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 rounds; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Vegetable oil for frying; 4 whole grain slider buns; 1 cup arugula or spinach; 1 tomato, sliced; Your choice of sauce (e.g., aioli, mayo, or pesto)

Highlighted under: Easy Cooking

I absolutely love making crispy eggplant sliders for a quick and satisfying meal. The way the eggplant becomes golden and crunchy on the outside while remaining tender inside is truly delightful. I often serve these sliders at gatherings, and they never fail to impress my guests. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious, plant-based alternative to traditional sliders that everyone can enjoy. Trust me, these crispy bites will leave you craving more!

Created by

Xanthe Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:45:35.540Z

When I first experimented with crispy eggplant sliders, I was amazed at how simply preparing eggplant could elevate my meals. I remember taking my time to slice the eggplant evenly, which pays off in the cooking process. By letting the slices sit with salt, I drew out excess moisture, enhancing their crunchiness. It’s a trick I now use every time!

These sliders have become a staple in my kitchen because of how versatile they are. With fresh toppings and your favorite sauces, you can customize each slider to your tastes. I love to pair them with a spicy aioli that adds the perfect kick, making them even more irresistible!

        Why You Will Love These Sliders
        Deliciously crispy texture that satisfies all cravings
Healthy and satisfying plant-based option
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings

      

Mastering the Breading Technique

Breading eggplant can be tricky, so it's important to have a well-organized station. Start with a clean, wide workspace. Using separate bowls for flour, egg, and breadcrumbs ensures a smooth coating process. The flour helps moisture cling to the egg, while the breadcrumbs provide that satisfying crunch. Using panko instead of regular breadcrumbs can enhance the texture even further, giving you an extra-crispy bite. Make sure to gently shake off excess flour after coating to avoid clumping.

When frying, controlling the oil temperature is key. If the oil is too hot, the breadcrumbs will burn before the eggplant cooks through. Conversely, if it’s not hot enough, the eggplant will absorb too much oil and become greasy. A good rule of thumb is to heat the oil over medium heat until it shimmers. You can test the heat by dropping in a small piece of bread; it should sizzle immediately.

Customizing Your Sliders

These crispy eggplant sliders are incredibly versatile. You can experiment with different sauces to elevate the flavors. For a spicier kick, try adding sriracha or a chipotle aioli. For a sweeter touch, a balsamic glaze drizzled on top pairs wonderfully with the earthiness of the eggplant. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can also add another layer of flavor that complements the sliders beautifully.

Feel free to swap out the bun for a gluten-free alternative or even use lettuce wraps for a low-carb version. The arugula can be replaced with any leafy green you prefer, such as kale or even shredded cabbage. This flexibility allows you to cater to various dietary preferences while keeping the sliders delicious and satisfying.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover eggplant slices, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To keep the crispy texture, place a paper towel in the container which will help absorb moisture. Reheat the eggplant slices in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This will help regain some of that crunchy exterior, but avoid using a microwave as it will make them soggy.

For meal prep, consider breading and frying the eggplant in advance, then storing them separately from the buns and toppings. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the eggplant and assemble the sliders fresh. This way, you can enjoy the sliders with that crispy texture any day of the week.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your crispy eggplant sliders:

For the Eggplant:

2 medium eggplants, sliced into rounds
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Assembly:

4 whole grain slider buns
1 cup arugula or spinach
1 tomato, sliced
Your choice of sauce (e.g., aioli, mayo, or pesto)

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready to go for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your crispy eggplant sliders:

Prepare the Eggplant

Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt on both sides and let them sit for about 20 minutes. This process helps to draw out the moisture. Rinse and pat them dry with paper towels afterward.

Coat the Eggplant

Set up a breading station with three bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese. Dip each slice of eggplant in the flour, then the eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.

Fry the Eggplant

In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Assemble the Sliders

On each slider bun, layer arugula, a slice of tomato, and two pieces of crispy eggplant. Drizzle your sauce of choice on top, then place the bun lid on.

Serve your crispy eggplant sliders warm with extra sauce on the side!

Pro Tips

Make sure to slice the eggplant evenly for consistent cooking. Experiment with different sauces and toppings to personalize your sliders!

Choosing the Right Eggplant

Selecting the right eggplant can significantly impact the taste and texture of your sliders. Look for eggplants that are firm and heavy for their size, with smooth, shiny skin. Smaller varieties tend to be sweeter and less bitter compared to larger ones. The skin should be relatively unblemished—in case you find any soft spots, that indicates overripeness and may affect the quality of your dish.

When you slice the eggplant, be consistent with the thickness—aim for about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures even cooking, resulting in a nice balance of crispy outside and tender inside. Thin slices may overcook quickly, while thicker slices could take longer and may require more oil.

Flavor Pairings for Your Sliders

To enhance the overall flavor of your sliders, consider pairing them with side dishes that complement the eggplant. A light salad, perhaps with a citrus vinaigrette, balances the richness of the crispy eggplant. Alternatively, try serving them with sweet potato fries or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Adding a layer of cheese, like fresh mozzarella or goat cheese, can elevate the sliders. A small slice melted onto the eggplant right before assembling gives a creamy contrast to the crispy texture. You can even make these sandwiches like a classic Caprese by adding fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic reduction for added depth in flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake the eggplant instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the breaded eggplant slices at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

→ What can I substitute for the eggs in the batter?

You can use a flaxseed meal mixed with water or a plant-based yogurt as an egg substitute for a vegan option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Zucchini and mushrooms are great alternatives that also work well in this recipe.