Sliders with Crispy Eggplant

Name: Sliders with Crispy Eggplant
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup flour; 2 eggs, beaten; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 burger buns; Lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles for toppings; Olive oil for frying; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love creating sliders, especially when they feature a deliciously crispy ingredient like eggplant. This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional sliders that everyone can enjoy. With a crunchy exterior and tender inside, the eggplant pairs perfectly with fresh toppings and a tangy sauce. In just a short time, you'll have a batch of sliders that are sure to impress both family and friends. Trust me, these beauties will become a staple at any gathering or quick weeknight meal.

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:16:13.758Z

Making these sliders was a delightful challenge for me, specifically perfecting the crispy eggplant. I sprinkled salt on the slices and let them sit to draw out moisture, ensuring they would fry to perfection. It’s such a simple step but makes a huge difference in texture.

I remember the first time I served these sliders at a gathering. Everyone loved the crunchy coating and savory flavors, and the fresh toppings made them even more irresistible. I recommend trying a spicy aioli for an extra kick!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crispy eggplant adds an unexpected twist to classic sliders
Fresh toppings for a burst of flavor in every bite
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Perfecting Your Breading Technique

When breading your eggplant, it's essential to keep one hand dry and the other wet. Use your dry hand for the flour and breadcrumbs to avoid a gooey mess, allowing for better coverage and less sticking. This technique can greatly enhance the texture, ensuring the eggplant achieves that coveted crispy exterior. Remember, the key is to press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the eggplant after dipping in the egg to help them adhere better during frying.

Another tip for achieving the perfect crispy eggplant is to fry in batches without overcrowding the skillet. If the pan is too crowded, the temperature of the oil will drop, resulting in soggy slices rather than the crunchy outcome you're aiming for. Maintain a medium-high heat and keep an eye on the oil, ensuring it shimmers but doesn’t smoke, usually around 350°F (175°C) is ideal for frying.

Making the Sauce Your Own

While the mayo and sriracha base in the sauce provides a great balance of creaminess and heat, feel free to get creative. Consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor or a dash of honey for sweetness, which can complement the acidity of the lemon juice beautifully. If you prefer a tangier kick, you could substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise, creating a lighter version that still maintains creaminess.

Experimenting with additional herbs and spices can elevate your sauce even further. Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley can introduce a burst of freshness, while a pinch of cumin can add an earthy depth. Just make sure to balance any strong flavors by tasting as you go; this flexibility allows you to customize the sauce to your personal preference.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started on your sliders:

For the Sliders

1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup flour
2 eggs, beaten
Salt and pepper to taste
4 burger buns
Lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles for toppings
Olive oil for frying

For the Sauce

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Ensure you have everything measured and ready for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your sliders:

Prepare the Eggplant

Sprinkle the eggplant rounds with salt and let them sit for about 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry.

Coat the Eggplant

Set up a breading station with flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in a second, and breadcrumbs in a third. Coat each eggplant slice first in flour, then dip in egg, and finally cover with breadcrumbs.

Fry the Eggplant

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sriracha, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Adjust to taste.

Assemble the Sliders

Spread the sauce on the bottom half of the burger buns, add a piece of fried eggplant, then layer with lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Top with the other half of the bun.

These sliders are best served warm. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For even more flavor, consider marinating the eggplant in olive oil and herbs before breading. This will infuse the eggplant with extra taste and moisture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover sliders or components, it's best to store them separately to maintain texture. Keep the fried eggplant in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, but remember that the breading may lose its crispness over time. You can reheat the slices in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes to restore some of that crunch.

For the sauce, store it in an airtight container for up to a week. The flavors may blend and deepen over time, enhancing its taste. If you find it too thick after refrigeration, just stir in a bit of water or lemon juice to loosen it before serving. This way, you can enjoy quick assembly of sliders on busy evenings without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these sliders with sweet potato fries or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal that feels both indulgent and light. You could also set up a slider bar with various toppings like avocado slices, roasted red peppers, or even a spicy aioli for guests to customize their creations. This interactive element can be a fun twist for gatherings.

For an elevated version, consider adding a slice of fresh mozzarella or a smear of pesto before piling on the veggies. This not only enhances flavor but also adds an Italian-inspired flair to the sliders. Feel free to experiment with different bread types, like brioche or whole wheat rolls, to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake the eggplant instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake the breaded eggplant at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier option.

→ What can I substitute for the mayonnaise?

You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option or a vegan mayonnaise for a plant-based version.

→ How can I make these sliders gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to ensure the recipe is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to get creative! Avocado, roasted peppers, or a slice of cheese can all be great additions to your sliders.