Steak Sliders Recipe

Cook onions low and slow

Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Add the thinly sliced onions and stir to coat. Cook, stirring every 3-4 minutes, until onions are soft and deep golden brown, about 25-30 minutes. If they start to stick, reduce heat slightly and add a tablespoon of water to deglaze.

Finish jam

When onions are deeply browned, stir in brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and red wine (if using). Increase heat to medium for 1-2 minutes to reduce and concentrate flavor, then lower heat. Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook another 2 minutes until glossy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Set aside; can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon, stone-ground mustard, 1/2 tsp Worcestershire, lemon juice, hot sauce drops, and 1/4 tsp black pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning. Refrigerate until assembly.

Form patties

Place 1 lb ground beef in a bowl. Add 1 tbs Worcestershire, 1 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder. Gently mix just until combined; do not overwork. Divide into 8 equal portions (about 2 oz each) and form into thin, slightly wider-than-bun patties with a small indentation in the center of each to prevent doming.

Cook patties

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon butter and let it foam. Add patties without crowding; cook 2-3 minutes per side for medium (longer for well-done). If using cheese, place half-slices on 4 patties during the last 30-45 seconds and cover briefly to melt. Transfer cooked patties to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

Toast buns: Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Split slider buns and toast cut sides in butter until golden, about 1 minute.

Assemble sliders: Spread about 1 teaspoon of B&B sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Place a small handful of arugula on the sauce (or a light toss of arugula with lemon or olive oil if preferred). Put a hot patty on top of the arugula. Spoon about 1 tablespoon caramelized onion jam over each patty. Add cheese-topped patties where appropriate, then place top buns and secure with toothpicks if desired.

Serve: Arrange sliders on a platter and serve immediately. Provide extra B&B sauce and caramelized onion jam on the side for dipping. Leftover components keep refrigerated (onion jam 4 days, sauce 3 days).