Imagine biting into a perfectly-grilled, juicy pork slider topped with crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and a melty slice of cheddar cheese. The pork and bacon sliders are not only delightful but easy to make, a perfect choice for any gathering or just a laid-back dinner at home.
The ingredients for this recipe are quite straightforward and commonly available in most supermarkets. However, when selecting your ground pork, opt for a more lean option if you prefer a healthier version. The slider buns are also key; choose smaller and softer buns for the best slider experience.
Ingredients for Pork and Bacon Sliders
pork: Ground pork forms the base of our slider patty and provides a rich, meaty flavor.
salt and freshly-ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning the pork patties.
vegetable oil: Used for frying the patties.
bacon: It adds a touch of smokiness and crunch to the sliders.
slider buns: Choose soft and small buns for the best slider experience.
lettuce: Adds a fresh, crunchy texture.
tomatoes: Offers a juicy tanginess to each bite.
cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly on the hot pork patty, adding a creamy texture.
white onions: Provides a sharp, sweet crunch.
One reader, Alma Hills says:
I recently tried the pork and bacon sliders recipe and it was a hit! The combination of juicy pork, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese was absolutely delicious. The sliders were easy to make and perfect for a weekend barbecue. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a tasty and satisfying meal.
Techniques Required for Making Pork and Bacon Sliders
How to shape the pork patties: Divide the ground pork into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty using your hands.
How to cook the sliders: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the sliders in a single layer for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until done to your taste.
How to heat the buns: Add the buns (flat-side down) to the skillet after cooking the sliders and heat for a few seconds until the insides are slightly brown and crispy.
How to assemble the sliders: Layer the bottom halves of the buns with lettuce, onions, cheese, tomatoes, bacon, pork patties, and then top with the remaining bun. Secure with a toothpick and serve immediately.
How To Make Pork and Bacon Sliders
This slider simply made with juicy ground pork and bacon, put together with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and cheddar cheese, is the best you’ll ever have!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbpork,ground
- salt and freshly-ground black pepper
- 2tbspvegetable oil,or canola oil
- 6slicesbacon,cooked, cut in half
- 12slider buns,or small rolls
- lettuce,or spinach
- tomatoes,sliced
- cheddar cheese,sliced
- white onions,sliced
Instructions
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Season the ground pork with a few generous pinches of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Score the mixture into 8 equal portions, and then use your hands to shape each portion into a patty.
-
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the sliders in a single layer (you may need to do 2 or 3 batches) for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until done to your taste.
-
Once the sliders are done cooking, add the buns (flat-side down) to the skillet and heat for a few seconds each until the insides are slightly brown and crispy.
-
Lay out the bottom halves of the buns on your work surface. Then add to each a layer of lettuce or spinach, onions, cheese, tomatoes, bacon, the pork patties, and then top with the final layer of the bun.
-
Secure with a toothpick and serve immediately.
Recipe Notes
For a more delicious grilled cheese sandwich, feel free to make the top and bottom layers each their own mini grilled cheese sandwich!
Nutrition
- Calories: 409.04kcal
- Fat: 21.63g
- Saturated Fat: 6.15g
- Trans Fat: 0.06g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10.06g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.77g
- Carbohydrates: 31.87g
- Fiber: 1.32g
- Sugar: 4.23g
- Protein: 20.16g
- Cholesterol: 50.08mg
- Sodium: 487.33mg
- Calcium: 120.28mg
- Potassium: 324.92mg
- Iron: 2.70mg
- Vitamin A: 3.53µg
- Vitamin C: 1.16mg
Helpful Technique for Preparing Pork and Bacon Sliders
When cooking your pork patties, it's important to not press down on them with your spatula. This common mistake can cause the juices to be squeezed out, resulting in a dry and less flavorful patty. Instead, let the patties cook undisturbed, only flipping them once to ensure they cook evenly and retain their juiciness.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Sliders
Prep ahead: Prepare the pork patties and cook the bacon in advance to save time when assembling the sliders.
Use pre-sliced cheese: Opt for pre-sliced cheddar cheese to eliminate the step of slicing cheese during assembly.
One-pan cooking: Cook the sliders and toast the buns in the same skillet to minimize cleanup and save time.
Batch cooking: Cook the sliders in batches to ensure even cooking and save time compared to overcrowding the skillet.
Prep station: Set up a designated assembly station with all the ingredients prepped and ready to streamline the slider-making process.
Prep veggies in advance: Chop the lettuce, tomatoes, and onions ahead of time to save on prep time when assembling the sliders.
Substitute Ingredients For Pork and Bacon Sliders Recipe
pork - Substitute with chicken: Chicken is a lean and versatile meat that can be used as a substitute for pork in sliders. It has a mild flavor and can be seasoned and cooked in a similar way to pork.
bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a healthier alternative to pork bacon, with a similar smoky flavor and crispy texture when cooked. It can be used as a substitute in sliders for a lighter option.
slider buns - Substitute with whole wheat slider buns: Whole wheat slider buns are a healthier alternative to traditional buns, providing more fiber and nutrients while still offering a delicious base for the sliders.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with smoked gouda cheese: Smoked gouda cheese adds a rich and smoky flavor to the sliders, complementing the pork or chicken and bacon while providing a creamy texture.
white onions - Substitute with red onions: Red onions have a slightly milder flavor compared to white onions and add a pop of color to the sliders, enhancing their visual appeal.
Presenting Your Pork and Bacon Sliders
Elevate the pork patties: Mold the pork patties into perfect, uniform shapes to showcase precision and attention to detail.
Crisp the bacon to perfection: Cook the bacon until it is perfectly crispy, adding a delightful crunch to the sliders.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Arrange the sliders in a visually appealing manner on the plate, ensuring each element is placed with precision and balance.
Garnish with microgreens: Add a touch of elegance and freshness by garnishing the sliders with delicate microgreens, enhancing the visual appeal.
Use high-quality, artisanal slider buns: Opt for freshly baked, artisanal slider buns to elevate the overall presentation and provide a superior dining experience.
Incorporate a touch of edible gold leaf: For a luxurious touch, consider adding a delicate, edible gold leaf to the sliders, creating a visually stunning and opulent presentation.
Accompany with a side of truffle-infused aioli: Serve the sliders with a side of decadent truffle-infused aioli, adding a layer of sophistication and depth of flavor to the dish.
Present on a sleek, minimalist plating: Choose a sleek, minimalist plate to showcase the sliders, allowing the vibrant colors and textures of the ingredients to take center stage.
Essential Tools for Making Sliders
- Skillet: A skillet is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It's a versatile tool for cooking meats and vegetables.
- Tongs: Tongs are essential for flipping and handling the sliders while cooking. They provide a good grip and prevent the meat from breaking apart.
- Toothpick: Toothpicks are used to secure the assembled sliders, keeping all the layers in place for easy serving and eating.
- Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for slicing the tomatoes, onions, and any other ingredients that require cutting.
- Spatula: A spatula is useful for flipping the sliders and removing them from the skillet without damaging their shape.
- Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping and preparing the vegetables and other ingredients for the sliders.
- Large mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is used for combining and seasoning the ground pork to form the slider patties.
- Vegetable oil: Vegetable oil is used for cooking the sliders and browning the buns in the skillet.
- Food thermometer: A food thermometer is essential for checking the internal temperature of the pork sliders to ensure they are cooked through.
- Oven or stovetop: An oven or stovetop is needed for cooking the bacon and heating the buns.
Storing and Freezing Pork and Bacon Sliders
Allow the pork sliders to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the sliders, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Place the wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag or container, and label it with the date. Frozen sliders can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated sliders, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a microwave for 1-2 minutes, depending on the power of your microwave.
For frozen sliders, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Once thawed, follow the same reheating instructions as for refrigerated sliders. Alternatively, you can reheat frozen sliders directly in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
To maintain the quality and texture of the buns, it's best to store them separately from the pork patties and toppings. If you plan to freeze the entire assembled sliders, be aware that the buns may become slightly soggy upon thawing and reheating.
How To Reheat Leftover Pork and Bacon Sliders
The best way to reheat leftover pork and bacon sliders is to wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the buns from becoming too soggy.
Another option is to reheat the sliders in a skillet over medium heat. Place the sliders in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and the cheese is melted. This method will give the buns a slightly crispy texture.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat the sliders in the microwave. Place the sliders on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for about 30-45 seconds, or until they are heated through. However, keep in mind that the microwave may cause the buns to become slightly soggy.
For a crispy texture, you can also reheat the pork patties and bacon separately in a skillet over medium heat until they are heated through and slightly crispy. Then, assemble the sliders with the reheated components and fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and onions.
If you have an air fryer, you can also use it to reheat the sliders. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the sliders in the basket. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are heated through and the buns are slightly crispy.
Interesting Fact About Pork and Bacon Sliders
Pork and bacon sliders are a popular dish in the United States, especially at casual gatherings and parties. They are a versatile dish that can be customized with various toppings and condiments to suit different tastes and preferences.
Is Making Pork and Bacon Sliders at Home Cost-Effective?
This pork and bacon sliders recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Pork is a budget-friendly meat, and the addition of bacon adds flavor without significantly increasing the cost. The versatility of the ingredients allows for easy customization based on budget and preferences. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. Overall Verdict: 8/10.
Are Pork and Bacon Sliders Healthy or Unhealthy?
This pork and bacon slider recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- High in saturated fat: Both pork and bacon are high in saturated fat, which can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
- Processed meat: Bacon is a processed meat, which has been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers, particularly colorectal cancer.
- Refined carbohydrates: The slider buns are likely made from refined flour, which can cause blood sugar spikes and contribute to weight gain.
- High in calories: With the combination of pork, bacon, cheese, and buns, these sliders are likely to be high in calories, which can lead to weight gain if consumed regularly.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Opt for leaner cuts of pork, such as pork loin or tenderloin, and trim any visible fat.
- Replace the bacon with a leaner alternative, such as turkey bacon or Canadian bacon, or omit it altogether.
- Choose whole-grain slider buns to increase the fiber content and slow down the absorption of carbohydrates.
- Use reduced-fat cheddar cheese or a smaller amount of regular cheddar to decrease the overall fat and calorie content.
- Add more vegetables to the sliders, such as grilled onions, pickles, or avocado slices, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content.
- Serve the sliders with a side salad or vegetable-based side dish to balance out the meal and add more vitamins and minerals.
Editor's Opinion on This Pork and Bacon Sliders Recipe
This pork and bacon sliders recipe is a delightful combination of savory flavors and textures. The use of ground pork and bacon creates a rich and juicy patty, while the addition of cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and onions adds a refreshing and crunchy element. The cooking method ensures a perfectly cooked patty, and toasting the buns in the skillet adds a delightful crispiness. Overall, this recipe offers a satisfying and indulgent twist on the classic slider, making it a perfect choice for a casual gathering or a delicious weeknight meal.
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Why trust this Pork and Bacon Sliders Recipe:
This recipe guarantees succulent pork and bacon sliders, crafted with premium cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and crisp white onions. The pork is seasoned to perfection and seared to juicy tenderness, while the bacon adds a smoky, savory touch. With careful attention to detail and a balance of flavors, this recipe promises a delightful dining experience. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the expertise behind this creation, and savor the satisfaction of every bite.
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