Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with these irresistible Candied Bacon BLT Sliders! These mini masterpieces combine the classic BLT elements we all love with a sweet and savory twist that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
The star of the show is undoubtedly the candied bacon—crispy, sweet, with just the right hint of spice. Paired with fresh lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a special sauce, all nestled between soft slider buns, these little sandwiches deliver big flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This
- Perfect party food that’s equally suitable for game day gatherings or casual family dinners
- Sweet and savory flavor combination that appeals to both adults and kids
- Can be prepped ahead of time and assembled just before serving
- Customizable with your favorite BLT add-ins like avocado or cheese
- Easy to scale up for larger crowds
Ingredients
- 9 sweet slider buns (King's Hawaiian or brioche)
- 1 lb thick-cut center-cut bacon
- 1/4 head iceberg lettuce, cut into slider portions
- 2-3 Roma tomatoes, sliced thick
- Mayonnaise (about 1 tbsp per slider)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp fresh cracked black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes
- 5 tbsp butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp fresh parsley, minced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne, and 1 teaspoon of cracked pepper until it's well combined. This sweet and spicy mixture is what makes the bacon so special.
- Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Lay the bacon strips on the rack and generously sprinkle the brown sugar mixture on both sides, rubbing it in well. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the bacon during the last 10 minutes. Look for dark brown edges – that's when you know it's perfect.
- Remove the bacon from the wire rack and let it rest on a plate. Don't worry if it seems a bit soft – it'll crisp up beautifully as it cools down.
- In a small bowl, combine the butter, minced garlic, and parsley. Pop it in the microwave for about 20 seconds until it's softened and partially melted. This garlic butter is going to make your buns absolutely incredible.
- Slice your slider buns in half and spread the garlic butter mixture on the inside of both halves. Heat a large skillet over low heat and toast the buns butter-side down until golden brown, then flip and lightly toast the other side for about a minute.
- While the buns are toasting, cut each bacon strip into thirds so you'll have three pieces per slider. Wash and dry your lettuce, and slice your tomatoes into thick rounds that will fit nicely on the sliders.
- Spread mayo on the bottom buns, then layer on the lettuce and a thick tomato slice. Season the tomatoes with a pinch of salt and pepper. Top with three pieces of candied bacon, add more mayo to the top bun, and crown each slider. Serve immediately while everything is still warm and crispy.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the brown sugar mixture
- Make it a BLAT by adding sliced avocado
- Substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option (reduce cooking time slightly)
- For a spicier version, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of chipotle powder
- The candied bacon can be made up to a day ahead and stored in an airtight container
- Try different buns like pretzel rolls or Hawaiian sweet rolls for variety
Serving Suggestions
These sliders pair perfectly with crispy potato chips, sweet potato fries, or a simple side salad. For a complete party spread, serve alongside other finger foods like deviled eggs or vegetable platters.
Consider setting up a DIY slider bar with the components separate so guests can build their own perfect combination. Don’t forget to include extra special sauce on the side!
Notes
- The bacon will continue to crisp as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems slightly soft when first removed from the oven
- For best results, use thick-cut bacon that can stand up to the caramelization process
- Leftover candied bacon can be crumbled over salads or used in other recipes
- If making ahead, store components separately and assemble just before serving
FAQs
Can I make the candied bacon in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the candied bacon up to 24 hours ahead. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.
How do I prevent the bacon from burning?
Keep a close eye on the bacon during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. The sugar can go from perfectly caramelized to burnt quickly. Using a wire rack allows for even cooking.
Can I make these sliders vegetarian?
Absolutely! Try using plant-based bacon alternatives or even roasted portobello mushroom strips with the same brown sugar coating.
How do I keep the sliders warm for a party?
Assemble the sliders, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and keep in a 200°F oven for up to 30 minutes. Add the lettuce and tomato just before serving to prevent wilting.
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