Easy Slider Sweet Potato Lentil Sliders

Name: Easy Slider Sweet Potato Lentil Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped; 1 cup cooked lentils; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; Olive oil for frying; Slider buns and toppings of choice

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Ideas

I love making Easy Slider Sweet Potato Lentil Sliders because they’re a delightful combination of flavors and textures that keep everyone coming back for more. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the hearty lentils and spices, creating a satisfying bite. These sliders are perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Plus, they’re simple to prepare, and I often find myself experimenting with different toppings to amp up the flavor even more. Trust me, these sliders will become a favorite in no time!

Created by

Dorothy Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:45:35.097Z

When I first cooked these sliders, I wanted to offer a vegetarian option that was hearty and satisfying. After experimenting with ingredients, I found the sweet potato and lentil combination struck the perfect balance. The natural sweetness from the sweet potatoes shines through, while the lentils provide a great texture that everyone loves.

One of my favorite tips is to let the mixture sit for a few minutes before shaping it into sliders. This allows the flavors to meld and makes the mixture easier to handle. Trust me, that little extra time makes a big difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying with a perfect balance of flavors
Nutritious ingredients that are easy to find
Versatile toppings allow for endless flavor combinations

      

Flavor Profile and Ingredient Roles

The combination of sweet potatoes and lentils in these sliders creates a delightful flavor profile that balances sweetness with earthiness. Sweet potatoes lend a creamy texture and natural sweetness, which helps to enhance the savory spices like cumin and smoked paprika. The lentils act as the backbone, providing protein and fiber while giving the sliders a hearty consistency. Together, these ingredients deliver a well-rounded taste experience that's both satisfying and nutritious.

Each component plays a significant role in the overall structure of the slider. Breadcrumbs bind the mixture and contribute to a crispy exterior when fried, while onions and garlic add a depth of flavor that elevates the dish. Don’t underestimate the importance of seasoning with salt and pepper; they bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients, so adjust to suit your palate.

Tips for Perfect Sliders

When forming the patties, it’s crucial to ensure they hold together well. If you find the mixture too wet, you can add a bit more breadcrumbs until the desired consistency is achieved. Refrigerating the patties for 10 minutes before cooking helps them firm up, reducing the chances of breaking apart during frying. If you're unsure about the right thickness, aim for about 1 inch; this thickness allows them to cook evenly while remaining moist inside.

The cooking temperature is equally important; you'll want medium heat to ensure that the sliders develop a golden-brown crust without burning. Keep an eye on them and gently press down with a spatula to ensure even cooking. It’s also beneficial to have your area organized and prepped with toppings ready to go before you start frying, so you can enjoy the sliders at their freshest.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious sliders:

Slider Ingredients

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
1 cup cooked lentils
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil for frying
Slider buns and toppings of choice

Now that you have everything ready, let's move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your sweet potato lentil sliders:

Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Boil the chopped sweet potatoes in salted water for about 15 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly.

Mash and Mix

In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes. Stir in the cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Form the Sliders

Shape the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches wide. Make sure they hold together well. Place on a plate and refrigerate for 10 minutes.

Cook the Sliders

In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Assemble and Serve

Place the cooked sliders on buns and add your favorite toppings. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Don't forget to get creative with your toppings!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize these sliders with your favorite sauces or add some spice with jalapeños for an extra kick.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, these sliders store well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply place them in an airtight container to avoid drying out. When you’re ready to eat, I recommend reheating them in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side. This method helps to retain the crispness while warming them through, ensuring that they taste freshly cooked.

For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to a month. When you’re ready to cook them, there’s no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the cook time to account for the frozen state.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These sliders are incredibly versatile when it comes to toppings. Consider adding a tangy slaw, avocado slices, or even a dollop of yogurt to complement the flavors. You can also experiment with different spreads such as hummus or spicy aioli for an extra kick. A slice of grilled pineapple or smoked cheese can add an exciting twist if you want to mix it up.

If you're looking for a spicier version, feel free to add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the patty mixture. Alternatively, you could swap out lentils for black beans or chickpeas for a different flavor profile. These simple variations provide endless opportunities for customization, letting you cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives.

→ How can I store leftovers?

You can store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these sliders?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked sliders. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper before freezing.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

I recommend avocado, lettuce, tomato, and a tangy yogurt sauce for a refreshing touch.