Sliders with Spicy Lentil Patties

Name: Sliders with Spicy Lentil Patties
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils, rinsed and drained; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 slider buns; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Ideas

I absolutely love making sliders with spicy lentil patties because they balance flavor and health perfectly. Each bite offers a punch of spiciness complemented by the earthy flavor of lentils. I enjoy experimenting with different toppings and sauces to elevate the dish. It's a crowd-pleaser, whether for a weeknight dinner or fun gatherings. Plus, they’re easy to whip up and are a fantastic way to sneak in some plant-based protein without sacrificing taste or texture. You can even customize them to fit your taste preferences!

Created by

Lorna Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:33:34.261Z

Making sliders with spicy lentil patties has become one of my favorite activities in the kitchen. One day, I decided to create a healthy yet satisfying meal for my friends, and these sliders were the answer. I soaked the lentils overnight and combined them with spices that packed a punch. Each patty turned out to be surprisingly meaty while still being completely plant-based. The best part was watching my friends devour them!

After a few iterations, I found that adding finely diced onions and breadcrumbs helped bind the patties while keeping them moist. I also discovered that pressing the patties slightly before cooking helps them hold together better. The versatility of toppings is endless; I often serve them with avocado and a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor. Try them at your next gathering!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Spicy and satisfying, perfect for flavor lovers
Nutritious lentils packed with protein and fiber
Quick to make, with minimal cleanup required

      

Perfecting Your Lentil Patties

The key to making flavorful and cohesive lentil patties lies in the choice of lentils. I recommend using green or brown lentils for their firm texture, which helps the patties hold together while cooking. Avoid red lentils, as they tend to become mushy and do not provide the structure needed. After boiling, make sure to drain any excess liquid properly; the mixture should be moist but not overly wet, as this can prevent the patties from browning nicely in the skillet.

Spices play a crucial role in elevating the flavor of your lentil mixture. Adjusting the levels of cumin, paprika, and cayenne can be tailored to your spice tolerance, but I suggest starting with the listed amounts for the best balance. If you enjoy deep flavors, consider adding a tablespoon of soy sauce or tamari to the mixture, which will enhance the umami and add moisture. Remember to taste the mixture before forming patties; this step ensures your sliders are seasoned perfectly.

Assembling and Serving Your Sliders

When it comes to assembling your sliders, the bun choices can significantly affect the overall experience. While traditional slider buns work well, consider using whole grain or gluten-free buns for added health benefits or dietary restrictions. Additionally, toasting the buns lightly before assembly adds a delightful crunch and enhances the flavor, giving your sliders a professional touch.

Toppings are where you can personalize your sliders to cater to different tastes. Smooth slices of avocado or a dollop of spicy aioli can enhance the spiciness of the patties, while fresh lettuce and tomato add both color and freshness. For a twist, try adding pickled red onions or jalapeños for an extra punch. This is also a great opportunity to showcase your favorite sauces—think BBQ, ranch, or even a homemade salsa to elevate your dish further.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Sliders

Gather everything you need for making delicious sliders in no time!

Spicy Lentil Patties

1 cup lentils, rinsed and drained
2 cups vegetable broth
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slider buns
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Feel free to mix and match sauces and toppings to your liking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your sliders.

Cook the Lentils

In a saucepan, combine lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until tender.

Prepare the Mixture

In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until translucent. Add to the cooked lentils along with cumin, paprika, cayenne, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Form the Patties

Shape the lentil mixture into burger-sized patties. If too crumbly, add a little water until they hold together.

Cook the Patties

Heat some oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Assemble Sliders

Place cooked patties in slider buns and add your favorite toppings like avocado or sauce. Garnish with cilantro.

Enjoy your delicious sliders warm!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the patties in your favorite sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. Additionally, you can experiment with different spices to customize the heat level according to your preference.

Make-Ahead Tips

These lentil patties are fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare the lentil mixture a day in advance, just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge. If you're making a larger batch, feel free to freeze the formed patties. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They'll keep well for up to three months and can be cooked from frozen, adding only a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

When reheating patties, do it in a skillet for the best texture. Preheat the skillet to medium heat with a light drizzle of oil, and cook each side for about four to five minutes until warmed through and crispy again. The microwave works in a pinch, but it tends to make the patties a bit soggy. If you're in a hurry, simply heat for 30 seconds, flipping halfway, and be prepared for a softer texture.

Common Troubleshooting

If your patties are falling apart during cooking, it usually indicates too much moisture in the mixture. To fix this, you can mix in a bit more breadcrumbs or let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow it to absorb some of the moisture. On the other hand, if they seem too dry or crumbly when shaping, adding a teaspoon of water or a bit of olive oil can help achieve the right consistency without compromising flavor.

It's always a good idea to make a mini test patty before cooking the entire batch. This allows you to gauge seasoning and texture without letting all your efforts go to waste. Cook the test patty for about five minutes on each side, and adjust your spices or binding ingredients accordingly. These little adjustments can ensure that every slider you serve is spot on with texture and taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the patties ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the patties and refrigerate them for up to two days before cooking.

→ Are these sliders gluten-free?

You can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour.

→ Can I freeze the patties?

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

→ What toppings do you recommend?

I love toppings like avocado, spicy mayo, or a fresh slaw for some crunch!