Easy Slider BBQ Lentil Sliders

Name: Easy Slider BBQ Lentil Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked lentils; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup BBQ sauce; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for frying; Slider buns; Lettuce; Pickles; Sliced avocado (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I’ve always loved a good slider, and these Easy Slider BBQ Lentil Sliders are my latest obsession! They’re not only simple to make but also bursting with flavor thanks to the savory lentils combined with tangy barbecue sauce. I enjoy serving these during get-togethers, as everyone appreciates a tasty vegetarian option that satisfies even the most dedicated meat lovers. The sliders are easy to assemble, and the sweetness from the BBQ sauce complements the earthy lentils beautifully, making them a hit for both kids and adults alike.

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:55:11.648Z

When I first decided to make lentil sliders, I was skeptical about how well they'd hold together, but I was pleasantly surprised. After cooking the lentils and mixing them with spices, breadcrumbs, and barbecue sauce, I shaped them into small patties that held their form beautifully. The texture is surprisingly satisfying, and each bite offers a delightful medley of smoky sweetness.

What truly elevates these sliders is the finishing touch—grilling them for a few minutes gives them an irresistible char! If you can, serve them with fresh toppings like avocado or pickles. These add a pop of freshness and take the flavor to another level!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein and fiber from lentils
Smoky BBQ flavor that satisfies cravings
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings

      

Texture and Flavor Balance

The combination of cooked lentils and breadcrumbs forms the perfect base for these sliders. Lentils are naturally creamy and earthy, providing a hearty texture that holds up well during cooking. The breadcrumbs act as a binding agent, giving the patties structure. Frying them until they are golden brown helps to develop a crispy exterior, which adds a satisfying contrast to the tender insides. Achieving this balance of textures is key to making these lentil sliders truly irresistible.

When it comes to flavor, the spices play an essential role. Smoky paprika contributes depth, while cumin adds warmth, creating a savory foundation that pairs beautifully with the sweet tang of barbecue sauce. This complex flavor profile ensures that no bite is bland. For a more intense flavor, you could try mixing in some chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, or even experimenting with a touch of chili powder if you're in the mood for heat.

Customizing Your Sliders

One of the best parts about these Easy Slider BBQ Lentil Sliders is how customizable they are. You can adjust the toppings to your taste. Consider adding sliced jalapeños for spice, or swapping the pickles for coleslaw for a refreshing crunch. You might also experiment with different types of slider buns—whole wheat, brioche, or even gluten-free options can work wonderfully here. Don't hesitate to get creative with your toppings; they can elevate the slider to a whole new level.

If you're catering to dietary restrictions, these sliders can easily adapt. Swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives, or replace the BBQ sauce with a homemade version to control sugars and additives. For a vegan option, ensure that your slider buns don’t contain dairy and consider using avocado or a vegan mayo as a creamy topping. By tailoring the sliders to accommodate different dietary needs, you can create a dish that everyone can enjoy flexibly.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious sliders:

For the Sliders

1 cup cooked lentils
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup BBQ sauce
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying

For Serving

Slider buns
Lettuce
Pickles
Sliced avocado (optional)

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your sliders:

Prepare the Lentil Mixture

In a bowl, combine cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, BBQ sauce, chopped onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.

Form the Sliders

Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate.

Cook the Sliders

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the lentil patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

Assemble the Sliders

Place cooked patties on slider buns, adding lettuce, pickles, and avocado, if using.

Serve

Enjoy your Easy Slider BBQ Lentil Sliders warm with extra BBQ sauce on the side!

These sliders are best enjoyed fresh, but you can also store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add different spices or herbs to customize the flavor of your sliders. You can also experiment with different sauces like honey mustard to switch things up!

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing the lentil mixture in advance can save you a lot of time on busy days. You can store the uncooked lentil patties in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This not only allows the flavors to meld but also enhances the slider’s texture. Just ensure that you cover them well to prevent them from drying out or absorbing unwanted odors from the fridge.

If you’d like to prepare these sliders further in advance, consider freezing the uncooked patties. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before cooking as directed for perfectly fresh sliders.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders are delightful on their own, but serving them with sides can take your meal to a new level. Pair them with sweet potato fries or a vibrant salad to create a well-rounded meal. A tangy slaw can also complement the BBQ flavors perfectly, adding a crunchy texture and contrasting taste that enhances the overall experience.

For a unique twist, consider transforming your sliders into a slider platter. You can create a variety of slider styles using the same lentil mixture but varying the toppings and sauces. For instance, a Mediterranean version can include tzatziki sauce and cucumber, while an Asian-inspired version can feature sesame slaw and sriracha. This not only adds visual appeal but also allows guests to enjoy multiple flavors in one sitting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these lentil sliders gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to ensure they are gluten-free.

→ How long can I store leftover sliders?

Leftover sliders can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the uncooked patties?

Absolutely! Just freeze them separated on a baking sheet and transfer to a bag once frozen.

→ What can I use instead of lentils?

You can substitute with cooked black beans or chickpeas for a different flavor!