Cowboy Sliders
Cowboy Sliders are a delightful twist on the classic slider, bringing together rich flavors in a bite-sized form. These sliders are perfect for parties, game days, or any casual get-together. With layers of seasoned beef, melty cheese, crispy bacon, and zesty jalapeños, each bite bursts with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, Cowboy Sliders are sure to impress!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Cowboy Sliders is a great idea because they are easy to prepare and loved by many. They combine simple ingredients to create satisfying flavors that everyone can enjoy. These sliders are also highly versatile; you can customize them with your favorite toppings or sauces. Plus, they can feed a crowd, making them an excellent choice for gatherings or parties!
How to Make Cowboy Sliders
Ingredients:
- ½ cup salted butter (sliced into pats)
- 1 tablespoon Honey Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped chives
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (curly or flat leaf)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon ground chipotle powder
- 12 King Hawaiian Rolls (keep rolls connected)
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 mixture recommended)
- ½ cup finely chopped sweet yellow onion
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons hamburger seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded)
- 8 slices smoked bacon (cooked, crispy, and crumbled)
- 1 cup French fried onions
- 1 medium-sized jalapeño (seeded and sliced into 12 rings)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Add the sliced butter to a small saucepan over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt completely, then remove from heat.
- Whisk in the honey Dijon mustard, chives, parsley, thyme, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and chipotle powder until well incorporated. (The butter may look slightly curdled, which is normal.)
- Carefully slice the King Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping them connected. Place the bottom half in the prepared baking dish.
- In a 10-12 inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, onions, and garlic. Stir constantly and break up the beef until cooked through and no longer pink. Drain any excess oil.
- Stir in the hamburger seasoning and Worcestershire sauce.
- Use a pastry brush to spread the cowboy butter over the bottom half of the rolls.
- Spoon the ground beef mixture over the butter layer.
- Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the cheese.
- Evenly sprinkle the French fried onions over the bacon.
- Place one jalapeño ring on top of the fried onions for each slider.
- Top the sliders with the top half of the buns.
- Brush the remaining cowboy butter over the top buns.
- Cover the sliders with heavy-duty aluminum foil. Bake for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the tops are golden brown. Check at 8 minutes to avoid burning.
- Allow the sliders to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve hot.
How to Serve Cowboy Sliders
Serve Cowboy Sliders warm, straight from the oven. They can be placed on a large platter for sharing. Add some extra jalapeño slices or dipping sauces on the side for those who enjoy a little heat.
How to Store Cowboy Sliders
If you have leftovers, allow the sliders to cool and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for about 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Tips to Make Cowboy Sliders
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapeños.
- Consider adding other toppings like guacamole or barbecue sauce for variety.
Variation
For a healthier option, you can use ground turkey instead of beef and incorporate more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach in the beef mixture.
FAQs
Can I make Cowboy Sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sliders up to the baking step, cover them, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese, such as pepper jack or Monterey Jack.
Are Cowboy Sliders suitable for kids?
Yes! They are generally loved by kids, but you may want to adjust the spice level by leaving out the jalapeños.
Enjoy these delicious and easy-to-make Cowboy Sliders for your next gathering!
