Sweet Potato Sliders
Highlighted under: Rustic Cooking
I absolutely love these Sweet Potato Sliders! Their combination of soft, sweet potato patties with savory toppings creates a delightful bite that suits any occasion. Preparing these sliders allows me to explore different flavor profiles—from spicy to tangy—ensuring that each batch offers a unique twist. Plus, they are visually stunning on any plate, making them perfect for gatherings or a casual weeknight dinner. You can whip them up quickly, and they’re a fun alternative to traditional burgers that even meat-eaters can appreciate.
Creating these Sweet Potato Sliders has been a delightful journey for me. I remember the first time I tried combining sweet and savory flavors, and it instantly clicked! By baking instead of frying the patties, I maintain their natural sweetness while keeping them healthier. I also love experimenting with the toppings—avocado and spicy aioli typically make a recurring appearance in my kitchen!
One of my favorite details about this recipe is the addition of spices to the sweet potato mixture. It really amplifies the flavor! I suggest using garlic powder and smoked paprika for that warm, inviting taste that balances perfectly with the sweet potatoes. Trust me; you won't want to skip this step!
Why You'll Love These Sweet Potato Sliders
- Delightfully sweet and savory combination
- Vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing flavor
- Perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to parties
Perfecting the Sweet Potato Patties
To achieve the ideal texture for your sweet potato sliders, it's crucial to not over-mash the sweet potatoes. Leave a few small lumps for added texture, as a completely smooth mixture can lead to gummy patties. When mixing in the breadcrumbs and cheese, use your hands for better consistency; this allows you to gauge how the ingredients are binding together. If the mixture feels too wet, simply add more breadcrumbs a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired shape.
When forming your patties, keep in mind that uniformity is key. Aim for slider-sized patties that are about 1/2 inch thick. This thickness ensures even cooking and helps retain moisture, allowing them to be golden and crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside. If they are too thick, they may not cook through completely, so a little bit of practice will help you get it right. Consider using a cookie cutter for perfectly round shapes.
Choosing the Right Toppings
The toppings you choose can elevate your sweet potato sliders to new heights. Avocado not only adds a creamy texture but also provides healthy fats that balance the sweetness of the patties. For those who enjoy a spice kick, you can make a simple spicy aioli by mixing mayo with sriracha or chili powder—start with a teaspoon of sriracha and adjust according to your heat preference. This will create a delightful contrast and enhance the flavor profile of the sliders.
Don't overlook the importance of freshness in your toppings. Using fresh spinach or arugula adds a peppery flavor and a pop of color. Pickled red onions bring acidity and crunch that cuts through the richness of avocado and aioli. For added texture, try thinly sliced cucumbers or radishes. Feel free to mix and match these toppings based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand; the sliders are versatile!
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to prepare your delicious sliders:
Sliders
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Olive oil, for frying
- Slider buns, for serving
Toppings
- Avocado slices
- Spicy aioli or mayonnaise
- Fresh spinach or arugula
- Pickled red onions
With all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the next step!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Sweet Potato Sliders:
Cook Sweet Potatoes
Boil the cubed sweet potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
Mash and Mix
In a mixing bowl, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Add breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Fold in the chopped green onions.
Form Patties
Shape the mixture into small patties, about the size of a slider bun.
Cook Patties
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each patty for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
Assemble Sliders
Place a sweet potato patty on each slider bun. Top with avocado, spicy aioli, spinach, and pickled red onions as desired.
Now enjoy your delicious Sweet Potato Sliders!
Pro Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, try adding some chopped jalapenos to the sweet potato mixture for a spicy kick.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
These sweet potato sliders are perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the patties a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Just be sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When you're ready to cook, there's no need to thaw; simply fry them from the fridge. If you want to double the recipe for a party, the patties freeze beautifully. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag; they can last up to three months.
As for reheating, the best way to keep your sliders crispy is to use the oven or an air fryer. Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and reheat the patties for about 10-12 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy again. This method keeps them from becoming soggy, unlike microwaving. You can also reheat the assembled sliders in the oven, just cover them with foil to prevent the buns from burning.
Exploring Variations
While the classic sweet potato slider is fantastic as it is, there are endless variations you can explore. For instance, adding black beans or corn to the mixture can enhance the flavor and provide additional texture. You can substitute the Parmesan with feta cheese for a tangy twist or use nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly option that still delivers a cheesy flavor.
If you're in the mood for heat, consider incorporating chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper right into the sweet potato mixture. For a more exotic flavor, try adding curry powder or cumin. Each of these ingredients plays a role in transforming the basic recipe into something uniquely yours, perfect for any palate.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties in advance and refrigerate them. Just cook them fresh before serving.
→ What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
You can use nutritional yeast for a vegan option or shredded mozzarella for a different flavor.
→ Are these sliders gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make them suitable for a gluten-free diet.
→ Can I bake the patties instead of frying?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Sweet Potato Sliders
I absolutely love these Sweet Potato Sliders! Their combination of soft, sweet potato patties with savory toppings creates a delightful bite that suits any occasion. Preparing these sliders allows me to explore different flavor profiles—from spicy to tangy—ensuring that each batch offers a unique twist. Plus, they are visually stunning on any plate, making them perfect for gatherings or a casual weeknight dinner. You can whip them up quickly, and they’re a fun alternative to traditional burgers that even meat-eaters can appreciate.
Created by: Willow Harries
Recipe Type: Rustic Cooking
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Sliders
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Olive oil, for frying
- Slider buns, for serving
Toppings
- Avocado slices
- Spicy aioli or mayonnaise
- Fresh spinach or arugula
- Pickled red onions
How-To Steps
Boil the cubed sweet potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Add breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Fold in the chopped green onions.
Shape the mixture into small patties, about the size of a slider bun.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each patty for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
Place a sweet potato patty on each slider bun. Top with avocado, spicy aioli, spinach, and pickled red onions as desired.
Extra Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, try adding some chopped jalapenos to the sweet potato mixture for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g