Sweet Potato Sliders
Highlighted under: Simple Ideas
I absolutely adore making Sweet Potato Sliders for gatherings or just a cozy night in. These little bites are not only visually appealing, but they also burst with flavor. The combination of sweet potatoes and spices creates a delightful balance that’s refreshing yet hearty. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a wholesome snack, these sliders bring joy to every occasion. Plus, they are incredibly easy to customize with your favorite toppings, making them a versatile go-to recipe in my kitchen.
One evening, while experimenting in the kitchen, I decided to create a slider that was both healthy and satisfying. The outcome was my Sweet Potato Sliders, which have become a favorite among friends and family. The sweetness of the potatoes complements savory toppings beautifully, and the best part? They’re gluten-free!
During my trials, I discovered that roasting the sweet potatoes enhances their natural sweetness, making the sliders even more delicious. I love adding a dollop of avocado spread on top for creaminess, blending flavors and textures that are simply delightful. These sliders are a hit every time!
Why You'll Love These Sliders
- Colorful and eye-catching presentation
- Deliciously sweet and savory flavor
- Healthy, gluten-free option for snacks or meals
The Sweet Potato Base
The star of these sliders is undoubtedly the sweet potato, which brings natural sweetness and creamy texture. When boiled, the sweet potatoes should be fork-tender, typically around 15 minutes of cooking. It's essential to drain them well and mash until smooth to ensure a cohesive texture that holds the sliders together. If you prefer a bit of extra flavor, consider roasting the sweet potatoes instead; this method enhances their sweetness and adds a delightful caramelization.
Quinoa is not just a filler; it adds a protein boost that makes these sliders satisfying enough for a meal. By combining it with the sweet potatoes, you help create a balanced structure for the patties. If you have concerns about traditional breadcrumbs, feel free to substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed nuts for added crunch and flavor. This customization allows you to tailor the recipe to meet your dietary needs and taste preferences.
Baking Technique
When shaping the sliders, aim for a uniform size to ensure even cooking. Small patties, about 2–3 inches in diameter, cook more quickly and develop a crispy exterior. The key is to press them gently to avoid crumbling but keep them compact enough to hold their shape. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper is crucial; it prevents sticking and helps achieve even browning on all sides.
Baking at 400°F (200°C) allows the sliders to become golden brown and a little crispy without drying out. Check for doneness visually: they should have a firm texture and golden edges when ready. If you notice they are browning too quickly, you can lower the oven temperature slightly or cover them loosely with foil to prevent burning while allowing the centers to cook through.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create these tasty sliders:
For the Sweet Potato Base
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Toppings
- Sliced avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Pickled red onions (optional)
You can mix and match toppings to suit your taste!
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your Sweet Potato Sliders:
Prepare the Sweet Potato Mixture
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a pot, boil the diced sweet potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash them in a bowl. Combine with quinoa, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and fold in breadcrumbs until a dough-like consistency forms.
Shape and Bake
Form the mixture into small patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil on top and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the sliders are golden brown.
Assemble and Serve
Once baked, remove sliders from the oven. Serve on mini buns or lettuce wraps and top with avocado, cilantro, yogurt, and pickled onions if desired. Enjoy immediately!
These sliders are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize these sliders with spices like chili powder or adding more vegetables like bell peppers for added flavor.
Customizing Your Sliders
One of the best things about Sweet Potato Sliders is how versatile they are in terms of toppings. My personal favorite combination of sliced avocado and fresh cilantro adds creaminess and brightness that balances the rich flavors of the sweet potatoes. You could also try adding spicy elements, like jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha, if you enjoy a bit of heat.
For a touch of tanginess, Greek yogurt or sour cream is perfect. They provide a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the potato base. Additionally, pickled red onions offer a hint of tartness and vibrant color, elevating presentation and taste. Experiment with your toppings based on what's in season or available in your pantry!
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
These sliders are fantastic for meal prepping! You can prepare the sweet potato mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to cover it tightly to prevent drying out. When you're ready to cook, shape the patties and bake them fresh for a quick option during busy weeknights or gatherings.
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat them in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, maintaining their texture. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked patties. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. You can bake from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze the Sweet Potato Sliders?
Yes! Shape the sliders and freeze them before baking. When ready, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
→ What can I use instead of quinoa?
You can substitute quinoa with cooked rice or ground oats for a different texture.
→ Are these sliders vegan?
Yes, the sliders are vegan-friendly! Just ensure the toppings like yogurt are substituted with a plant-based version.
→ How do I know when the sliders are cooked through?
The sliders should be golden brown and firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Sweet Potato Sliders
I absolutely adore making Sweet Potato Sliders for gatherings or just a cozy night in. These little bites are not only visually appealing, but they also burst with flavor. The combination of sweet potatoes and spices creates a delightful balance that’s refreshing yet hearty. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a wholesome snack, these sliders bring joy to every occasion. Plus, they are incredibly easy to customize with your favorite toppings, making them a versatile go-to recipe in my kitchen.
Created by: Frederica Houghton
Recipe Type: Simple Ideas
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 12 sliders
What You'll Need
For the Sweet Potato Base
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Toppings
- Sliced avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Pickled red onions (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a pot, boil the diced sweet potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash them in a bowl. Combine with quinoa, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and fold in breadcrumbs until a dough-like consistency forms.
Form the mixture into small patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil on top and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the sliders are golden brown.
Once baked, remove sliders from the oven. Serve on mini buns or lettuce wraps and top with avocado, cilantro, yogurt, and pickled onions if desired. Enjoy immediately!
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize these sliders with spices like chili powder or adding more vegetables like bell peppers for added flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g