Baked Bacon Cheese Sliders Recipe
Baked Bacon Cheese Sliders are the ultimate solution for your next game day, family gathering, or laid-back dinner. These cheesy, savory sliders combine everything you love about a classic bacon cheeseburger—gooey cheddar, seasoned beef, and smoky bacon—all tucked between buttery sweet rolls and baked to golden perfection.
Why You’ll Love These Baked Sliders
- Perfect for feeding a crowd — from teens to tailgates.
- Simple ingredients with big, bold flavors.
- Make-ahead friendly and easily customizable.
Ingredients & Their Roles
Slider Filling
- 1 package bacon – Cooked and crumbled for smoky crunch and richness.
- 1 dozen sweet rolls – Acts as the soft, slightly sweet base that balances the savory filling.
- 1 lb lean ground beef – A hearty protein layer that forms the bulk of the slider.
- ½ cup chopped onion – Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the meat mixture.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully for that irresistible cheeseburger feel.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with garlic & onion, drained – Brings juiciness and a punch of flavor.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Enhances umami and ties the flavors together.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – Adds tangy complexity to the meat filling.
- Salt & pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and balance.
Glaze
- ½ cup butter, cubed – Melted and brushed over the tops for buttery goodness.
- 2 tbsp brown sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness and helps caramelize the tops.
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard – Provides zing to contrast the richness.
- ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce – Complements the meat and glaze flavors.
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds (optional) – Adds texture and a finished look.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Slice the rolls horizontally (keep them connected if possible) and place the bottom halves in the dish.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar onto the bottom halves. Bake just until cheese melts. Set aside.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the drained tomatoes, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until combined and warmed through.
- Evenly spoon the beef mixture over the melted cheese layer in the rolls. Top with crumbled bacon and another sprinkle of cheddar cheese.
- Place the top halves of the rolls over the filling to close the sliders.
- Make the glaze: In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and sesame seeds (if using).
- Brush the glaze generously over the tops of the sliders.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes or until tops are golden and caramelized.
- Cool slightly before cutting and serving.
Pro Tips for Perfect Sliders
- Use a serrated knife to cut the entire batch into individual sliders after baking for neat servings.
- Make ahead: Prep the beef mixture and glaze up to a day in advance for quicker assembly.
- Swap the protein with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add pickles or jalapeños between layers for extra flavor and crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these Baked Bacon Cheese Sliders with:
- Crispy fries or onion rings
- KFC-style coleslaw for a tangy side
- Sweet tea or ice-cold lemonade
- Pickle spears or a fresh salad to balance the richness