Sweet Potato Sliders
Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Ideas
I absolutely love making Sweet Potato Sliders for gatherings or a cozy night in. The combination of the sweet, velvety potato with savory toppings creates a flavor explosion that always impresses my guests. Plus, these sliders are incredibly versatile! I often switch up the toppings based on what I have on hand, making them perfect for any occasion. When I discovered just how easy they are to whip up, I knew I had found a winner that would become a regular in my recipe rotation.
When I first experimented with Sweet Potato Sliders, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they turned out. The natural sweetness of the potatoes paired with the savory toppings made for a delightful bite. I decided to add some spices for an extra kick, and it transformed the dish. Making these sliders has become a go-to for me whenever I want something comforting and satisfying.
One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. I’ve tried various toppings, from avocado to spicy aioli, and each one brings a unique flavor profile. This versatility ensures there's something for everyone, making them perfect for parties or quiet meals at home!
Why You'll Love These Sweet Potato Sliders
- Deliciously sweet and savory flavor that delights your taste buds
- Perfectly sized for snacking or as a meal
- Quick and easy to prepare—ideal for weeknight dinners
Mastering the Sweet Potato Base
The sweet potato is the star of this slider, providing both flavor and texture. When selecting sweet potatoes, choose firm ones with smooth skin, avoiding any that have blemishes. After peeling and cubing them, boiling until tender is crucial; aim for about 15 minutes, as overcooking can lead to a watery mixture. Ideally, they should be fork-tender but not falling apart, allowing for easy mashing without excess moisture, which could affect the slider consistency.
Once boiled, let the sweet potatoes cool slightly before mashing. This prevents burns and gives a better overall texture. The key is to mash them until smooth, incorporating air for lightness. However, don’t over-mash—small lumps can add a delightful texture to the sliders. Season well while mashing; the sweet potato itself is naturally sweet, so balancing it with savory ingredients is essential to achieve a harmonious flavor.
Customizing Your Sliders
The versatility of these sliders is one of their best features. While the provided toppings are delicious, feel free to experiment based on your preferences or what you have available. For a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños either to the slider mix or as an additional topping. If you're a cheese lover, a slice of pepper jack melted on top during the final moments of cooking can elevate the flavor beautifully.
For a healthier twist, substitute quinoa with chickpeas or black beans, which also add protein. If breadcrumbs are a concern, using crushed nuts or even ground oats can work excellently as a binding agent. Just remember that the sliders need some substance; ensure whatever substitute you choose can hold the mixture together as it cooks while allowing those sweet and savory notes to shine through.
Storing and Reheating
These sliders can be made ahead of time, making them a perfect option for meal prep. Once cooked, allow them to cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container; they can last up to 4-5 days. When ready to eat, reheat them in a skillet on medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil, flipping occasionally for an even warm-up. This method keeps them crispy on the outside without drying out.
If you're considering freezing the sliders, do so after cooking. Wrap them individually before placing them in a freezer-safe bag, ideally consuming them within two months for the best taste. To reheat from frozen, bake them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. This helps restore their texture and flavor, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready at a moment's notice.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your Sweet Potato Sliders:
For the Sliders
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
For the Toppings
- Avocado slices
- Sliced pickles
- Spicy aioli
- Fresh cilantro
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking steps!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your mouthwatering Sweet Potato Sliders:
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, then boil them in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes. Stir in quinoa, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Form the Sliders
Shape the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches wide. Make about 12 sliders.
Cook the Sliders
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliders and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Assemble and Serve
Top each slider with avocado slices, pickles, spicy aioli, and cilantro, then serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious Sweet Potato Sliders!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different toppings and spices to suit your taste. These sliders also freeze well, so you can prepare them in advance for quick meals later on.
Flavor Pairing Ideas
When serving these sliders, consider offering a variety of dipping sauces to enhance the flavor profile. A tangy yogurt-based sauce with lemon juice and garlic can provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet potato's sweetness. Alternatively, a simple chimichurri made with fresh herbs can elevate the dish even further, bringing brightness and herbaceous notes that complement the savory ingredients beautifully.
For a heartier meal, you can serve these sliders with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. The crunch of a salad topped with a zesty dressing works well against the softness of the sliders. Including elements like roasted bell peppers or a balsamic reduction can tie the flavors of the dish together elegantly.
Scaling the Recipe
Should you wish to scale this recipe for a larger gathering, it's straightforward to multiply the ingredients. Keep in mind that the cooking time may need slight adjustments if you're using multiple skillets or baking trays. Cooking the sliders in batches can ensure they're uniformly cooked and crispy, so I recommend keeping them warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) while you finish cooking the rest.
If you're planning to use a different type of potato, such as regular white or russet potatoes, adjust the boiling time, as they may take a few more minutes to soften. Regardless of the potato variety, always ensure they’re fork-tender for the best slider texture. This way, you can enjoy delicious results regardless of what’s on hand.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sweet potato mixture, form the patties, and refrigerate them until you're ready to cook.
→ What can I substitute for quinoa?
You can use cooked rice or even finely chopped vegetables as a substitute for quinoa.
→ Are these sliders vegan?
Yes, as long as you use vegan-friendly toppings like avocado and omit any animal-based sauces.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet before serving.
Sweet Potato Sliders
I absolutely love making Sweet Potato Sliders for gatherings or a cozy night in. The combination of the sweet, velvety potato with savory toppings creates a flavor explosion that always impresses my guests. Plus, these sliders are incredibly versatile! I often switch up the toppings based on what I have on hand, making them perfect for any occasion. When I discovered just how easy they are to whip up, I knew I had found a winner that would become a regular in my recipe rotation.
Created by: Allegra Stone
Recipe Type: Modern Comfort Food Ideas
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 12 sliders
What You'll Need
For the Sliders
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
For the Toppings
- Avocado slices
- Sliced pickles
- Spicy aioli
- Fresh cilantro
How-To Steps
Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, then boil them in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes. Stir in quinoa, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Shape the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches wide. Make about 12 sliders.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliders and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Top each slider with avocado slices, pickles, spicy aioli, and cilantro, then serve warm.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different toppings and spices to suit your taste. These sliders also freeze well, so you can prepare them in advance for quick meals later on.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g