Eggplant Parmesan Sliders

Name: Eggplant Parmesan Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 cups marinara sauce; 2 cups fresh mozzarella, sliced; Fresh basil leaves for garnish; Slider buns

Highlighted under: Gourmet Baking Bliss

I love indulging in comfort food, and these Eggplant Parmesan Sliders are an absolute favorite of mine! The eggplant's crispy exterior and cheesy, savory filling is simply irresistible. Every bite is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. I usually serve them during gatherings, and they're always a hit! What I appreciate most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up nutritious comfort food that doesn't skimp on flavor. Trust me, you'll find yourself revisiting this dish often.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-06T22:10:30.023Z

When I first decided to create these sliders, I wanted something that offered a unique twist on traditional Eggplant Parmesan. The idea of turning this classic dish into a portable slider struck me as genius. After several trials to achieve the perfect crispiness, I realized that salting the eggplant beforehand was key. It extracts moisture, which not only enhances the flavor but contributes to the crunch.

Each slider is layered with marinara sauce, melted cheese, and fresh basil, providing an explosion of flavor that's hard to resist. To elevate the experience, I recommend using fresh mozzarella instead of the pre-shredded kind. It melts beautifully and creates a gooey texture that makes every bite feel indulgent and satisfying.

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Crispy eggplant that adds a unique flavor and texture
Melted mozzarella and marinara create a deliciously cheesy experience
Perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in

      

Perfecting Your Eggplant

To achieve that ideal crispy texture, selecting the right eggplants is crucial. Look for firm and smooth-skinned varieties, as they tend to have fewer seeds and a less bitter flavor. It’s best to work with medium-sized eggplants since they have a greater flesh-to-skin ratio, which contributes to the overall creaminess when baked. Remember to avoid over-salting during the initial step. The goal is to draw out moisture without making the eggplants overly salty.

When you allow the sliced eggplants to rest with salt, this process not only reduces moisture but also enhances flavor and tenderness. After 15 minutes, a visible sheen will appear on the eggplants. Be sure to rinse them well, as excess salt can affect the dish's overall balance. Patting them dry with a paper towel is essential to ensure the breading adheres properly while frying, leading to a satisfying crunch upon biting into the slider.

Breading and Frying Techniques

For the breading, you can mix in different spices or herbs with the breadcrumbs to customize flavors according to your preference. If you're searching for a gluten-free version, consider using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs as a substitute. Experimenting with additional spices like paprika or garlic powder can elevate the flavor profile further. Make sure each eggplant slice is well-coated—this helps form that beautiful crust during frying, crucial for texture contrast with the melted cheese.

When frying in olive oil, it’s important to monitor the heat closely; medium heat allows the eggplants to cook evenly without burning. You’ll want to watch for that golden-brown color, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side. If the heat is too high, you risk cooking the outside while leaving the inside soggy. If you have extra slices bubbling away, place them on a wire rack instead of a paper towel to keep them crispy before serving.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Eggplant Parmesan Sliders!

Ingredients

2 medium eggplants
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups fresh mozzarella, sliced
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Slider buns

Make sure to have all these ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create mouthwatering Eggplant Parmesan Sliders!

Prepare the Eggplants

Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and pat them dry with paper towels.

Breading the Eggplant

In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Dip each eggplant slice into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated.

Fry the Eggplants

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Assemble the Sliders

Spread a spoonful of marinara sauce on the bottom half of each slider bun. Add a slice of fried eggplant, followed by a generous slice of mozzarella cheese. Top with more marinara sauce and fresh basil.

Finish Baking

Place the assembled sliders on a baking sheet and broil until the cheese is bubbly and golden, about 3-5 minutes. Remove and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Eggplant Parmesan Sliders, perfect for any occasion!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a layer of pesto on the buns or topping with sliced avocado for a fresh twist.

Serving Suggestions

These Eggplant Parmesan Sliders are versatile and can be served with various sides to complete your meal. A fresh arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette offers a bright contrast to the richness of the sliders. Alternatively, consider pairing them with homemade sweet potato fries for added texture and a hint of sweetness. For a heartier option, you can also serve them with creamy polenta or a side of roasted vegetables for a comforting dish.

If you're entertaining, feel free to add a DIY toppings bar with options like roasted red peppers, pickled jalapeños, or a selection of different cheeses. This way, guests can customize their sliders, making the meal interactive and fun. Additionally, serving the sliders on a large platter or cutting board invites everyone to dig in, fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing ahead of time can make serving these sliders a breeze at gatherings. You can bread and fry the eggplant slices a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture, and they’ll stay crisp until you’re ready to assemble. Just warm them briefly in the oven before adding to the slider buns for a fresh-off-the-stovetop experience.

If you have leftovers, you can store assembled sliders in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and the bread is toasted. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the bread soggy. For long-term storage, consider freezing the breaded but uncooked eggplant slices, which you can fry fresh whenever you're craving these sliders.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and bread the eggplant slices in advance, then fry them just before serving.

→ What if I don’t have slider buns?

You can use any type of bread or even lettuce wraps to create a low-carb version.

→ Can I bake the eggplant instead of frying it?

Absolutely! Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

→ Are these sliders vegetarian?

Yes, these sliders are completely vegetarian and can also be made gluten-free using gluten-free breadcrumbs.