Jalapeno Popper Bagel Sliders

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Shea Goldstein (@dixiechikcooks)

Jalapeno Popper Bagel Sliders are mini burgers packed with big flavor, inspired by the addictive taste of jalapeño poppers. Shea Goldstein shares her love affair with jalapeños and how these sliders bring together the perfect balance of cream cheese, bacon, and fresh jalapeños on soft bagel buns. Perfect for your...

Jalapeno Popper Bagel Sliders recipe
Prep Time
20min
Cook Time
20min
Total Time
40min

Ingredients

6 Servings
(1 serving = 1 slider)
  • ground round
    ground round
    1lb
  • cream cheese
    cream cheese
    6oz
  • yellow onion, diced
    yellow onion, diced
    1/2
  • unsalted butter
    unsalted butter
    2tbsp
  • Worcestershire sauce
    Worcestershire sauce
    2tbsp
  • sea salt
    sea salt
    1tbsp
  • coarse pepper
    coarse pepper
    1tsp
  • fresh jalapeno, diced small
    fresh jalapeno, diced small
    1
  • bacon, cooked and crushed
    bacon, cooked and crushed
    1/2lb
  • mayo
    mayo
    1/4cup
  • small bagels, split
    small bagels, split
    6
  • baby arugula
    baby arugula
    1bundle

How to make Jalapeno Popper Bagel Sliders

  1. Step 1

    Combine ground round, 2 oz cream cheese, diced jalapeno, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into burgers slightly larger than the bagel size, as they will shrink during cooking.

  2. Step 2

    Melt butter slightly in a grill pan over medium heat. Add the burgers and cook, turning once on each side until seared. Remove the burgers when they reach the desired temperature, turn off the heat, and leave the burger juices in the pan.

  3. Step 3

    Place the split bagel buns in the pan with the burger juices and cover for 1-2 minutes until soft and slightly browned on the inside.

  4. Step 4

    Combine the remaining cream cheese, mayo, and crushed bacon to create a spread.

  5. Step 5

    Assemble the sliders by spreading the cream cheese and bacon mixture on each side of the bagel buns. Add arugula, the burger patty, and the top of the bagel bun. Sprinkle extra bacon on top if desired before adding the top bun.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

489.2kcal (24.46%)

Protein

25.0g (50%)

Carbs

2.5g (0.91%)

Sugars

1.0g (2%)

Healthy Fat

18.5g

Unhealthy Fat

17.8g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Adjust the amount of jalapeño pepper based on your heat preference. Use less for mild heat or more for a spicier kick.

  2. Look for small bagels in the bakery section of your grocery store. They are often available at stores like Publix or Target.

  3. Ensure the bacon is crispy to avoid an unpleasant texture in the sliders.

  4. Experiment with different types of bacon for unique flavors, such as Bill E.’s Bacon for a premium taste.

FAQS

  1. Can I use a different type of ground meat?

    Yes, you can substitute ground round with ground turkey, chicken, or pork, but the flavor and texture may vary.

  2. How can I make these sliders less spicy?

    Reduce the amount of jalapeño or remove the seeds and membranes, which contain most of the heat.

  3. Can I prepare the sliders ahead of time?

    You can prepare the burger patties and bacon mixture ahead of time, but assemble the sliders just before serving to maintain freshness.

  4. What can I use instead of bagels?

    You can use slider buns, mini rolls, or even English muffins as an alternative to bagels.

  5. Can I grill the burgers instead of using a grill pan?

    Yes, grilling the burgers adds a smoky flavor and works well for this recipe.

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Shea Goldstein

(@dixiechikcooks)

A Southern Belle Who's Thinking About What's For Dinner While Eating Lunch...

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