Sweet Potato Sliders
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
I absolutely love making Sweet Potato Sliders for gatherings or a cozy meal at home. The savory flavor of the roasted sweet potatoes paired with delicious spices creates a fantastic treat everyone enjoys. I love these sliders because they are easy to prepare and full of nutrition, making them a guilt-free alternative to traditional sliders. Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as appetizers or main dishes. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you, as it’s become a staple in my home kitchen!
When I first thought of making Sweet Potato Sliders, I wasn't sure how they would turn out, but boy, was I pleased! The warm spices and the natural sweetness of the potatoes made for a delightful bite. I especially recommend using fresh herbs to elevate the flavor.
Additionally, I've discovered that allowing the sweet potatoes to cool slightly before assembling the sliders makes it easier to handle. Trust me, they won't fall apart that way! My friends always leave raving about how good they are!
Why You'll Love These Sweet Potato Sliders
- Deliciously sweet yet savory flavor combination
- Healthier alternative packed with nutrients
- Ideal for any occasion, from lunch to dinner parties
Selecting the Perfect Sweet Potatoes
When choosing sweet potatoes for this recipe, look for firm, smooth-skinned tubers without any blemishes or soft spots. The size can vary, but medium-sized sweet potatoes yield the right amount for the sliders. Depending on your preference, you can opt for orange or purple-fleshed varieties; both offer a slightly different taste and color. I often find that the orange ones become extra creamy when roasted, perfect for slathering on your buns.
Make sure to peel the sweet potatoes just before cubing them to prevent browning. It's essential to cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking—aim for about 1-inch cubes. This way, they will roast to perfection in approximately 25 minutes, achieving a wonderful caramelization that enhances their inherent sweetness.
Mashing for the Right Texture
After roasting, allow the sweet potatoes to cool slightly before mashing them. This step is crucial; if they are too hot, they can become gummy when mashed. Aim for a slightly chunky texture—too smooth can make the sliders less satisfying. You can use a fork for a rustic feel or a potato masher for a smoother consistency. Flavor the mash with an extra pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of lime juice for a tangy twist.
Measuring your sweet potato mash is also helpful. Depending on how many sliders you want to make, each bun will need about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the sweet potato mixture. This ensures that each slider is generously filled without overwhelming the bun, achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Serving and Storing Tips
For a delightful serving presentation, arrange the sliders on a platter and garnish with fresh arugula or spinach to add a pop of color and freshness. I love pairing the sliders with various toppings, such as pickled red onions or sliced jalapeños, which add an extra layer of flavor. If you're serving them at a gathering, consider offering a couple of condiment options, like spicy aioli or herbed yogurt, to cater to different palates.
If you have leftovers, store the sweet potato mash separately from the assembled sliders to keep the buns from becoming soggy. The mash can be refrigerated for up to three days; just reheat it gently in a microwave or on the stove when you're ready to enjoy more sliders. For longer storage, consider freezing the mash in individual portions. This makes it easy to whip up fresh sliders whenever the craving hits!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients before you start:
For the Sweet Potato Sliders
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 small whole grain slider buns
- Arugula or spinach for garnish
- Avocado or your favorite condiment (optional)
Once gathered, you're all set to prepare these tasty sliders!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Sweet Potato Sliders:
Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25 minutes or until tender, stirring halfway through.
Assemble the Sliders
Once the sweet potatoes are done, let them cool slightly before mashing them in a bowl. Toast the slider buns if desired. Spread the sweet potato mixture on each bun and top with arugula or spinach and optional avocado.
Enjoy your homemade Sweet Potato Sliders!
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, add jalapeños or sriracha to your sweet potato mix. These sliders also work well as meal prep – just store the components separately until you’re ready to serve.
Variations to Try
Consider mixing in other veggies with the sweet potatoes for added flavor and color—finely chopped bell peppers or onions can provide extra texture and sweetness. If you want a spicy kick, adding minced jalapeños to the potato mixture or drizzling hot sauce on top can make a wonderful addition.
For a different twist, try adding spices like cumin or coriander to your sweet potato mixture. These spices complement the natural sweetness of the potatoes beautifully and give an earthy depth to the flavor. You could also incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a refreshing note.
Healing Properties of Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. They are a rich source of fiber, vitamins (especially Vitamin A), and antioxidants which can enhance your overall well-being. The high fiber content keeps you feeling full longer, making these sliders a satisfying meal choice.
Roasting sweet potatoes caramelizes their natural sugars, creating a wonderful sweet-savory experience that makes you appreciate wholesome ingredients. Plus, with the easy preparation of these sliders, you can enjoy their health benefits without extensive cooking time.
Customize Your Slider Buns
While this recipe uses whole grain slider buns, feel free to explore other types, like gluten-free or brioche buns, to accommodate dietary preferences. If you want a crunchier texture, try toasting the buns with a little olive oil in a skillet until golden, which heightens the overall flavor experience.
You can even make your own slider buns using whole wheat flour or alternative flours like chickpea or almond flour for a healthier option. Homemade buns can be a fun activity to accompany these sliders and allow for creative flavors, such as adding herbs or spices directly into the dough.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these sliders gluten-free?
Yes! Just use gluten-free buns, and they will be perfect for a gluten-sensitive diet.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the sweet potato mixture?
Absolutely! You can freeze the mashed sweet potato mixture for up to 2 months. Thaw before using.
→ What can I serve with these sliders?
They pair nicely with a side salad, sweet potato fries, or roasted vegetables.
Sweet Potato Sliders
I absolutely love making Sweet Potato Sliders for gatherings or a cozy meal at home. The savory flavor of the roasted sweet potatoes paired with delicious spices creates a fantastic treat everyone enjoys. I love these sliders because they are easy to prepare and full of nutrition, making them a guilt-free alternative to traditional sliders. Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as appetizers or main dishes. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you, as it’s become a staple in my home kitchen!
What You'll Need
For the Sweet Potato Sliders
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 small whole grain slider buns
- Arugula or spinach for garnish
- Avocado or your favorite condiment (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25 minutes or until tender, stirring halfway through.
Once the sweet potatoes are done, let them cool slightly before mashing them in a bowl. Toast the slider buns if desired. Spread the sweet potato mixture on each bun and top with arugula or spinach and optional avocado.
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, add jalapeños or sriracha to your sweet potato mix. These sliders also work well as meal prep – just store the components separately until you’re ready to serve.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 9g
- Protein: 5g