Spicy Jalepeno Sliders

Hayley Sokol Bahr

I make these for New Year's Eve. The recipe is from Aaron McCargo Jr., Food Network Star 2008.

1 lb. ground beef

2 jalapenos, seeded and diced fine, plus whole or sliced, for serving

2 shallots, chopped fine

1/2 c. panko breadcrumbs

1/4 c. heavy cream

1/4 c. grated spicy Monterey Jack cheese

Pinch garlic powder

1 T. kosher salt, plus pinch

1/2 tsp. black pepper

1 c. crème fraiche or cream cheese

1/4 c. store-bought salsa Verde

12 mini dinner rolls (Dan's Food has slider buns)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a large bowl, add ground beef, jalapenos, shallots, panko, heavy cream, cheese, garlic powder, 1 T salt and 1/2 tsp. pepper. Mix together well. Form into small patties and place in oven for 12 to 15 minutes.

In a separate bowl, add crème fraiche or cream cheese, salsa verde, pinch of salt and pepper, mix together. Refrigerate until ready to serve with your sliders.

Lightly spread above mixture on both sides of buns. Place burgers in middle and pick it with a jalapeno.