Sliders with Spicy Lentil Patties

Name: Sliders with Spicy Lentil Patties
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 sliders
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup diced onion; 1/4 cup shredded carrot; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying; 6 slider buns; Lettuce leaves; Sliced tomatoes; Sliced pickles; Any preferred sauces (e.g., sriracha mayo)

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I love making sliders because they’re the perfect bite-sized treat, and these Spicy Lentil Patties take things to a whole new level. Each slider offers a delightful crunch with a spicy kick that leaves my tastebuds dancing with joy. The combination of flavors is not only satisfying but also packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether I’m hosting a party or enjoying a quiet dinner, these sliders always impress. I can’t wait for you to try them; they truly light up any gathering!

Created by

Maeve Colchester

Last updated on 2026-01-05T17:53:34.795Z

When I first made these Spicy Lentil Patties, I didn’t expect them to be this popular! They were whipped up out of a desire to create a healthier alternative to traditional meat sliders. I experimented with spices and textures and was pleasantly surprised by the end result. The lentils hold together beautifully, providing both nutrition and flavor.

What truly sets these sliders apart is the blend of spices. I didn’t just focus on heat; I aimed for a depth of flavor that keeps you coming back for another bite. The secret? A dash of smoked paprika and a hint of cumin that perfectly balances the lentils. Trust me, your guests will be asking for the recipe!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein and nutrients from lentils
Perfect balance of spice and flavor
Versatile for various toppings and sauces

      

Key Techniques for Perfect Patties

When making these Spicy Lentil Patties, the key to achieving the perfect texture is ensuring your lentils are well-cooked but not mushy. If you accidentally overcook them, they won’t hold together well in the patties. Aim for a tender texture, and mash them just enough to allow some whole lentils for added bite and texture. Don’t skip the breadcrumbs, as they provide essential binding and create a delightful crunch when fried.

Forming the patties can be tricky if the mixture is too loose. If you find your mixture falling apart when shaping, try adding a bit more breadcrumbs or even a tablespoon of flour to help bind them together. Compact the mixture firmly while shaping, which will help maintain their structure during cooking. A light press with your palm should create a patty that holds its shape without crumbling.

Customizing Your Sliders

One of the best parts about these sliders is how adaptable they are. Feel free to get creative with the toppings! While I love the crispness of lettuce and the acidity of pickles, you can swap in avocado slices for creaminess or even add a slice of cheese for richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider incorporating roasted peppers or jalapeños for an extra kick!

For sauces, sriracha mayo is an excellent choice to complement the spiciness of the patties, but you can also use pesto, tahini, or a yogurt-based sauce. Mixing up the sauces can completely change the flavor profile of your sliders, making them versatile for different occasions. I often keep a few sauce options on hand, so my guests can customize their sliders to their liking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your sliders:

Spicy Lentil Patty Ingredients

1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup diced onion
1/4 cup shredded carrot
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

Slider Assembly

6 slider buns
Lettuce leaves
Sliced tomatoes
Sliced pickles
Any preferred sauces (e.g., sriracha mayo)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to make these delicious sliders!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Spicy Lentil Patties:

Prepare the Lentil Mixture

In a large bowl, mash the cooked lentils until mostly smooth. Add breadcrumbs, diced onion, shredded carrot, minced garlic, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until thoroughly combined.

Form the Patties

Shape the lentil mixture into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter. Make sure they are compact to avoid breaking during cooking.

Cook the Patties

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for about 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and heated through.

Assemble Slider

Cut the slider buns in half. Place a patty on the bottom half, top with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and your favorite sauce. Cover with the top bun.

Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the sliders warm and enjoy your flavorful, healthy creation!

Pair with your favorite sides for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

You can customize these sliders by adding your favorite toppings or experimenting with different spices to suit your taste. Store leftover patties in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Storage and Freezing

These Spicy Lentil Patties are perfect for meal prepping. You can shape the patties ahead of time, store them in an airtight container, and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days before cooking. If you want to make them even further in advance, consider freezing the uncooked patties. Lay them flat on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be kept this way for up to three months.

When you're ready to cook the frozen patties, there's no need to thaw them. Simply fry them straight from the freezer, increasing the cooking time by a few minutes on each side until they are golden brown and heated through. This method preserves the flavor and texture, allowing you to enjoy these delicious sliders anytime.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're hosting a larger gathering, this slider recipe scales up easily. For every batch of six sliders, consider adding one additional cup of lentils and adjusting the spices accordingly. Just make sure you have enough space on your frying pan to cook multiple patties at once without overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking. I usually fry patties in batches of four to six, maintaining the heat at medium to achieve that golden-fried exterior without burning.

To make the slider assembly process quicker when serving a crowd, set up a slider bar with all the toppings and sauces available. This not only speeds things up but allows guests to personalize their sliders. Having a variety of sauces and toppings readily available can take these tasty lentil patties from simple bites to a fun and interactive meal experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the lentil patties?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties for up to 2 months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator before cooking.

→ What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

You can use crushed oats or gluten-free breadcrumbs if you're looking for a gluten-free option.

→ Are these sliders vegan?

Yes! All ingredients used to make the patties are plant-based.

→ How can I make these patties spicier?

Feel free to add more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños to the mixture for an extra kick!