BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders

Instructions

1. Prepare the meat mixture
   In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overmix as this can make the burgers tough.
2. Form the patties
   Divide the meat mixture into 12 equal portions and form into patties slightly larger than the slider buns, as they will shrink during cooking. Press your thumb gently into the center of each patty to create a slight dimple, which prevents the sliders from puffing up in the middle.
3. Cook the sliders
   Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook the slider patties for about 2-3 minutes per side until they reach desired doneness (internal temperature of 160°F for medium). During the last minute of cooking, brush each patty with BBQ sauce and place a slice of cheese on top to melt.
4. Prepare the buns
   While the patties are cooking, combine melted butter and garlic salt in a small bowl. Brush the tops of the slider buns with this mixture. Place the bottom halves of the buns on a serving platter.
5. Assemble the sliders
   Place each cooked patty on a bun bottom. Top each with 2 pieces of bacon and a small dollop of additional BBQ sauce. Add pickle slices if desired, then place the top buns on the sliders.
6. Serve immediately
   Arrange the completed sliders on a serving platter. If desired, insert a toothpick through each slider to hold them together. Serve immediately while hot and juicy, with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.