Easy Slider BBQ Lentil Sliders

Name: Easy Slider BBQ Lentil Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked lentils; 1 cup BBQ sauce; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 slider buns; Lettuce, tomato, and avocado for toppings

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love whipping up these Easy Slider BBQ Lentil Sliders for a quick meal or when I'm entertaining friends. The combination of earthy lentils and zesty barbecue sauce creates a hearty yet satisfying bite. Each slider is perfectly nestled between soft buns and topped with fresh veggies. It’s a simple recipe that packs a flavor punch without the fuss, making it perfect for any occasion. Plus, they’re so easy to customize based on what I have in my pantry. Trust me, you’re going to want to keep this one in your recipe collection!

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:37:14.298Z

When I first experimented with lentil sliders, I was amazed at how versatile and delicious they turned out. The secret lies in using a good-quality BBQ sauce that complements the lentils without overpowering them. I find that letting the mixture rest after cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite unforgettable.

Another tip I discovered is to serve these sliders with a crunchy coleslaw or pickled onions. It’s a simple addition that adds texture and a refreshing contrast to the tender lentil patties. Trust me, once you try these sliders, they’ll become a staple at your gatherings!

        Why You Will Love These Sliders
        Deliciously smoky barbecue flavor with a hint of sweetness from the lentils
Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners
Nutritious and high in fiber, ideal for plant-based eaters

      

Perfecting the Lentil Consistency

Cooking the lentils to the right texture is crucial for sliders that hold together without falling apart. Make sure to monitor them closely as they simmer; overcooked lentils can become mushy and lose their structural integrity. Aim for a tender but not mushy texture—usually around 20 minutes of simmering should do it. After cooking, drain any excess water thoroughly to prevent the slider mixture from becoming soggy.

If you’re short on time, canned lentils can be a great shortcut. Just ensure they are well-drained to remove excess liquid. Reserve your cooking liquid for soups or stews, which can add flavor to other dishes. This way, you can whip up these sliders in no time!

Sautéing for Flavor Development

When sautéing the onion and garlic, don’t rush the process. Allowing them to cook until the onion is translucent (about 5-7 minutes) helps develop a rich base flavor that is essential for the sliders. This step not only enhances the overall taste but also brings out the natural sweetness in the onion, balancing the smokiness of the BBQ sauce.

Using a good-quality olive oil or grapeseed oil can enrich the flavor of the vegetables. If you like a kick of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during this step. It’s a simple way to elevate the dish while sticking to the recipe’s essence.

Component Variations and Customizations

These sliders are incredibly versatile and can be customized based on what's in your pantry. Try swapping out the BBQ sauce for a homemade version by mixing tomato sauce with your choice of spices for a fresher taste. If you're avoiding gluten, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even ground oats instead; they’ll work just as well to bind the sliders together.

For toppings, feel free to use sautéed bell peppers or even pickled jalapeños to add a burst of flavor. A drizzle of ranch or a vegan mayo can elevate the sliders. If you're up for an experiment, add a spoonful of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture for an extra zing.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start making your sliders:

Sliders Ingredients

1 cup cooked lentils
1 cup BBQ sauce
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slider buns
Lettuce, tomato, and avocado for toppings

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Easy Slider BBQ Lentil Sliders:

Prepare the Lentils

In a saucepan, bring water to a boil and add the lentils. Cook for about 20 minutes, or until tender, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.

Mix the Ingredients

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

Form the Sliders

Shape the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter.

Cook the Sliders

In the same skillet, cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.

Assemble and Serve

Place the cooked patties on slider buns and top with lettuce, tomato, and avocado. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Enjoy your delicious homemade sliders!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite toppings or switch up the BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile. These sliders also freeze well, making them a great meal prep option!

Storage Tips

These sliders can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prep. Once cooked, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Just reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side until warmed through and slightly crispy again. This brings back their golden texture without drying them out.

If you want to store these sliders for a longer period, consider freezing them. Once fully cooked and cooled, place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the sliders with a side of coleslaw or sweet potato fries to create a satisfying meal. The crunch of the slaw complements the softness of the lentil patty, while the fries add a delightful contrast. You can even prepare a simple avocado dip as a side for an extra creamy bite.

For a fun twist, consider turning these sliders into a platter-style meal. Lay out the buns, patties, and a variety of toppings—like sliced pickles, jalapeños, or a tangy slaw—so guests can customize their sliders. This not only encourages creativity but also makes for an interactive dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils for this recipe?

Yes, canned lentils can be used. Just rinse and drain them before mixing with other ingredients.

→ How do I make these sliders gluten-free?

You can substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats to maintain the texture.

→ Can I prepare the slider mixture in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the slider mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you're ready to cook.

→ What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

A smoky or tangy BBQ sauce works best, but feel free to use your favorite for a personal touch.