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 cubed; 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup chopped onions; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Slider buns; Lettuce; Sliced tomatoes; Avocado; Your favorite sauces (e.g., mayo, sriracha)

Highlighted under: Basic Quick Meals Favorites

I absolutely love making these Easy Slider Sweet Potato Lentil Sliders! They are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of sweet potatoes and lentils creates a satisfying texture that everyone in my family enjoys. I often serve these sliders at gatherings, and they're always a hit! With the perfect balance of flavors and a hint of spice, they make for an amazing snack or light meal. You won't regret trying this recipe; it's so satisfying and nutritious as well.

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-14T05:57:35.131Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining sweet potatoes and lentils for sliders, I knew I had to try it. The combination was unexpected but turned out to be a game-changer! After experimenting with various spices, I found that a sprinkle of cumin and smoked paprika elevates the flavors beautifully.

Each time I serve these sliders at a gathering, they disappear quickly! It’s amazing how hearty yet light they feel. If you want them extra crispy, consider pan-frying them for a few minutes after baking, which creates a delightful texture contrast.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious blend of sweet potatoes and lentils
Easily adaptable for various toppings and sauces
Great for meal prep and leftovers

      

The Role of Sweet Potatoes and Lentils

Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and creamy texture to these sliders, enhancing the overall flavor profile while providing essential vitamins like A and C. Their starchiness helps bind the mixture together, which is crucial for achieving the right consistency. Choosing medium-sized sweet potatoes will yield about two cups when cubed, ensuring you have enough to balance the lentils effectively.

Lentils are a powerhouse of protein and fiber, making these sliders both satisfying and nutritious. The green or brown varieties work best in this recipe due to their earthy flavor and firm texture, which holds up well during cooking. If you want a quicker option, canned lentils can be used, just make sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly to remove any excess sodium.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Sliders

When forming the slider patties, ensure they are compact and not too thick; about 1/2 inch in thickness is ideal. If they are too thick, they may not cook evenly, affecting both their texture and flavor. You can use a ring mold for consistent sizing or your hands, keeping a little olive oil on your palms to prevent sticking.

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the mixture before shaping the patties. This not only brightens the taste but elevates the dish visually. Also, using a non-stick skillet is advisable, or you can line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the sliders from sticking during baking.

Ingredients

For the sliders

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup chopped onions
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For serving

Slider buns
Lettuce
Sliced tomatoes
Avocado
Your favorite sauces (e.g., mayo, sriracha)

Instructions

Prepare the sweet potatoes

Steam or boil the sweet potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash in a bowl.

Mix the ingredients

Add the cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, onions, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix well until combined.

Form the sliders

Shape the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches wide.

Cook the sliders

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook the sliders for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Alternatively, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.

Assemble and serve

Place the sliders on buns, add your favorite toppings, and serve warm.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the sliders in your favorite sauce before cooking. You can also substitute other beans for lentils if you'd like!

Serving Suggestions

When serving the sliders, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free slider buns to cater to different dietary preferences. The freshness of lettuce and sliced tomatoes adds a nice crunch and can lighten the richness of the sweet potato and lentil mixture. Additionally, avocado slices can provide a creamy contrast, balancing the spices beautifully.

Don’t be afraid to customize the toppings! A drizzle of sriracha or your favorite aioli can enhance the flavors further. Pair the sliders with a crisp side salad or sweet potato fries for a delightful meal that showcases the same ingredients, making the experience cohesive.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These sliders are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the slider mixture in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Alternatively, the formed patties can be frozen. Simply place parchment paper between the layers to avoid sticking and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before cooking them to ensure even cooking.

Reheating is straightforward: just warm them up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or on a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes each side until heated through. Be sure to cover with a lid on the skillet to retain moisture and ensure they do not dry out during reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Simply form and cook the sliders when you're ready.

→ Can I freeze the sliders?

Absolutely! Freeze the uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months.

→ What can I add for more flavor?

You can incorporate grated cheese, fresh herbs, or spices like cayenne for a kick.

→ Are these sliders gluten-free?

Yes, simply replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to make them gluten-free.