over medium-high heat.

  2. In a bowl, gently mix the ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Form small, evenly-sized slider patties.

  3. Grill or cook the sliders for about 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time to your desired level of doneness.

  4. In the last minute of cooking, add a slice of Gruyere or your preferred cheese on top of each slider, allowing it to melt.

  5. Toast the mini slider buns on the grill or in a toaster.

  6. Assemble the sliders by placing a slider patty with melted cheese on each bun. Top with a handful of baby arugula or mixed greens.

For the Bacon Jam:

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 pound bacon, finely chopped

  • 1 large onion, finely diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar

  • 1/4 cup maple syrup

  • 1/4 cup brewed coffee

  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.

  2. Add diced onions to the skillet and sauté until they become translucent.

  3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

  4. Stir in brown sugar, maple syrup, brewed coffee, and balsamic vinegar. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

  5. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a jam-like consistency.

  6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

  7. Allow the bacon jam to cool slightly before using it as a topping for the gourmet beef sliders.

Assemble:

  1. Spread a generous spoonful of bacon jam on the top bun of each slider.

  2. Place the bacon jam-covered bun on top of the slider patty and greens.

  3. Secure each slider with a toothpick if needed.

Serve these gourmet beef sliders with bacon jam as a delightful and indulgent appetizer or as the main attraction at your next gathering. Enjoy!