Veggie Sliders with Caramelized Mushrooms

Name: Veggie Sliders with Caramelized Mushrooms
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked quinoa; 1 cup chopped mushrooms; 1 cup grated zucchini; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 small onion, finely chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; Olive oil, for cooking; 4 whole-grain slider buns; Lettuce and tomato for topping

Highlighted under: Family Cooking

I absolutely love creating veggie sliders, and this recipe for Veggie Sliders with Caramelized Mushrooms never fails to impress. The combination of roasted vegetables and rich, sweet mushrooms not only packs a burst of flavor but also makes for a satisfying bite. I enjoy serving these sliders at gatherings, and they always disappear quickly! Whether you're a vegetarian or just looking for a lighter option, these sliders are hearty enough to keep everyone happy.

Created by

Arden Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:51:34.943Z

As I experimented with various veggie combinations for my sliders, I found that caramelizing the mushrooms brought out a sweetness that paired perfectly with the earthy flavors of roasted veggies. The method of slow cooking the mushrooms really enhances their texture and adds a richness that takes these sliders to the next level. I often add a splash of balsamic vinegar in the last few minutes for an extra depth of flavor.

When I first tried these sliders, I served them at a party, and the response was overwhelming! Guests were raving about the unique taste and the satisfying texture. I usually serve them on homemade whole grain buns for a wholesome touch, ensuring they're both delicious and nutritious.

Why You'll Love These Veggie Sliders
Savory caramelized mushrooms add a gourmet touch
Customizable with your favorite veggies and condiments
Perfectly sized for gatherings or a light weeknight dinner

The Role of Quinoa

Quinoa serves as the backbone of these veggie sliders, providing not only structure but also a nutty flavor and a good dose of protein. When using quinoa, I recommend cooking it in vegetable broth instead of water for added depth. Be sure to rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove its natural coating, saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. This simple step enhances the overall flavor of the sliders significantly.

To achieve the right texture, ensure your cooked quinoa is fluffy—overcooked quinoa can become mushy, and that's not what you want in a slider. A perfect batch of quinoa should have distinct grains that can bind together with the other ingredients. If you're short on time, consider preparing a larger batch of quinoa in advance. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it convenient for weekday meals.

Customizing Your Veggie Sliders

One of the joys of these sliders is their versatility. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can substitute them with finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots, which add crunch and sweetness. Remember that if you're using wetter vegetables like spinach, squeeze out any excess moisture to maintain the patty's integrity. This will help avoid a soggy texture in the finished product.

Feel free to experiment with spices in your slider mix! Adding a pinch of cumin or a dash of chili powder can elevate the flavor profile significantly. For a gourmet twist, consider mixing in some crumbled feta or goat cheese, which will provide a creamy component that balances the earthy flavors of the slider.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious veggie sliders:

For the Sliders:

1 cup cooked quinoa
1 cup chopped mushrooms
1 cup grated zucchini
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 small onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for cooking
4 whole-grain slider buns
Lettuce and tomato for topping

Make sure to have these toppings ready for a complete experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to whip up your veggie sliders:

Prepare the mushrooms

In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the chopped mushrooms with the onion and garlic until they are golden and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Add the soy sauce towards the end for extra flavor.

Mix the slider ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sautéed mushrooms, grated zucchini, breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, and form into patties.

Cook the patties

In the same skillet, add more olive oil if necessary, and cook the patties over medium heat for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned and crispy.

Assemble the sliders

Toast the slider buns if desired, then place a lettuce leaf on each bun, followed by the veggie patty, and top with tomato slices. Serve warm.

Serve these sliders with your choice of condiments and enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute any of your favorite vegetables into the slider mix for a personalized touch. Adding some cheese on top of the patty just before it finishes cooking can also create a delightful variation.

Storing and Reheating

These veggie sliders can be made in advance, making them perfect for meal prep or entertaining. Once cooked, let them cool completely on a wire rack. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze them, make sure they are wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

When ready to enjoy, reheat the patties in a skillet on medium heat for about 4 minutes on each side to regain their crispiness. You can also use a toaster oven or bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. If you microwave them, do it in short increments to avoid drying them out.

Serving Suggestions

While these sliders are delightful on their own, I like to serve them with a variety of condiments to elevate the dining experience. A spread of hummus or avocado on the bun adds creaminess that complements the earthy flavors of the veggies. You could also offer roasted garlic aioli, which brings a rich, zesty note that pairs beautifully with the caramelized mushrooms.

Consider side dishes that add color and texture to your meal, such as a simple salad with lemon vinaigrette or sweet potato fries. This balances out the meal and provides additional nutritional benefits. For a fun twist, try a slider bar setup where guests can customize their toppings; this approach makes serving more interactive and enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the patties in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Are these sliders gluten-free?

You can make these gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensuring that your soy sauce is gluten-free.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

Cooked lentils or beans can be a great substitute for quinoa in this recipe. Just make sure they are well-drained.

→ How spicy are these sliders?

These sliders are mild, but you can add spices such as cayenne pepper or chili flakes to up the heat according to your preference.