Name: Cowboy Sliders Smoky Cheesy: 12 Bold Flavor-Filled Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20); 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 0.5 tsp chili powder; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp barbecue sauce (mixed into beef); 6 slices cheddar cheese (halved); 6 slices bacon (cooked and chopped); 0.5 cup crispy fried onions; jalapeños (sliced); 0.5 cup barbecue sauce (for drizzling); 12 slider buns; 2 tbsp butter (melted)

Cowboy Sliders Smoky Cheesy are the ultimate crowd-pleaser! These smoky, cheesy, barbecue-drizzled mini burgers are topped with crispy bacon, crunchy fried onions, and spicy jalapeños, bringing a bold cowboy-style flavor to any gathering. Perfect for game days, barbecues, or family dinners, these sliders are quick to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Sliders Smoky Cheesy

There are so many reasons to love these cowboy sliders. First off, they are incredibly easy to make, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. The combination of smoky flavors and cheesy goodness makes them irresistible. Each slider is packed with protein from the ground beef and bacon, making them a filling option. Plus, the addition of crispy onions and jalapeños adds delightful texture and heat. These sliders are perfect for parties, and they can be customized to suit different tastes. You can even prepare them in advance and reheat them for a quick meal. With their hearty flavors, they are sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

Cowboy Sliders Smoky Cheesy: 12 Bold Flavor-Filled Bites - Cowboy Sliders Smoky Cheesy - main visual representation

Ingredients for Cowboy Sliders Smoky Cheesy

Gather these items:

1 lb ground beef (80/20)
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
0.5 tsp chili powder
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp barbecue sauce (mixed into beef)
6 slices cheddar cheese (halved)
6 slices bacon (cooked and chopped)
0.5 cup crispy fried onions
jalapeños (sliced)
0.5 cup barbecue sauce (for drizzling)
12 slider buns
2 tbsp butter (melted)

How to Make Cowboy Sliders Smoky Cheesy Step-by-Step

Step 1: Mix ground beef with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, Worcestershire, and barbecue sauce.
Step 2: Form into 12 small patties.
Step 3: Cook patties 3–4 minutes per side in a skillet or on a grill.
Step 4: Add half-slices of cheddar during the final minute of cooking to melt.
Step 5: Toast slider buns with melted butter.
Step 6: Assemble sliders with beef patty, bacon, crispy onions, jalapeños, and barbecue drizzle.
Step 7: Serve warm.

Pro Tips for the Best Cowboy Sliders Smoky Cheesy

Keep these in mind:

Use high-quality ground beef for the best flavor. Learn more about choosing ground beef.
Experiment with different cheeses for unique cheesy cowboy burgers.
For extra smokiness, try adding smoked cheese or using a smoker to cook the patties.
Don’t overcook the sliders; they should be juicy!
This recipe is perfect for BBQ cowboy sliders with cheese during summer cookouts.

Best Ways to Serve Cowboy Sliders Smoky Cheesy

These sliders can be served in various ways:

Pair them with crispy potato wedges or fries for a classic meal.
Serve with a side of coleslaw or a fresh salad to balance the richness. Check out our coleslaw recipe.
For parties, offer a variety of toppings like different sauces and pickles to cater to everyone’s tastes.

How to Store and Reheat Cowboy Sliders Smoky Cheesy

To store, place any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the microwave or on a skillet. Just remember to drizzle a little barbecue sauce on top to keep them moist. This makes them great for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cowboy Sliders Smoky Cheesy

What’s the secret to perfect Cowboy Sliders Smoky Cheesy?

The secret lies in the seasoning and cooking time. Ensure the beef is well-seasoned and avoid overcooking to keep the sliders juicy. Adding cheese at the right time also enhances their flavor and texture.

Can I make Cowboy Sliders Smoky Cheesy ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the patties in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. This is perfect for reducing prep time on busy days or when hosting events.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cowboy Sliders Smoky Cheesy?

Avoid pressing down on the patties while they cook, as this releases juices and can lead to dry sliders. Also, ensure your grill or skillet is adequately preheated for even cooking.

Variations of Cowboy Sliders Smoky Cheesy You Can Try

There are many fun variations to experiment with:

Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Use different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Add other toppings like avocado or different types of sauces for unique flavors. Explore more topping ideas.
Make them vegetarian by using black bean patties instead of meat.