Easy Slider BBQ Lentil Sliders

Name: Easy Slider BBQ Lentil Sliders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked lentils; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup BBQ sauce; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper, to taste; Slider buns, for serving

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love how quick and satisfying these Easy Slider BBQ Lentil Sliders are to make! They perfectly capture that smoky, tangy BBQ flavor we all crave, yet they come together in just 30 minutes. The lentils provide a hearty base that absorbs the spices beautifully, making each bite incredibly flavorful. Plus, these sliders are great for gatherings or a casual family dinner. You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings, making them a deliciously versatile option for any meal.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:18:59.945Z

When I first decided to try making lentil sliders, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. After experimenting with different spices and BBQ sauces, I landed on a combination that gives these sliders a delightful kick while still keeping them cozy and comforting. I remember serving them to my friends during a casual get-together, and they couldn't believe they were plant-based!

The secret lies in simmering the lentils just right, ensuring they're tender but not mushy. I love adding a drizzle of homemade BBQ sauce just before serving for an extra layer of flavor that really wins everyone over.

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Smoky BBQ flavor that tantalizes your taste buds
Hearty lentils provide a satisfying texture
Great for meal prep and can be easily customized

      

Understanding Lentils

Using cooked lentils as the base for these sliders adds a unique heartiness that is hard to replicate with other ingredients. Lentils are not only rich in plant-based protein but also absorb flavors beautifully, enhancing the overall taste profile of the sliders. It’s essential to cook the lentils until they are tender but not mushy, as this will ensure they hold their shape when formed into patties. If you’re short on time, canned lentils can be a quick alternative—just rinse and drain them before using.

The combination of spices in this recipe complements the lentils' earthy flavor exceptionally well. Smoked paprika adds that subtle smokiness reminiscent of traditional BBQ, while cumin introduces a warm depth. Don't be afraid to adjust the spices according to your heat preference—adding a pinch of cayenne will elevate the heat, or you can incorporate fresh herbs to brighten the mix. These subtle tweaks can make the sliders uniquely yours.

Perfecting the Slider Texture

Achieving the right texture in your sliders is crucial for a satisfying bite. The breadcrumbs serve as a binding agent, providing structure to the patties. If you find the mixture too wet, you can always add a bit more breadcrumbs one tablespoon at a time until the consistency is moldable without falling apart. Alternatively, for a gluten-free option, use ground oats or gluten-free breadcrumbs; just keep an eye on the texture as they absorb moisture differently.

When shaping the patties, aim for a thickness of about half an inch. This thickness ensures a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft and flavorful interior. Overcrowding the skillet when cooking can cause steaming rather than searing; thus, cooking in batches will yield better results. Look for a golden-brown crust on each side, which will add to the sliders' overall depth of flavor.

Variations and Customizations

These BBQ lentil sliders are incredibly versatile, allowing for a multitude of toppings. Classic choices like coleslaw or pickles can add crunch and acidity, balancing out the rich BBQ sauce. For a twist, consider adding avocado for creaminess or jalapeños for an extra kick. I particularly enjoy slathering the sliders with a homemade spicy mayo, which complements the smokiness wonderfully.

If preparing for meal prep, these sliders freeze well after cooking. Just let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking. When ready to eat, they can be reheated in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This makes them an excellent option for quick weeknight meals or casual entertaining!

Ingredients

For the Sliders

1 cup cooked lentils
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup BBQ sauce
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
Slider buns, for serving

Feel free to add toppings like coleslaw or pickles for extra flavor!

Instructions

Prep the Lentils

In a saucepan, combine lentils with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 15 minutes until tender. Drain any excess water.

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils with breadcrumbs, BBQ sauce, chopped onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.

Form Sliders

Using your hands, form the lentil mixture into small patties, about the size of your slider buns.

Cook the Sliders

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil. Cook each slider for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Assemble and Serve

Place your lentil sliders on the buns and add any desired toppings. Serve warm and enjoy!

These sliders are best served fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, top with fried onions or crispy lettuce. If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the lentil mixture!

Tips for Cooking Sliders

While cooking the sliders, it’s vital to let the patties rest for a minute after cooking to allow juices to redistribute. This step can significantly enhance their juiciness and flavor, ensuring each bite is tender. If you notice that the mixture is crumbling when you try to flip them, it might be a sign that they need a bit more binding; a tablespoon of flour or additional breadcrumbs might help the cohesion.

Be attentive while cooking in batches; keeping the sliders warm in a low oven (around 200°F) can help maintain their temperature without further cooking them. This is especially helpful if you have guests and want to serve all the sliders at once, allowing everyone to enjoy them hot and fresh.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving these sliders, pairing them with a side of sweet potato fries can create a delightful contrast. The sweetness of the fries complements the smoky flavors of the sliders beautifully. Alternatively, a fresh garden salad or vegetable skewers can keep the meal light and nutritious, making it a crowd-pleaser for various dietary preferences.

Consider setting up a slider bar during gatherings, where guests can choose their own toppings and sauces. Offering a variety of condiments like mustard, hot sauce, or even a mango salsa can elevate the sliders and invite creativity, allowing everyone to craft their own perfect bite!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these sliders?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked or cooked sliders. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.

→ What can I substitute for BBQ sauce?

You can use a homemade sauce or even a spicy chili sauce for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I make them vegan?

This recipe is already vegan! Just ensure your slider buns are also vegan-friendly.

→ Can I use other legumes instead of lentils?

Absolutely! You can substitute with black beans or chickpeas, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.