Crispy Eggplant Sliders

Name: Crispy Eggplant Sliders
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants, sliced into rounds; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying; Fresh mozzarella, sliced; Tomato sauce; Fresh basil leaves; Balsamic glaze (optional)

Highlighted under: No-Fuss Collection

I absolutely love making these Crispy Eggplant Sliders when I'm craving something hearty yet healthy. They're a fantastic twist on traditional sliders and have become a go-to option for gatherings. The combination of crispy, breaded eggplant and zesty toppings creates a delightful flavor profile that will please even the pickiest eaters. I love how easy they are to prepare, and each bite is a satisfying crunch that makes them perfect for any occasion. You can enjoy them as a snack or light lunch, and they’re always a hit with family and friends!

Created by

Briony Ashcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:03:35.424Z

When I first made these Crispy Eggplant Sliders, I was surprised by how easily they came together and how delicious they turned out. One trick I found was to let the eggplant slices sit with salt for a while, drawing out moisture and giving them a firmer texture. This means they’re less likely to get soggy once they’re fried. I also experimented with different spices in the breadcrumbs and discovered that a hint of garlic powder really elevates the overall flavor!

Another aspect I loved about these sliders is their versatility. You can easily customize the toppings to suit your taste. I often use fresh basil, homemade tomato sauce, and a sprinkle of cheese to create a flavor explosion. Not only are these sliders fun to make, but they also bring a healthy twist to the classic slider experience, making them a delightful addition to any meal.

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Crispy texture that satisfies your crunch cravings
Hearty yet healthy, perfect for guilt-free indulgence
Versatile toppings to customize your sliders

      

Preparation Tips

When preparing the eggplant, salting it is crucial. This process helps to draw out excess moisture, resulting in a firmer texture after frying. After letting the salted slices sit for about 20 minutes, make sure to thoroughly rinse them to remove any excess salt, which can alter the flavor of the sliders. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to ensure they fry up crispy rather than soggy.

Breading the eggplant correctly can make a significant difference in texture. To achieve that perfect crispy coating, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the eggplant slices. This can be tested by dropping a breadcrumb into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go. Frying in batches prevents overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven cooking.

Flavor Variations

While the classic toppings for these sliders are delightful, feel free to customize them to suit your taste. For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding roasted red peppers or a drizzle of pesto instead of traditional tomato sauce. These additions will introduce more layers of flavor and can elevate your sliders to a gourmet level.

If you're looking for a vegan option, replace the mozzarella with slices of avocado or a vegan cheese alternative. Additionally, use a flaxseed mixture instead of eggs for the breading process. These substitutions maintain the integrity of the dish while catering to different dietary preferences.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

2 medium eggplants, sliced into rounds
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

For Toppings

Fresh mozzarella, sliced
Tomato sauce
Fresh basil leaves
Balsamic glaze (optional)

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Eggplant

Sprinkle salt on the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 20 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.

Breading

Set up a breading station: place the flour in one dish, beaten eggs in another, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in the last. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip in egg, and then coat in breadcrumbs.

Fry the Eggplant

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded eggplant slices in batches and fry until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Assemble the Sliders

Place a fried eggplant slice on a bun, top with mozzarella, a spoonful of tomato sauce, and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.

Serve

Serve immediately while hot and crispy. Enjoy your delicious Crispy Eggplant Sliders!

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For a healthier version, try baking the breaded eggplant slices in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes instead of frying them. Just spray with a little oil for a crispy finish.

Storage and Reheating

These sliders are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be aware that the crispy texture may soften during storage. To revive their crunch, reheat the eggplant slices in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes before assembling your sliders.

If you want to prep ahead of time, consider breading the eggplant slices and storing them in the refrigerator until you're ready to fry. This step can save time during your meal preparation, making it easier to whip up these delicious sliders for unexpected guests or busy weeknights.

Scaling the Recipe

The recipe can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of sliders you wish to make, keeping in mind that you may need to fry in larger batches. It’s essential to keep an eye on the oil temperature, as adding more eggplant can lower it, leading to soggier results.

Alternatively, if you want to make fewer sliders, you can halve the ingredients without sacrificing flavor. Just be mindful of the cooking time, especially for frying, as smaller batches will cook more quickly. Always adjust your frying time to ensure that you achieve that golden brown crust without overcooking the eggplant.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the eggplant ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the eggplant slices and breadcrumbs a few hours in advance, just assemble and fry them when you're ready.

→ Are these sliders gluten-free?

You can make these gluten-free by using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular flour and breadcrumbs.

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! This method works well with zucchini or Portobello mushrooms for a different flavor.

→ What should I serve with the sliders?

These sliders pair nicely with a fresh salad or homemade fries for a delightful meal!