Kentucky Spicy Grilled Lamb Sliders with Horseshoe Sauce

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

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the paper and allow the fire to heat the grill for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Lamb Patties

1. In a bowl, mix ground lamb with smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, black pepper, salt, oregano, and cumin.
2. Divide the mixture into six equal portions and shape them into small patties.

Step 3: Sear the Patties on the Center Grill Grate

1. Place the lamb patties on the center grill grate for 1-2 minutes per side to develop a deep, flavorful crust.
2. Once seared, move them to the flat top griddle to finish cooking.

Step 4: Reverse Sear on the Flat Top Griddle

1. Cook the patties on the flat top cooktop until they reach an internal temperature of 145F for medium-rare.
2. Remove the patties when the internal temperature is 130F, as they will continue cooking after being removed.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

1. Spread butter on the brioche buns and place them on the griddle until golden brown.

Step 6: Make the Horseshoe Sauce

1. On the cooktop griddle, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne, and salt.
2. Stir until smooth and warmed through.

Step 7: Assemble the Sliders

1. Place a handful of arugula on each bun bottom.
2. Add a seared lamb patty and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Spoon the horseshoe sauce over the cheese.
4. 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

1. Smoky Bourbon Sliders: Add 1 tbsp bourbon to the horseshoe sauce for a smoky depth.
2. Blue Cheese Lamb Sliders: Swap shredded cheddar for crumbled blue cheese for a tangy contrast.
3. BBQ Lamb Sliders: Mix 2 tbsp BBQ sauce into the ground lamb before shaping into patties.
4. Minty Greek Sliders: Add 1 tbsp chopped mint to the lamb mixture and replace horseshoe sauce with tzatziki.
5. 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.