Crispy Eggplant Sliders

Name: Crispy Eggplant Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; Olive oil for drizzling; Burger buns; Lettuce and tomato slices for serving; Yogurt sauce (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely adore whipping up these Crispy Eggplant Sliders whenever I want something quick yet satisfying. The eggplant's mild flavor blends perfectly with the crispy coating, and every bite is a delightful contrast of textures. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also make for a fantastic appetizer or a light meal option. Trust me, once you try them, you'll find yourself craving these sliders again and again. Plus, they’re a great way to sneak more veggies into your diet!

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:16:06.632Z

For a recent gathering, I decided to serve these Crispy Eggplant Sliders as a fun twist on traditional sliders. I was amazed at how quickly they came together and the delightful crunch they offered. By salting the eggplant beforehand, I reduced excess moisture, enhancing the crispiness and flavor. Each slider turned out beautifully golden, and everyone was asking for the recipe!

One key tip I discovered is to bake them instead of frying for a healthier option without compromising on texture. I paired them with a zesty yogurt sauce that perfectly complemented the warm eggplant, making it a dish everyone loved. It turned out to be a hit, and now I can't resist making them regularly!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Crispy outside, tender inside – a perfect balance of textures
Versatile and can be paired with various sauces or toppings
A great vegetarian option that pleases even meat lovers

      

The Role of Eggplant in Sliders

Eggplant serves as a fantastic base for sliders due to its unique ability to absorb flavors while providing a satisfying texture. When salted and allowed to sit, it draws out excess moisture, enhancing its natural flavor and ensuring that it won’t turn soggy during cooking. For the best results, choose medium-sized eggplants that are firm and glossy with minimal blemishes; this indicates freshness and optimal flavor. Avoid older eggplants as they may contain seeds and a bitter taste.

To maintain a tender inside while achieving a crispy exterior, be mindful of the cooking time and temperature. Baking at 400°F (200°C) provides a perfect balance, allowing the eggplant to cook through while developing that desirable golden crust. If they start to brown too quickly, you can cover the baking sheet loosely with foil to prevent burning, allowing the insides to cook evenly.

Perfecting the Coating Process

The three-step breading process is essential for achieving that perfect crunch on your eggplant sliders. The flour creates a dry surface for the egg to stick to, while the breadcrumbs provide the crunchy exterior. Be generous with pressing the breadcrumbs onto the eggplant slices so they adhere properly; this step significantly impacts the final texture. If you find that the breadcrumbs aren’t sticking, a light mist of water can help them cling better.

If you want to give your sliders a flavor boost, try adding grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast to the breadcrumb mix. Both options enhance the umami profile without overpowering the eggplant’s natural flavor. Furthermore, consider using panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture, as they bake up lighter and airier.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These Crispy Eggplant Sliders are versatile and can be tailored to satisfy various taste preferences. Try adding different toppings, like avocado slices or spicy aioli, to elevate your sliders. You can also switch up the greens; arugula adds a peppery note, while spinach brings a milder flavor. For a Mediterranean twist, layer in some roasted red peppers and feta cheese for added richness.

If you're making these sliders for a crowd, consider preparing and storing the baked eggplant in advance. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat them in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10 minutes to regain that crispy texture. Serving them with a variety of sauces can also cater to different guests' preferences.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients for Crispy Eggplant Sliders

2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Olive oil for drizzling
Burger buns
Lettuce and tomato slices for serving
Yogurt sauce (optional)

Now that you have your ingredients, let’s move on to the preparation!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make delicious Crispy Eggplant Sliders:

Prepare the Eggplant

Sprinkle the sliced eggplant with salt and allow them to sit for about 15 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel afterward.

Set Up Bread Stations

In three separate bowls, place flour seasoned with black pepper, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and paprika.

Coat the Eggplant Slices

Dip each eggplant slice into the flour, then the egg, and finally coat them in breadcrumbs, pressing down to adhere well.

Bake the Sliders

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through until crispy and golden.

Assemble the Sliders

Place the crispy eggplant slices on burger buns, top with lettuce and tomato, and add yogurt sauce if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy eggplant sliders!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the eggplant slices in your favorite vinaigrette before coating them. You can also experiment with different toppings like avocado or spicy aioli.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your eggplant slices are soggy after baking, it might be due to insufficient salting before cooking. Always ensure you let the salted slices rest for at least 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel before proceeding with the coating to prevent sogginess.

Another common issue is uneven cooking. It’s crucial to lay the eggplant slices in a single layer without overcrowding the baking sheet. If necessary, use two sheets to allow for proper air circulation, promoting even crispiness. Check them halfway through baking and flip each slice to ensure they're evenly golden and crispy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you follow a gluten-free diet, substituting regular flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives works perfectly. Almond flour is a great choice for the coating, and gluten-free panko is widely available, providing that crunch you desire. This way, you still enjoy the delightful textures without compromising on flavor.

For an enhanced nutritional profile, consider using whole wheat flour or even chickpea flour instead of all-purpose flour. Both options add a boost of fiber and can complement the flavor of the eggplant. Additionally, swapping out the burger buns for whole grain or lettuce wraps can create a lighter, healthier option.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips

Preparing the eggplant ahead of time can save you effort on busy days. Once coated, you can either bake them immediately or freeze the breaded slices. To freeze, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer the slices to airtight containers or zip-top bags for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy them, there's no need to thaw. Just bake them directly from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden. This makes for a convenient meal prep option, allowing you to serve fresh sliders whenever the craving strikes without compromising on taste or texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I fry the eggplant instead of baking?

Yes, frying will give you a different texture, but make sure to use plenty of oil and drain them well after frying.

→ What can I serve with the sliders?

These sliders pair well with a side salad, sweet potato fries, or even a fresh coleslaw.

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the coated eggplant slices in advance and bake them just before serving.

→ Are these sliders suitable for freezing?

You can freeze the uncooked, breaded eggplant slices. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.