Description
These Smoky Ghost Pepper Cheeseburger Bites with Bourbon Kick are the ultimate bold appetizer, combining smoky ghost pepper cheese, juicy beef patties, and a sweet-and-spicy bourbon glaze. Perfect for parties, these mini burgers deliver a kick of heat and flavor that will wow your guests with every bite.
Ingredients
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
Instructions
-
For the Bourbon 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- For an extra kick, drizzle more bourbon glaze over the assembled bites before serving.
Notes
- For a milder option, substitute ghost pepper cheese with Monterey Jack or cheddar.
- Vegetarian option: swap the beef patties with plant-based burger alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Party Food
- Method: Grilling, Skillet
- Cuisine: American
