Easy Slider Crispy Mushroom Smash

Name: Easy Slider Crispy Mushroom Smash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups finely chopped mushrooms (cremini or button); 1/2 cup bread crumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 slider buns; Avocado or lettuce for topping (optional)

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I love making these Easy Slider Crispy Mushroom Smash burgers because they’re packed with flavor and are so easy to prepare. The earthy umami from the mushrooms perfectly complements the buttery slider buns, creating a delightful bite that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re a fantastic vegetarian option that even meat-lovers rave about! I can throw these together in about 30 minutes, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

Created by

Elodie Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:49:35.358Z

When I first experimented with mushroom sliders, I was surprised by how satisfying they could be. I aimed to replicate that classic burger experience, but with mushrooms as the star. The trick was to smash the mushrooms while they cook, which amplifies their flavor and gives that delightful crispy texture. It worked beautifully!

After a few tries, I discovered that a touch of soy sauce really enhances the umami profile of the mushrooms. I love how these sliders can be customized with different toppings, but I personally enjoy them with creamy avocado and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a refreshing contrast. Trust me, these will quickly become a favorite!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Savory mushroom flavor that satisfies any craving
Crispy exterior with a tender, juicy center
Perfect for parties or a quick family dinner

      

The Role of Mushrooms

Mushrooms are the star of this slider recipe, providing not only flavor but also a unique texture that holds the ingredients together. Choosing the right type of mushrooms can elevate your sliders significantly. Cremini mushrooms offer a deeper, earthy flavor, while button mushrooms provide a milder taste. Both varieties work well, but I find that a mix of the two enhances the umami profile even further. Make sure to finely chop them, as this will help the patties hold together better during cooking.

When chopping your mushrooms, aim for a consistency that resembles coarse sand; this will ensure they integrate smoothly with the other ingredients. It's important to squeeze out excess moisture from the chopped mushrooms after cooking them for 5 minutes, as this prevents the patties from becoming soggy. This step ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and flavorful.

Techniques for Perfect Patties

Shaping the patties can be a bit tricky, but I recommend using wet hands while forming them. This prevents the mixture from sticking to your fingers, allowing you to create uniform patties that cook evenly. Try to make them about 1/2-inch thick; this thickness allows for a desirable cooking time of 3-4 minutes per side, giving a nice golden crust without drying out the inside. If you notice cracks forming during cooking, simply press them gently back together with a spatula for a better seal.

Cooking your patties at medium heat is crucial to avoid burning while ensuring they cook through. Keep an eye on them, and look for a deep golden color on the outside before flipping. I often use a non-stick skillet with a little olive oil to achieve that perfect crispy texture. If you're making a large batch, consider baking them in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through; this frees up your stovetop for other tasks.

Serving and Variations

Once your sliders are assembled, feel free to experiment with toppings to take them to the next level. Sliced avocado adds creaminess that complements the earthy mushrooms perfectly. You might also consider your favorite sauces – a tahini sauce or a spicy aioli can add extra flavor and a little extra richness. If you want to add a crunch, consider shredded carrots or pickled jalapeños for a zingy twist.

If you're planning to make these sliders ahead of time, both the mushroom mixture and patties can be made a day in advance. Store the uncooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll maintain their flavor and texture. When you’re ready to cook them, just bring them to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking; this helps them cook more evenly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your sliders:

Slider Ingredients

2 cups finely chopped mushrooms (cremini or button)
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slider buns
Avocado or lettuce for topping (optional)

Make sure to have your toppings ready while cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your mushroom sliders:

Prepare the Mushroom Mixture

In a bowl, mix the chopped mushrooms, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, soy sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Shape and Cook

Form the mixture into small patties and heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and cook each patty for about 3-4 minutes on each side, ensuring they get crispy.

Assemble the Sliders

Toast the slider buns lightly in the skillet, then place the mushroom patties on the buns. Add your preferred toppings, like sliced avocado or lettuce.

Serve warm and enjoy your delicious sliders!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or onion powder to the mushroom mixture. You can also swap the Parmesan for a vegan cheese alternative for a plant-based version.

Storage Tips

Leftover patties can be easily stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium-low heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until warmed through. This method helps retain that sought-after crispy exterior. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but be cautious, as this might make them a bit soggy if heated too long.

If you wish to freeze your sliders, you can freeze the cooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer bag once they’re solid. They can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply cook straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Dietary Adjustments

For a vegan version of these sliders, consider using a flax egg instead of a regular egg. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. It acts as a binder just like an egg would but keeps the patties plant-based. Additionally, feel free to swap the Parmesan cheese with a nutritional yeast blend or a vegan cheese alternative to maintain that cheesy flavor without using dairy.

If you're looking to make these gluten-free, substitute the regular bread crumbs with gluten-free ones or even crushed rice crackers. This modification works great and won’t compromise the distinctive taste and texture of the sliders. Just ensure all your ingredients align with gluten-free standards, especially sauces like soy sauce; opt for tamari to keep them safe.

Creative Pairings

These sliders pair wonderfully with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. If you're hosting a casual gathering, set up a slider bar, allowing guests to choose their toppings; this interactive element makes for a fun dining experience. You could also serve them with a selection of dipping sauces like garlic aioli or spicy ketchup to entice a variety of palates.

For a hearty meal, consider serving the sliders on a bed of sautéed greens or inside large portobello mushroom caps instead of traditional buns. This transforms them into a delightful low-carb option, while still capturing the vibrant flavors. Don't hesitate to experiment with different mushrooms in the buns, too, as they provide a unique twist to the overall flavor!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.

→ Can I freeze the mushroom patties?

Absolutely! Place uncooked patties in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What kind of mushrooms work best?

Cremini or button mushrooms are ideal, but you can mix in some shiitake for added flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cooked sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.