Cabernet and Gorgonzola Burger Sliders are the perfect combination of juicy beef, rich cheese, and a hint of wine, making them an ideal choice for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a game day party, or a casual dinner, these sliders will impress your guests with their bold flavors and gourmet twist. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and provide a delightful bite-sized treat that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of Cabernet Sauvignon and Gorgonzola cheese creates a unique taste that elevates traditional burgers.
- Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up these sliders in no time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, these sliders fit right in.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level with different sauces.
- Great for Sharing: These mini sliders are easy to serve and share among friends and family.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe for Cabernet and Gorgonzola Burger Sliders, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Medium-hot pan
- Instant-read thermometer
- Wax paper-lined cookie sheet
- Plastic wrap
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char on your burger patties while keeping them juicy inside.
- Instant-read thermometer: This tool ensures your burgers are cooked to the right temperature for food safety without overcooking.
Ingredients
Cabernet and Gorgonzola Burger Sliders – juicy and delicious mini sliders that will have your backyard crowd begging for more!!!
For the Sliders
- 16 oz (450g) organic ground beef (with at least 20% fat, makes three 1/3 lb. (100 g) patties)
- SYD Hot Rub (or Salt & Pepper)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium red onion (peeled, cut into half and sliced into 1/4 inch rings)
- ½ cup good Cabernet Sauvignon
- 1 package Italian Gorgonzola Cheese
- Mixed greens of your choice (butter lettuce, arugula, or iceberg lettuce)
- ½ cup spicy mayo (Mix some Sriracha hot sauce into ½ cup of mayo)
- Chicken hamburger buns
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Cabernet and Gorgonzola Burger Sliders
Step 1: Prepare the Patties
- Divide the 16 oz. (450 g) of beef into three portions of about 1/3 lb. (100 g) each.
- Shape each portion into a round patty about ½ inch (1 cm) wider than your bun.
- Make a depression in the center to prevent bulging during cooking.
- Sprinkle both sides with SYD Hot rub, then place on a wax paper-lined cookie sheet.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to cook.
Step 2: Sauté Onions
- In a medium-hot pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add sliced red onions seasoned with SYD Hot rub.
- Cook for about 5 minutes for firmer onions or up to 15 minutes for a jam-like consistency.
- Add the Cabernet Sauvignon and simmer until reduced to a syrupy liquid.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Preheat Your Grill
- Preheat your grill to 450°F (232°C).
- Use the hand test: hold your hand 6 inches above the grill; if you can hold it there for 2–3 seconds, it’s ready.
- Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Patties
- Place the patties on the hot grill, close the lid, and cook for about 5 minutes until nicely charred.
- If there’s excessive flaming from dripping grease, move the patties to a cooler spot on the grill.
- After 5 minutes, flip the patties and repeat to char the other side.
Step 5: Melt Cheese & Toast Buns
- Once both sides are charred, move each patty to a cooler spot on the grill.
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches about 150°F or until there’s no pink in the middle using an instant-read thermometer.
- In the last minute of cooking, add crumbled Gorgonzola cheese on top of each patty to let it melt.
- Toast the inside surfaces of burger buns on the grill until browned.
Step 6: Assemble Your Sliders
- Spread some spicy mayo on each bun.
- Add mixed greens of your choice to the bottom half of each bun.
- Place the melted Gorgonzola beef patty on top followed by Cabernet onions and more spicy mayo.
- Finish with the top half of each bun.
- Enjoy immediately with your favorite ale or beer!
How to Serve Cabernet and Gorgonzola Burger Sliders
Serving Cabernet and Gorgonzola Burger Sliders is all about enhancing their rich flavors while keeping the presentation appealing. Here are some great ways to serve these delicious mini sliders that will impress your guests.
Pair with Beer
- Craft Beer: A hoppy IPA or a rich stout complements the flavors of the burger.
- Red Wine: Choose a Cabernet Sauvignon to match the flavors of the burger’s ingredients.
Create a Slider Platter
- Variety: Serve a platter with different slider styles like BBQ, spicy jalapeño, or classic cheeseburgers alongside your Cabernet and Gorgonzola sliders.
- Garnishes: Add pickles, lettuce, and sliced tomatoes for freshness.
Add Dipping Sauces
- Spicy Mayo: Serve extra spicy mayo on the side for dipping.
- BBQ Sauce: A tangy barbecue sauce can enhance the smoky flavor of the burgers.
Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens: Offer a simple salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sliders.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and freshness.
How to Perfect Cabernet and Gorgonzola Burger Sliders
Perfecting your Cabernet and Gorgonzola Burger Sliders requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your slider game.
- Bold seasoning: Use SYD Hot Rub generously; it enhances meat flavor.
- Perfect patties: Ensure each patty is slightly larger than the bun to account for shrinkage during cooking.
- Melt cheese effectively: Add Gorgonzola in the last minute of cooking for optimal meltiness.
- Grill temperature: Preheat your grill properly for those beautiful char marks and juicy patties.
- Rest before serving: Let sliders sit for a few minutes after cooking to retain juices.
- Customize toppings: Feel free to add caramelized onions or crispy bacon for extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cabernet and Gorgonzola Burger Sliders
Pairing side dishes with your Cabernet and Gorgonzola Burger Sliders can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, they add a sweet contrast.
- Onion Rings: Golden-brown onion rings provide crunch and savoriness.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings freshness with its creamy dressing.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad balances well with the sliders’ bold flavors.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add color and healthy nutrients.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the rich taste of burgers perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Cabernet and Gorgonzola Burger Sliders from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Overworking the meat: Mixing the ground beef too much can lead to tough patties. Handle the meat gently when forming patties to keep them tender.
- Skipping the depression in patties: Not making a depression in the center of your patties can cause them to bulge while cooking. This can result in uneven cooking, so always create that little indent.
- Not measuring doneness: Relying only on visual cues can lead to undercooked or overcooked burgers. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure perfect doneness at 150°F.
- Ignoring seasoning: Neglecting to season both sides of the patties will result in bland sliders. Make sure to season generously with SYD Hot Rub or your preferred spices before cooking.
- Using cold buns: Serving your sliders on cold, un-toasted buns can detract from the overall experience. Toast them on the grill for added flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover sliders in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Keep any sauces or toppings separate for better preservation.
Freezing Cabernet and Gorgonzola Burger Sliders
- Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Cabernet and Gorgonzola Burger Sliders
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sliders on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place sliders on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for about 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water, cover with a lid, and steam for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese instead of Gorgonzola?
Yes, you can substitute Gorgonzola with other cheeses like blue cheese or even cheddar if you prefer different flavors.
How do I make these sliders healthier?
To make Cabernet and Gorgonzola Burger Sliders healthier, consider using leaner ground beef or turkey and whole-grain buns. You can also load them up with more veggies!
What sides go well with Cabernet and Gorgonzola Burger Sliders?
These sliders pair beautifully with sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can shape the patties and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook them, making meal prep easy.
Final Thoughts
Cabernet and Gorgonzola Burger Sliders are not just delicious; they are also versatile enough for any gathering. You can customize them with various toppings or cheeses according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try for your next barbecue or casual dinner—your guests will surely love it!

Cabernet and Gorgonzola Burger Sliders
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with Cabernet and Gorgonzola Burger Sliders, a gourmet twist on classic sliders that will elevate any gathering. These juicy mini burgers feature rich Gorgonzola cheese, savory caramelized onions simmered in Cabernet Sauvignon, and a kick of spicy mayo—all nestled between perfectly toasted buns. Ideal for backyard barbecues, game day parties, or casual dinners, these sliders are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Impress your guests with this bold and flavorful dish that’s sure to be a hit at any occasion.
Ingredients
- 16 oz organic ground beef (20% fat)
- ½ cup Cabernet Sauvignon
- Italian Gorgonzola cheese
- Red onion
- Spicy mayo (mayo mixed with Sriracha)
- Chicken hamburger buns
- Mixed greens
Instructions
- Shape the ground beef into three patties, creating a depression in the center.
- Sauté sliced red onions in butter until soft, then add Cabernet Sauvignon and reduce.
- Preheat the grill to 450°F (232°C) and cook patties for approximately 5 minutes per side until charred and cooked through.
- Top each patty with Gorgonzola cheese during the last minute of cooking.
- Assemble sliders by spreading spicy mayo on buns, adding greens, followed by patties and caramelized onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (100g)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Customize toppings as desired; try adding crispy bacon or extra veggies for added flavor. For a healthier option, use leaner meat or whole-grain buns.