Crispy Eggplant Sliders

Name: Crispy Eggplant Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Olive oil spray; 1/2 cup tahini sauce or your favorite sauce; 1 avocado, sliced; Fresh lettuce leaves; Sliced tomatoes; Fresh herbs (such as basil or parsley) for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Crispy Eggplant Sliders for a delicious, meat-free meal that packs a punch of flavor. The combination of crispy, oven-baked eggplant, zesty sauce, and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering treat that everyone enjoys. Whether it's for lunch, dinner, or a fun party appetizer, these sliders are a hit every time. Plus, they are simple to prepare and offer a great way to indulge in plant-based goodness without sacrificing taste. Gather the ingredients, and let's get cooking!

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:04:22.075Z

When I first tried Crispy Eggplant Sliders, I was blown away by how much flavor could come from simple ingredients. I discovered that salting the eggplant before cooking draws out excess moisture and makes it perfectly crisp when baked. I use a mix of breadcrumbs and spices to coat the slices, which adds a crunchy texture that complements the creamy toppings perfectly.

Since then, I often experiment with different toppings and sauces, like a tangy tahini or fresh avocado spread. This versatility means I never get bored with the recipe. You can easily elevate these sliders based on what you have on hand, making them a fantastic addition to my weekly meal plan!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Crispy texture that satisfies every bite
Flavorful and healthy alternative to traditional sliders
Perfect for serving guests or family gatherings

      

The Role of Eggplant

Eggplant is the star of these sliders, bringing a unique texture and flavor profile. It has a naturally creamy texture when cooked, which complements the crunch of the breadcrumbs perfectly. Moreover, eggplant absorbs flavors well, making it essential to season it properly before cooking. The salting process helps to remove excess moisture and bitterness, ensuring that the final product is crisp and flavorful. Remember to choose firm eggplants with smooth skins for the best results.

To enhance the eggplant’s flavor, consider marinating the slices in your favorite spices or sauces before breading. A quick soak in balsamic vinegar or a mixture of olive oil and herbs can add depth to each bite. If you prefer a slightly smoky taste, try grilling the eggplant slices instead of baking them for a variation on this classic recipe!

Breading Techniques

The breading technique used here is vital for achieving that delightful crispy exterior. Instead of regular breadcrumbs, you can opt for panko for an extra crunch. Panko has a coarser texture than traditional breadcrumbs, making the eggplant even crisper when baked. Make sure to coat the eggplant slices thoroughly, ensuring every edge is covered; this way, they'll retain a satisfying crunch, even as they cool.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, swap out regular flour with almond or chickpea flour. Similarly, use gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep the entire dish gluten-free without losing the essential crispy texture. Just be mindful that gluten-free breading may require some additional seasoning to amplify flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These Crispy Eggplant Sliders are incredibly versatile; mix and match toppings to suit your taste or dietary restrictions. Consider adding roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms for added depth. A dollop of yogurt or a spicy aioli instead of tahini sauce can give an exciting new spin to the sliders, enhancing the flavor with creamy richness.

To make this dish a complete meal, serve the sliders alongside a fresh salad or sweet potato fries. The refreshing crunch of cucumber or a tangy coleslaw pairs excellently with the warmth of the eggplant, balancing the meal beautifully. Additionally, these sliders can be prepped ahead; the breaded eggplant freezes well, so you can prepare a larger batch and bake them from frozen as needed!

Ingredients for Crispy Eggplant Sliders

For the Eggplant:

2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Olive oil spray

For the Toppings:

1/2 cup tahini sauce or your favorite sauce
1 avocado, sliced
Fresh lettuce leaves
Sliced tomatoes
Fresh herbs (such as basil or parsley) for garnish

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Crispy Eggplant Sliders:

Prepare the Eggplant

Sprinkle the salt evenly over the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 20 minutes. This helps to draw out excess moisture. After 20 minutes, rinse the salt off and pat the slices dry with paper towels.

Bread the Eggplant

Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with the breadcrumb mixture (mixed with garlic powder and paprika). Dip each eggplant slice in the flour, then the egg, and finally in the breadcrumbs to coat.

Bake the Eggplant

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray them lightly with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Assemble the Sliders

Once the eggplant is done, assemble your sliders by placing a crispy eggplant slice on a piece of lettuce or a slider bun, adding a slice of avocado and a dollop of tahini sauce. Top with sliced tomatoes and herbs for extra flavor.

Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips

If you want extra crispy eggplant, try double-breading the slices by dipping them in the egg a second time before coating with breadcrumbs. Also, letting them rest for a few minutes after baking will help them retain their crunch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you have leftovers, store the crispy eggplant sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore some of their crispiness compared to using a microwave, which can make them soggy.

To save time on busy days, you can prepare the eggplant slices in advance. Once breaded, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the slices to a freezer bag for up to two months. When ready to use, bake the frozen slices directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your eggplant is turning out soggy, ensure you are salting it properly and allowing it to sit for 20 minutes. It’s essential to pat them dry before breading; excess moisture leads to a less crispy finish. Additionally, a hot oven is crucial, so don’t skip the preheating step. Overcrowding the baking sheet can also trap steam, so space out the eggplant slices to promote even baking.

Another common issue is uneven browning. If this happens, consider rotating the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time to ensure even exposure to the heat. If some pieces are browning faster than others, reposition them accordingly for the best results.

Scaling the Recipe

Should you need to accommodate a larger party, scaling this recipe is straightforward. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you’ll need, keeping in mind that you may require more than one baking sheet to avoid overcrowding during baking. For larger gatherings, consider making a variety of sauces and toppings to cater to different tastes.

Additionally, you can experiment with muffin tin sliders to create mini versions of these eggplant treats. This not only makes for a fun presentation but is also a great way to control portion sizes while ensuring that everyone gets to enjoy the taste. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, checking for doneness as the mini sliders will cook faster!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the eggplant slices and store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. This saves time on the day of serving!

→ What other sauces work well with these sliders?

You can use a spicy mayo, tzatziki, or even a vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.

→ Can I fry the eggplant instead of baking?

Yes, if you prefer, you can shallow fry the breaded eggplant slices in a pan with oil until golden brown.

→ Are these sliders gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour alternatives.