Introduction
These Kentucky-style spicy grilled lamb sliders are packed with bold flavors and perfectly seared on the Arteflame grill. The high-temperature sear locks in the juices, while the reverse sear method ensures tender, juicy lamb patties. Topped with a creamy, tangy horseshoe sauce, these sliders make the perfect gourmet grilling experience.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp butter (for grilling)
- 6 mini brioche buns
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (for sauce)
- 1/4 tsp salt (for sauce)
- 1/2 cup arugula
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill
- Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
- Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
- Light the paper and allow the fire to heat the grill for about 20 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Lamb Patties
- In a bowl, mix ground lamb with smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, black pepper, salt, oregano, and cumin.
- Divide the mixture into six equal portions and shape them into small patties.
Step 3: Sear the Patties on the Center Grill Grate
- Place the lamb patties on the center grill grate for 1-2 minutes per side to develop a deep, flavorful crust.
- Once seared, move them to the flat top griddle to finish cooking.
Step 4: Reverse Sear on the Flat Top Griddle
- Cook the patties on the flat top cooktop until they reach an internal temperature of 145F for medium-rare.
- Remove the patties when the internal temperature is 130F, as they will continue cooking after being removed.
Step 5: Toast the Buns
- Spread butter on the brioche buns and place them on the griddle until golden brown.
Step 6: Make the Horseshoe Sauce
- On the cooktop griddle, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne, and salt.
- Stir until smooth and warmed through.
Step 7: Assemble the Sliders
- Place a handful of arugula on each bun bottom.
- Add a seared lamb patty and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Spoon the horseshoe sauce over the cheese.
- Add sliced red onions and cover with the top bun.
Tips
- Light your Arteflame grill early so it’s ready for grilling as you prep the ingredients.
- Use butter instead of oil for an extra-rich flavor.
- Allow the patties to rest for a few minutes after removing from the grill.
- Rotate the buns frequently while toasting to prevent burning.
Variations
-
Smoky Bourbon Sliders: Add 1 tbsp bourbon to the horseshoe sauce for a smoky depth.
-
Blue Cheese Lamb Sliders: Swap shredded cheddar for crumbled blue cheese for a tangy contrast.
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BBQ Lamb Sliders: Mix 2 tbsp BBQ sauce into the ground lamb before shaping into patties.
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Minty Greek Sliders: Add 1 tbsp chopped mint to the lamb mixture and replace horseshoe sauce with tzatziki.
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Spicy Jalapeño Sliders: Add diced jalapeños to the lamb mix and top with pepper jack cheese.
Best Pairings
- Sweet potato fries cooked on the Arteflame flat top griddle.
- Grilled corn with butter and smoked paprika.
- A Kentucky bourbon cocktail for an authentic pairing.
- Coleslaw to complement the spice of the lamb.
Conclusion
These Kentucky-style spicy grilled lamb sliders burst with bold flavors and an irresistible sear. Whether for a summer BBQ or gourmet gathering, they are a crowd-pleaser. Use the variations to customize your sliders and perfect your grilling craft.