Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors in one irresistible bite.
- Perfectly portioned for parties or snacking.
- Easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
- A bold, gourmet twist on a classic cheeseburger.
- The bourbon glaze adds a fun, adult-friendly touch.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Burgers:
- Ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- Salt and black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Smoked paprika
- Ghost pepper cheese slices (cut into small squares)
- Slider buns or mini brioche buns
For the Bourbon Glaze:
- Bourbon
- Brown sugar
- Ketchup
- Worcestershire sauce
- Dijon mustard
- Red chili flakes (optional for extra heat)
For Assembly:
- Lettuce leaves (small pieces)
- Tomato slices (mini or cherry tomatoes, sliced)
- Pickles (optional)
- Toothpicks or skewers
Directions
For the Bourbon Glaze
- Cook the Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine bourbon, brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Add red chili flakes if desired. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly. Set aside to cool.
For the Cheeseburger Bites
- Prepare the Beef Patties: In a large bowl, mix ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Form the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 2-3 minutes per side, or until desired doneness is reached. Add a square of ghost pepper cheese to each patty during the last minute of cooking and allow it to melt.
- Assemble the Bites: Spread a small amount of bourbon glaze on the bottom half of each mini bun. Place a piece of lettuce on top, followed by the cooked patty, a slice of tomato, and the top half of the bun. Secure each bite with a toothpick or skewer.
- Drizzle with Glaze: For an extra kick, drizzle more bourbon glaze over the assembled bites before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12-15 bites
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Less Spicy: Use Monterey Jack or cheddar instead of ghost pepper cheese for a milder option.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef patties with plant-based burger alternatives.
- Bun-Free: Serve the bites on lettuce cups for a low-carb option.
- Extra Smoky: Add a dash of liquid smoke to the glaze or beef mixture.
- Bacon Boost: Add a crispy bacon strip to each bite for even more flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover patties and glaze separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat patties in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Gently warm the glaze before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes, shape the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
2. What type of bourbon works best?
A smooth, mid-range bourbon like Maker’s Mark or Bulleit works well for the glaze.
3. Can I use other cheeses?
Absolutely! Pepper Jack or smoked gouda are great substitutes for ghost pepper cheese.
4. How do I control the spice level?
Adjust the amount of ghost pepper cheese and red chili flakes in the glaze.
5. Can I bake the patties instead of grilling?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. What sides pair well with these bites?
Serve with fries, onion rings, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
7. Can I skip the bourbon?
Yes, substitute apple juice or water with a splash of vinegar for a non-alcoholic glaze.
8. How do I prevent the cheese from burning?
Add the cheese in the last minute of cooking and cover the skillet or grill briefly to help it melt.
9. Can I freeze the patties?
Yes, freeze uncooked patties on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw before cooking.
10. Can I make them slider-sized?
Yes, use slightly larger patties and buns for sliders instead of bite-sized servings.
Conclusion
Smoky Ghost Pepper Cheeseburger Bites with Bourbon Kick are the perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and savory indulgence. Whether for a game day snack or a unique appetizer at a party, these mini cheeseburgers are sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s taste buds. Enjoy these bold and flavorful bites that combine the best of both worlds in a single delicious bite!
