These mini bacon cheeseburger bites are simply the cutest little burgers you’ll ever make! Each bite is packed with juicy beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheese—all on a tiny bun!
Perfect for parties or when you just want a fun snack, these bites will have everyone smiling. I love serving them with some ketchup on the side—so tasty and delightful! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the right amount of juiciness. If you want a leaner option, 90/10 will work but expect slightly drier bites. You could also substitute with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Bacon: Crispy bacon is essential for that crunch! If you’re looking for a healthier or vegetarian version, consider using turkey bacon or crumbled tempeh that is seasoned and crisped up.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives these bites a rich taste, but feel free to substitute with any cheese you enjoy, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for some heat! Vegan cheese can also work for a dairy-free alternative.
Cauliflower: The cauliflower acts as a low-carb alternative to buns. If you prefer, mashed potatoes or even sweet potatoes can make a tasty base, but keep in mind they’d change the flavor a bit.
How Do I Ensure My Cauliflower Bites Hold Together?
Getting the cauliflower base just right is key for sturdy bites. Here’s how to ace it:
- Make sure to steam the cauliflower until very tender. The softer it is, the smoother your puree will be!
- Mix the pureed cauliflower with the Parmesan and egg thoroughly. The egg acts like glue to hold everything together. If the mixture feels too wet, add a small amount of almond flour or breadcrumbs to help firm it up.
- Shape the mixture firmly into the muffin tin. The tighter they are packed, the better they will hold their shape while baking.
- Bake until golden. This will help firm them up, allowing you to easily get them out of the muffin tin without falling apart.
With these tips and substitutions, you’ll have scrumptious mini bacon cheeseburger bites that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking!
Mini Bacon Cheeseburger Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cups cauliflower florets (for the base)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for frying
- Chopped chives or green onions for garnish
- Optional dipping sauce: ketchup or your favorite burger sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time. So, set aside about 45 minutes to make these delightful mini bites that are perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cauliflower Base:
First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Now, steam or microwave the cauliflower florets until they’re nice and tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once they are soft, pop them into a food processor and puree until smooth. Transfer the puree to a bowl and mix in the Parmesan cheese and egg until everything is well combined. Don’t forget to season lightly with some salt and pepper!
2. Form and Cook Cauliflower Bites:
Next, take a mini muffin tin and lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper. Spoon your cauliflower mixture into small rounds, about 1-inch in diameter, to create the base for your bites. Bake these in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden color and feel firm. Remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Beef:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Then, roll the mixture into small balls that are roughly the size of your baked cauliflower bases. Heat the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook your beef balls. Press them down slightly to form small patties, cooking them for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are beautifully browned and cooked through.
4. Assemble the Bites:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard (if using). Spread a little of this mayo mixture onto each cauliflower base, then place a cooked beef patty right on top. Generously sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese onto each patty, letting it melt a bit, and finally, top everything off with crumbled crispy bacon.
5. Garnish and Serve:
To finish, sprinkle some chopped chives or green onions over your delicious bites. Serve them warm with ketchup or any of your favorite dipping sauces on the side, and enjoy these tasty mini bacon cheeseburger bites!
These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion and sure to be a hit with family and friends. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before pureeing. This will help ensure your cauliflower bites hold together well.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for an alternative, ground turkey or chicken are great options for a lighter take. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version that still satisfies the craving for a cheeseburger!
How Do I Store Leftover Mini Bacon Cheeseburger Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Can I Make the Cauliflower Base Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cauliflower base a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge, and when you’re ready to cook, assemble the bites and proceed with the recipe as directed.
