Sliders with Crispy Eggplant

Name: Sliders with Crispy Eggplant
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; Salt and pepper to taste; Vegetable oil for frying; 4 slider buns; Lettuce leaves; Sliced tomatoes; Pickles

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely adore making sliders, and this recipe for Sliders with Crispy Eggplant has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of textures and flavors in each bite is simply divine. We love how the crispy eggplant stands in for meat, offering a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with fresh toppings. It’s a perfect choice for a casual get-together or a weeknight dinner when we want something a little different yet deliciously fulfilling.

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:01:19.972Z

When I first experimented with eggplant as the star of a slider, I was amazed by how versatile it could be. I dredged thick slices in seasoned breadcrumbs and fried them to a perfect golden brown. The result was not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. The key is to ensure your oil is hot enough to create that crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.

Over the years, I've learned to elevate my sliders with various toppings, such as tangy pickles and fresh greens. They add an extra layer of flavor that truly highlights the crispy eggplant. This combination has become my go-to for casual gatherings; it’s always a hit among both meat lovers and vegetarians!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Crispy texture that’s addictive
Flavorful eggplant stands in for meat
Versatile toppings for personalized flavor
A healthier take on classic sliders

      

Choosing the Right Eggplant

When it comes to selecting eggplant for your sliders, larger varieties, such as globe eggplants, work best due to their size and texture. Look for eggplants that are firm to the touch and free from blemishes. The skin should be shiny and taut, indicating freshness. If you find a particularly large eggplant, you might only need half, depending on the size of your slider buns. Remember, the key to achieving the perfect crispy texture lies in the quality of your eggplant.

It's essential to properly salt the eggplant slices after cutting them. Salting helps to draw out excess moisture and bitterness, allowing the eggplant to fry up perfectly crispy. Letting them sit for 15 minutes is usually sufficient, but you can extend this time if you have a particularly watery eggplant. After salting, be sure to rinse the slices thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels to prevent sogginess in the batter.

Frying Technique Tips

Achieving the ideal crispy texture is all about managing the frying process effectively. When frying the eggplant slices, ensure that your vegetable oil is hot enough—about 350°F (175°C) is ideal. To check if the oil is ready, drop in a small piece of breadcrumb; it should sizzle immediately. Overcrowding the skillet can lower the oil's temperature, which leads to soggy eggplant instead of a delightful crunch. Fry in batches if necessary, allowing enough space around each slice for even cooking.

During frying, keep an eye on the eggplant's color. Aim for a beautiful golden-brown exterior, which usually signifies that they are perfectly cooked. It’s also a good idea to gently press down on the slices during frying, ensuring they make contact with the pan surface, which aids in achieving an even crust. Once fried, draining them on paper towels will help absorb any excess oil, keeping them crisp and light.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying
4 slider buns
Lettuce leaves
Sliced tomatoes
Pickles

Instructions

Prepare the Eggplant

Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry.

Coat the Eggplant

Set up a dredging station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Dip each eggplant slice first in flour, then in egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.

Fry the Eggplant

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry each eggplant slice for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Assemble the Sliders

On each slider bun, layer a piece of fried eggplant, a lettuce leaf, a slice of tomato, and pickles. Top with the other half of the bun.

Serve

Serve immediately while the eggplant is crispy, and enjoy your delicious sliders!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a spicy mayo or avocado spread to your sliders. Also, try roasting the eggplant instead of frying for a lighter option.

Personalizing Your Sliders

One of the best aspects of these sliders is their versatility when it comes to toppings. You can customize your sliders with a variety of fresh ingredients like avocados, roasted bell peppers, or even a spicy aioli for an extra kick. If you want to amp up the flavors even further, consider adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or some sautéed onions to enhance the overall flavor profile. Don't hesitate to get creative based on what you have available in your kitchen!

For a different twist, try swapping out the traditional slider buns for whole grain or gluten-free options. You can even use lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist. I often enjoy using mini pita pockets, which add a unique texture and flavor. The flexibility of this recipe makes it an ideal choice for accommodating various dietary preferences while still delivering an exceptional taste.

Storage and Reheating Suggestions

If you find yourself with leftovers, you can easily store the fried eggplant in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, to maintain their crispy texture, I recommend keeping the components separate until you are ready to enjoy them again. Simply assemble the sliders just before serving to ensure the fried eggplant stays crispy.

When it comes to reheating, placing the leftover eggplant slices in an oven at 375°F (190°C) can help restore some of that lost crunch. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes, keeping an eye on them to avoid burning. Microwaving is not recommended since it tends to make them soggy. This way, you can savor that delightful crispy texture even on your second serving!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the eggplant and assemble the sliders later. However, they are best served fresh to maintain the crispy texture.

→ What can I use instead of eggplant?

You can substitute zucchini or portobello mushrooms for a similar texture and flavor profile.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover fried eggplant in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to regain crispiness.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

You can make it vegan by using a flax egg or unsweetened applesauce as a binder instead of eggs and opt for vegan buns.