There’s something about the combination of sweet and smoky flavors that makes any dish unforgettable. When you add crispy bacon, melted cheddar, and juicy beef into the mix, you get something truly special—Maple Bacon Stuffed Sliders. These bite-sized burgers are packed with flavor, stuffed with gooey cheese and smoky bacon, and finished with a hint of maple syrup for the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Inspired by Chef Maniac, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for game nights, barbecues, or any time you need a next-level appetizer.
Why These Sliders Work
I’ve tested my fair share of sliders, and this recipe stands out for a few key reasons:
- Stuffed, not just topped: The cheddar and bacon are mixed into the beef, so every bite is flavorful.
- The perfect balance of flavors: The maple syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness to contrast the smoky bacon and paprika.
- Quick and easy: With just a handful of ingredients, these come together in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable: You can add extra toppings, switch up the cheese, or even make them spicy with a kick of hot sauce.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Makes 12 sliders | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 6-8 mins)
- 12 slider buns
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for the best juiciness)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Cooking Surface
I preheat my grill or stovetop pan to medium heat so that the sliders get a perfect sear without overcooking.
2. Mix the Beef and Flavor Enhancers
In a large bowl, I combine the ground beef with shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, maple syrup, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Using my hands, I gently mix everything together, making sure not to overwork the beef (this keeps the patties tender).
3. Shape and Grill the Sliders
I form the mixture into 12 small patties, slightly larger than the buns since they shrink when cooked. Placing them on the grill, I let each side cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping only once for a juicy, even sear.
4. Assemble the Sliders
Once the patties are done, I place them on the slider buns. At this point, you can go classic with just the bun and patty or add extra toppings like:
- Crispy onion straws for crunch
- Pickles for a tangy bite
- Chipotle mayo for a smoky heat
- Extra melted cheese because why not?
Pro Tips for the Best Maple Bacon Sliders
- Use high-quality maple syrup—the real stuff makes all the difference.
- Don’t overwork the beef or it can become dense and tough.
- For an extra smoky kick, swap cheddar for smoked gouda or pepper jack.
- Toast the buns on the grill for extra flavor and a perfect texture.
What to Serve With These Sliders
These sliders are delicious on their own, but if you’re making a full spread, I love pairing them with:
- Sweet potato fries with a maple dipping sauce
- Grilled corn on the cob with smoked butter
- A crisp coleslaw to balance the richness
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prep the patties a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just cook them fresh for the best results.
Q: Can I cook these in the oven?
A: Yes! Bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway. You won’t get the same sear as grilling, but they’ll still be juicy and flavorful.
Q: Can I make them spicy?
A: Definitely! Add some cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot honey for a fiery twist.
Why These Sliders Deserve a Spot on Your Table
These Sweet & Smoky Maple Bacon Sliders are everything you love about a great burger, packed into a bite-sized treat. Whether you’re serving them at a party or just making an indulgent weeknight meal, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast. The mix of crispy bacon, melted cheddar, juicy beef, and maple sweetness is simply irresistible.
For more delicious recipes, check out Chef Maniac. If you give these sliders a try, let me know how you customize them—I’d love to hear your twist on this recipe!
These Maple Bacon Stuffed Sliders Will Steal the Show at Any Gathering
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for the best juiciness)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 4 slices crispy bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Slider buns
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat.
- In a bowl, mix the ground beef, chopped bacon, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Divide the mixture into equal portions and flatten them into patties.
- Place a tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese in the center of half the patties. Top with the remaining patties and seal the edges tightly.
- Cook the sliders on the grill or skillet for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired doneness.
- Toast the slider buns on the grill for a minute until golden.
- Assemble the sliders by placing the cooked patties on the buns. Serve warm.
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