Picture sinking your teeth into a Derby Slider, where juicy beef meets a smoky, bourbon-infused barbecue sauce that dances on your palate like a lively two-steppin’ partner. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses and promising an unforgettable flavor explosion as you gather with friends for game day or a cozy get-together.
These delightful mini burgers bring back memories of sun-soaked afternoons filled with laughter and friendly competition, each bite evoking the warmth of camaraderie. Ideal for any occasion, Derby Sliders not only satisfy cravings but also spark joy and anticipation for delicious moments shared with loved ones.
Why are Derby Sliders a game changer?
Deliciously unique with bourbon-infused barbecue sauce, these sliders elevate your gatherings!
Easy to make, they come together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy hosts.
Crowd-pleasing flavors ensure everyone will be coming back for seconds.
Versatile options allow you to customize toppings, catering to all tastes!
Perfect for game day, they bring a fun twist that scores big at any event.
Derby Sliders Ingredients
For the Sliders
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended) – This blend provides the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness for your sliders.
- 1 tsp salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the beef, making every bite delicious.
- 1 tsp black pepper – Adds a subtle heat and depth to your sliders that complements the other ingredients.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – This adds a savory richness that elevates the overall taste profile of the beef.
- 4 slider buns (preferably brioche) – Soft and slightly sweet, brioche buns hold up well to toppings and sauces.
- 4 slices cheddar cheese (optional) – Melts beautifully on top of the sliders for an extra creamy layer of flavor.
For the Bourbon Barbecue Sauce
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand) – Choose a sweet or smoky variety to match your taste preferences for the best flavor.
- 2 tbsp bourbon – Infuses the sauce with a warm, rich depth that pairs perfectly with the barbecue flavors.
- 1 tbsp honey – Adds sweetness and balances out the tangy elements of your barbecue sauce.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika – Provides a subtle smokiness that enhances the overall taste profile of your sauce.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – A must-have for adding a savory kick to your bourbon barbecue sauce.
For Toppings
- 1 cup shredded lettuce – Crisp and refreshing, it adds texture and balances out the richness of the sliders.
- 1 cup sliced tomatoes – Juicy slices provide acidity and freshness to each bite of your Derby Sliders.
- 1/2 cup pickles (sliced) – Their tangy crunch offers a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the burger and sauce.
How to Make Derby Sliders
1. Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce, 2 tablespoons of bourbon, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Mix well and set aside to let the flavors meld.
For the Patties:
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together 1 pound of ground beef (80/20 blend recommended), 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce until just combined. Form into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter.
Cook the Sliders:
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Cook each patty for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired doneness—golden brown is perfect!
4. Melt the Cheese: During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty to melt beautifully over them.
Assemble the Sliders:
5. Toast the Buns: Toast 4 brioche slider buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes until golden. Spread a generous amount of your bourbon barbecue sauce on the bottom bun, add a patty, and top with shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and pickles. Place the top bun and serve!
Optional: Serve with extra bourbon barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Derby Sliders
- Beef Blend Choice: Use an 80/20 ground beef blend for juicy sliders; leaner meat may result in dry patties.
- Seasoning Balance: Ensure even seasoning by mixing the salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce thoroughly into the beef before forming patties.
- Patty Size Matters: Form patties about 2 inches wide to ensure they fit perfectly on slider buns and cook evenly.
- Grilling Technique: Don’t press down on the patties while grilling; this releases juices that keep the sliders moist and flavorful.
- Cheese Melting: Add cheese during the last minute of cooking to prevent it from burning while ensuring it melts perfectly over the patty.
- Bun Toasting Tip: Keep an eye on the buns while toasting; they can burn quickly if left unattended on the grill.
How to Store and Freeze Derby Sliders
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Derby Sliders fresh, but if left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep toppings separate for optimal freshness.
Freezer: Wrap unassembled sliders tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; they’ll last up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm sliders gently in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Enjoy that bourbon-infused barbecue sauce!
Derby Sliders: Creative Twists Await
Feel free to explore delightful variations that make these sliders uniquely yours, elevating each bite with bold flavors!
- Turkey: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option. Using lean turkey will give you juicy sliders while keeping the calories in check.
- Veggie: Replace beef with a mix of black beans and quinoa for a hearty vegetarian alternative. This option is packed with protein and flavor, ensuring no one misses the meat!
- Spicy: Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for an extra kick. The heat from the jalapeños complements the bourbon barbecue sauce beautifully, creating a flavor explosion.
- Smoky: Incorporate smoked gouda instead of cheddar cheese for a deeper flavor profile. This cheese adds a creamy texture and smoky notes that elevate your sliders to gourmet status.
- BBQ Pulled Pork: Use shredded pulled pork instead of beef, topped with the bourbon barbecue sauce. This twist offers a savory sweetness that’s perfect for gatherings, making each slider irresistibly tender.
- Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free buns to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste. These buns still provide that satisfying softness, allowing everyone to enjoy the fun.
- Sweet & Tangy: Mix in pineapple chunks into your slider patty for a burst of sweetness. The pineapple pairs wonderfully with the smoky barbecue sauce, balancing flavors perfectly.
- Loaded: Top your sliders with crispy bacon and caramelized onions for an indulgent treat. These toppings add crunch and richness, turning simple sliders into a must-have game day experience!
Make Ahead Options
Derby Sliders are the ultimate choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious mini burgers without the last-minute rush. You can prepare the bourbon-infused barbecue sauce up to 3 days in advance by mixing 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce with 2 tablespoons of bourbon, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder—simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. Additionally, you can form the beef patties (made from 1 lb ground beef mixed with 1 teaspoon each of salt and black pepper, plus 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce) and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When it’s time to serve, just cook the sliders on a preheated grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, melting a slice of cheddar cheese on top during the final minute. Toast your brioche slider buns while grilling, then assemble with shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and pickles for a crowd-pleasing feast!
Derby Sliders Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use for the sliders?
For the best flavor and juiciness, I recommend using an 80/20 blend of ground beef. This ratio provides enough fat to keep your sliders moist while still holding their shape during cooking.
How can I store leftover sliders?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, separate the patties and toppings; this way, the buns won’t get soggy!
Can I freeze the sliders for later?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked patties for up to 2 months. Just let them cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the grill or stovetop.
What if my bourbon barbecue sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce is thicker than desired, simply whisk in a bit of water or extra bourbon until it reaches your preferred consistency. Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar can also help balance flavors while thinning out the sauce.
Can I make these sliders gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out traditional brioche slider buns for gluten-free options available at most grocery stores. Ensure your barbecue sauce is also gluten-free to accommodate dietary needs.
What’s a good serving suggestion for Derby Sliders?
These delicious mini burgers are perfect for gatherings! Serve them with classic sides like sweet potato fries or coleslaw. With 4 sliders per batch, they’re great as appetizers or main dishes—just adjust quantities based on your crowd!
Derby Sliders
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine barbecue sauce, bourbon, honey, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce until just combined. Form into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter.
- Preheat the grill over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they reach desired doneness.
- During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty to melt.
- Toast the slider buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes. Spread a generous amount of bourbon barbecue sauce on the bottom bun, add the patty, and top with lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Place the top bun and serve.
