Kentucky Hot Smoked Bologna Sliders

Introduction

Nothing says classic Southern BBQ like these Kentucky Hot Smoked Bologna Sliders! Thick bologna slices are flame-kissed with a rich BBQ sauce, creating a smoky, caramelized crust. Grilled to perfection on the Arteflame, these sliders capture all the bold flavors of traditional BBQ with that perfect seared finish. Serve them up on buttery slider buns, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing dish that’s bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 lb thick-cut bologna, sliced into ½-inch pieces
• ½ cup BBQ sauce
• 8 slider buns
• 2 tbsp butter
• ½ cup pickles (optional)
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

The Sear Makes the Steak, And Arteflame Makes the Sear

Why settle for low-temperature searing when you can achieve steakhouse-quality results with an Arteflame? Gas grills take longer, drying out your steak, while the Arteflame sears at 1000°F in just one minute, locking in juices for perfection.

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Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the oiled napkins in the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins.
4. Light the paper napkins and allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the bologna

1. Brush both sides of each bologna slice with BBQ sauce.
2. Allow the bologna to absorb the sauce for about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Sear the bologna

1. Place the bologna slices on the center grill grate to sear at 1,000F.
2. Let them sear for about 1-2 minutes per side until caramelized.
3. Move the seared bologna onto the flat cooktop for a more even finish.
4. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, flipping occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Toast the slider buns

1. Spread butter on the cut sides of the slider buns.
2. Place them cut-side down on the flat cooktop for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble the sliders

1. Spread Dijon mustard on the bottom slider buns.
2. Layer with a grilled bologna slice.
3. Add pickles and red onions if desired.
4. Place the top bun and serve immediately.

Tips

• Remove the bologna from the grill when it reaches 130F, as it will continue to cook after being removed.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
• For extra smoky flavor, add a small piece of hardwood to the fire.
• Use high-quality BBQ sauce to enhance the caramelization.
• To prevent overcooking, keep the seared bologna on the outer edges of the griddle if needed.

Variations

1. Spicy BBQ Bologna Sliders: Add a drizzle of sriracha to the BBQ sauce for some heat.
2. Cheesy Bologna Sliders: Top each slice with a piece of cheddar cheese before assembling.
3. Southern Style Sliders: Replace pickles with coleslaw for added crunch and tang.
4. Maple Glazed Bologna Sliders: Mix a tablespoon of maple syrup into the BBQ sauce.
5. Tex-Mex Sliders: Add sliced jalapeños and a sprinkle of taco seasoning for a southwestern twist.

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with butter
• Potato salad with mustard dressing
• Sweet tea or a cold craft beer
• Grilled baked beans
• Southern-style mac and cheese

Conclusion

Kentucky Hot Smoked Bologna Sliders are an easy, delicious meal packed with smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. The Arteflame grill ensures the perfect sear, locking in all the juices while creating an irresistible caramelized crust. Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ or enjoying a family meal, these sliders are guaranteed to impress.