Sliders with Chickpea Smash

Name: Sliders with Chickpea Smash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; 4 slider buns; Lettuce and tomato slices for topping

Highlighted under: Home Kitchen

I've always loved sliders, and this recipe for Sliders with Chickpea Smash has truly reeled me in. With a delightful combination of spices and hearty chickpeas, I find myself reaching for these sliders time and again. They're not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare, making a perfect meal for both family dinners and casual get-togethers. The unique flavor profile ensures that every bite is an experience, leaving everyone asking for the recipe. Let's dive into how these sliders can become your new favorite!

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:14:35.250Z

When I first made these Sliders with Chickpea Smash, I was surprised at how delicious they turned out. I experimented with various spices and found that a touch of cumin and smoked paprika really takes the flavor to another level. It’s important to properly mash the chickpeas to achieve that perfect texture. This way, they hold together while still being fluffy—with each bite, you get that great crunch from the slider buns.

One tip I found particularly beneficial is to let the chickpea mixture sit for a few minutes before assembling the sliders. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, pairing them with fresh veggies and a zesty sauce elevates the overall taste, making these sliders not just a meal, but a delightful culinary experience!

Why You Will Love These Sliders
Flavor-packed chickpea smash that satisfies cravings
Easy to prepare and perfect for quick meals
Healthy ingredients without sacrificing taste

Crafting the Perfect Chickpea Smash

The chickpea smash is the star of these sliders, and the texture is crucial. When mashing, aim for a consistency that is not completely smooth; small chunks of chickpeas add heartiness and character. This mix of textures harmonizes beautifully with the crispy slider buns. I recommend using a fork or a potato masher for a good grip and control as you mash. If you have an immersion blender, you can use it briefly, but be cautious not to over-blend and create a paste.

The spices you choose play a significant role in flavor development. Cumin adds an earthy warmth, while smoked paprika introduces a subtle smokiness that brings depth to the chickpeas. If you want a little kick, you can add a dash of cayenne or some chopped jalapeños for heat. Remember, letting the mixture rest for a few minutes before forming patties allows the flavors to meld together nicely, enhancing the overall taste.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Patties

Cooking the patties is where patience pays off. Preheating your skillet correctly is essential—medium heat usually works best, but you can adjust to medium-low if your pan heats up too quickly. The goal is to achieve a golden crust on the outside while keeping the inside warm and fluffy. Avoid moving the patties around too much during cooking; let them sit undisturbed for a few minutes to ensure a nice sear.

If you find your patties are crumbling when flipping, it could be due to not compacting them enough during shaping. A compact patty is key; press the mixture tightly during formation and avoid any loose edges. If they do fall apart, a quick fix is to add a bit more breadcrumbs to the mixture, which will help bind the ingredients together better.

Customized Serving Suggestions

While the basic assembly of sliders includes lettuce and tomato, feel free to get creative with toppings! Avocado slices or spicy aioli make for a delicious addition that elevates the sliders even further. You can also try different types of buns, such as whole wheat or gluten-free, to suit dietary preferences. For a bit of crunch, shredded carrots or pickles can add a wonderful texture contrast.

These sliders also make excellent leftovers; simply store the cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in a skillet with a bit of olive oil for added crispiness. You can also freeze the uncooked patties; form them, lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to bring your sliders to life:

Chickpea Smash Ingredients

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
4 slider buns
Lettuce and tomato slices for topping

Make sure to prep all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your sliders:

Prepare the Chickpea Smash

In a mixing bowl, mash the chickpeas using a fork or potato masher until they are mostly smooth but still have some texture. Add the breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Form the Patties

Shape the mixture into 4 equal patties. Make sure they are compact to prevent crumbling while cooking.

Cook the Patties

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

Assemble the Sliders

Place each patty on a slider bun. Top with fresh lettuce and tomato slices. Serve immediately and enjoy!

These sliders are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for a day or two.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider topping your sliders with avocado or a spicy aioli. You can also substitute chickpeas with black beans for a different twist.

Ingredient Highlight: Chickpeas

Chickpeas are not just the foundation of this dish; they provide a crucial source of protein and fiber, making these sliders a filling option. Utilizing canned chickpeas not only saves time but also offers convenience. Just make sure to rinse them well to remove excess sodium from the canning process. Alternatively, you can use dried chickpeas; just soak and cook them beforehand, but this requires additional planning.

In terms of nutritional benefits, chickpeas are also rich in vitamins and minerals, including folate and iron. This makes them a fantastic choice for a satisfying and healthy meal. You can even enhance their nutritional value by adding ingredients like quinoa or finely chopped spinach to the mix, which will blend well with the chickpeas while providing additional texture and taste.

Variations on the Classic Slider

While chickpeas shine in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other legumes or beans. Black beans would work wonderfully if you want a different flavor profile; just remember to season them similarly. You could also try adding grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots to the smash for added nutrition and slight sweetness.

For those looking for a bolder flavor, consider incorporating herbs like fresh cilantro or parsley into the mixture. They not only enhance the taste but also bring a fresh pop of color to your sliders. The addition of cheese, like crumbled feta or a slice of avocado, can add richness that complements the chickpeas beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas?

Yes, you can use dried chickpeas. Be sure to soak and cook them beforehand before following the recipe.

→ How can I make these sliders gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns to make this recipe gluten-free.

→ Can I freeze the chickpea patties?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked patties for up to 3 months. Just thaw and cook when ready.

→ What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to get creative! Sliced pickles, avocado, or even a spicy jalapeño sauce pair well with these sliders.