Muffin Tin Cheeseburgers

Muffin Tin Cheeseburgers are a fun and creative way to enjoy the classic flavors of a cheeseburger in a bite-sized, portable form. Perfect for parties, game days, or family dinners, these mini cheeseburgers are easy to make and customizable with your favorite toppings. The buttery, crisped bun base holds a flavorful beef and bacon filling, topped with melty American cheese. They’re quick to bake and even quicker to disappear!

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 6 regular-size burger buns, split
• 3 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
• 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
• 4 tablespoons ketchup
• 6 slices American cheese, each cut into four pieces
• Optional toppings: dill pickle relish, yellow mustard, pickles, lettuce, tomato

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Muffin Cups:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Brush the insides of 12 regular-size muffin cups with melted butter.
• Press the bottom half of each burger bun (cut side up) into each muffin cup. This will form the base of your mini cheeseburgers.

2. Cook the Bacon and Beef:

• In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and set aside.
• Discard the bacon drippings from the skillet, leaving just a thin coating to cook the beef and onion.
• Add the ground beef and diced onion to the skillet. Season with the seasoned salt and cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, for 5-7 minutes or until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

3. Assemble and Bake:

• Divide the cooked beef mixture evenly among the prepared muffin cups, placing the beef on top of the bun halves.
• Top each beef-filled muffin cup with about 1 teaspoon of ketchup, spreading it lightly over the surface.
• Place four small pieces of American cheese (one slice cut into four) on top of the ketchup-covered beef mixture in each cup.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

4. Add Toppings and Serve:

• Immediately after removing the muffin tin from the oven, top each mini cheeseburger with the cooked bacon pieces.
• Add any additional toppings you like, such as dill pickle relish, yellow mustard, pickles, lettuce, or tomato slices.
• Serve the Muffin Tin Cheeseburgers warm, straight from the muffin tin for a fun and tasty twist on a classic dish.

Tips:

• Bun Substitution: If you prefer a slightly softer base, you can use slider buns or dinner rolls in place of regular burger buns. Just adjust the size to fit your muffin tin.
• Customization: These mini cheeseburgers are highly customizable. Feel free to mix in different cheeses, add barbecue sauce instead of ketchup, or experiment with different ground meats like turkey or chicken.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve these Muffin Tin Cheeseburgers with a side of fries, chips, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They’re also great for parties—just prepare and bake in advance, then reheat as needed.

Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.