Easy Slider BBQ Lentil Sliders

Name: Easy Slider BBQ Lentil Sliders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked lentils; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup BBQ sauce; 1/4 cup diced onion; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying; Slider buns; Lettuce leaves; Sliced tomatoes; Pickles

Highlighted under: Simple Pleasures

I absolutely love crafting these Easy Slider BBQ Lentil Sliders for casual gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. The rich flavors of BBQ sauce meld perfectly with tender lentils, creating sliders that are satisfying yet light. What I enjoy most is how simple it is to whip them up; you can have them ready in just about 30 minutes! Plus, they’re a hit with both meat-eaters and vegetarians alike, making them versatile for any occasion.

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:28:06.537Z

When I first experimented with lentil sliders, I was astounded at how flavor-packed they turned out. The texture of the lentils, combined with spices and a splash of BBQ sauce, yields an experience that’s both unique and comforting. I often tweak the spices based on what I have at home, which allows for endless variations.

I'll never forget the first time I served these sliders to friends at a backyard BBQ; I was stunned when they devoured them, asking for seconds and thirds! It made me realize that vegetarian meals can indeed be deliciously satisfying and full of flavor.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Deliciously smoky BBQ flavor that pairs perfectly with lentils
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite toppings

Perfecting the Lentil Base

The base of these sliders is tender lentils, which provide protein and texture. When cooking lentils, ensure they are simmered gently to avoid mushiness; they should be tender but still hold their shape. If you happen to have leftover cooked lentils, this is an excellent time to use them! You’ll only need about one cup, which can drastically cut down on prep time.

Smoked paprika is a key ingredient in this recipe as it adds a distinct smoky flavor that complements the BBQ sauce beautifully. If you don’t have smoked paprika on hand, regular paprika can work as well, but consider adding a drop of liquid smoke to mimic that depth. Just a few drops will elevate the flavor profile.

The Art of Shaping and Cooking

When shaping the lentil patties, make sure to pack the mixture tightly to prevent them from falling apart during cooking. If the mixture feels too crumbly, adding an extra tablespoon of BBQ sauce can help bind it together. Aim for patties about 1/2 inch thick for even cooking; thicker patties may need longer cook times, risking burnt edges while the center remains undercooked.

Cooking the sliders in a skillet over medium heat ensures that they develop a nice golden crust without burning. Keep an eye on them and flip carefully; they should release from the pan easily once a crust has formed—this usually takes about 4-5 minutes. If they tend to stick, consider using a non-stick skillet or adding a little more oil.

Ingredients

For the Lentil Sliders

1 cup cooked lentils
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup BBQ sauce
1/4 cup diced onion
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

For Serving

Slider buns
Lettuce leaves
Sliced tomatoes
Pickles

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Prepare the Lentil Mixture

In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, BBQ sauce, diced onion, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Shape the Sliders

Form the mixture into small patties, about the size of your slider buns.

Cook the Sliders

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

Assemble the Sliders

Place the cooked patties on slider buns and top with lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and pickles. Drizzle additional BBQ sauce if desired.

Enjoy your sliders fresh off the skillet!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different spices or even cheese for the sliders. You can also bake the patties for a healthier option.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders shine with fresh toppings. Consider adding avocado slices or a tangy coleslaw to introduce different textures and flavors. A drizzle of additional BBQ sauce or even a dollop of ranch dressing can elevate the entire dish, bringing more moisture and zing. If you're hosting a gathering, set up a slider bar with various toppings to encourage creativity among your guests.

For a lower-carb option, serve the patties wrapped in lettuce leaves instead of slider buns. You can also prepare grilled vegetables as a side, which pairs well with the smoky flavors of the sliders. These dishes complement each other while keeping the meal light and nutritious.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to prepare these lentil sliders in advance, you can make the lentil mixture the day before and store it in the refrigerator. This not only saves time on the day you're serving but also allows the flavors to meld. Just remember to shape the patties and cook them just before serving to ensure they are crispy and hot.

You can also freeze the uncooked patties! Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they're frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They'll keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, there’s no need to thaw — just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these sliders?

Yes! Once cooked, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

→ What can I replace lentils with?

You can use black beans or chickpeas as a substitute for lentils in this recipe.

→ How long do they last in the fridge?

These sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make them gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.