Grilled Tennessee Bologna Sliders

Introduction

Get ready to enjoy bold Southern flavors with these Grilled Tennessee Bologna Sliders. Using thick-cut slices of bologna, we're creating juicy, smoky sliders grilled to perfection on the Arteflame—because nothing locks in flavor like a 1,000°F sear. With crunchy pickles and tangy mustard on buttery slider buns, this elevated classic is sure to impress all grill lovers.

Ingredients

• 1 lb thick-cut bologna slices (about 1/2" thick)
• 12 slider buns, sliced
• 1 tbsp softened butter
• 1/4 cup yellow mustard
• 24 dill pickle slices
• Vegetable oil (for lighting fire)
• 3 paper napkins (for lighting fire)
• Firewood (maple or oak preferred)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

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

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. While the grill heats up, spread the inside of each slider bun with a thin layer of butter.
2. Lay out the bologna slices and set your pickles and mustard nearby for easy assembly.

Step 3: Sear the Bologna

1. Once the center grill grate reaches 1,000°F, place the bologna slices directly on it for 1 minute per side to sear.
2. Move the seared bologna to the flat top griddle to finish cooking to your desired doneness. Thick bologna is perfect when it reaches 155°F (remove at 140°F to allow for carryover cooking).

Step 4: Toast the Buns

1. Place the buttered buns cut-side down on the cooler outer edge of the flat top griddle.
2. Toast until golden and lightly crisp, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Assemble the Sliders

1. Smear mustard on the bottom bun.
2. Add a grilled bologna slice and two dill pickle slices.
3. Top with the other half of the bun and serve hot.

Tips

• Always remove the bologna from the grill about 15°F below your target temp to avoid overcooking.
• Use maple or oak wood for a smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with bologna.
• Butter not only enhances flavor but gives the buns a golden, crisp texture on the griddle.
• Stack and press your slider gently after assembling for a mouthwatering first bite.
• You can grill everything on the Arteflame—no pans or ovens needed.

Variations

1. Spicy Southern Sliders: Add sliced jalapeños and spicy brown mustard for a fiery Tennessee kick.
2. BBQ Bologna Sliders: Use BBQ sauce instead of mustard and add coleslaw for a sweet-savory crunch.
3. Cheesy Grilled Sliders: Place sharp cheddar slices on top of the bologna while finishing on the flat top until melted.
4. Breakfast Bologna Sliders: Add a griddle-fried egg and swap mustard for creamy aioli—breakfast never tasted so bold.
5. Pineapple Smokehouse Sliders: Top with a grilled pineapple ring and smoked gouda cheese for tropical Tennessee vibes.

Conclusion

These Grilled Tennessee Bologna Sliders are a flavor-packed twist on a Southern staple. With the Arteflame grill’s unique searing and flat cooktop advantages, you can bring out rich, juicy textures in a flash. Whether it's game day, a backyard cookout, or just a weekday craving, these sliders are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Best pairings

• Sweet tea or Tennessee whiskey cocktails
• Grilled corn on the cob with chili lime butter
• Homestyle potato salad
• Grilled peaches or banana pudding for dessert