Easy Slider BBQ Mushroom Smash

Name: Easy Slider BBQ Mushroom Smash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups finely chopped mushrooms (shiitake and portobello); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup BBQ sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 slider buns; Lettuce, tomato, and pickles for topping

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love hosting gatherings with friends, and one of my go-to recipes is this Easy Slider BBQ Mushroom Smash. It’s a delightfully hearty vegetarian option that never fails to impress. The combination of shiitake and portobello mushrooms, paired with a smoky BBQ sauce, creates a flavor explosion that balances perfectly with the fresh toppings. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these sliders are sure to be a hit and are so simple to whip up that I find myself making them often.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:28:07.483Z

Making these sliders was a joyful experience as I experimented with layers of flavor. The key is to finely chop the mushrooms and let them cook until they're beautifully caramelized, enhancing their umami notes. I also found that mixing them with a bit of breadcrumbs helps bind everything perfectly for that delicious smash.

To elevate the taste, I like to fry a little onion and garlic first before adding the mushrooms. It adds that aromatic element that makes the sliders irresistible. Top it off with your favorite BBQ sauce, and you will have a dish that everyone raves about!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich barbecue flavor perfectly infused into savory mushrooms
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy days or last-minute cravings
Ideal as an appetizer or a main dish at parties

      

Crafting the Perfect Mushroom Patty

The magic of these sliders lies in the mushrooms. Using both shiitake and portobello mushrooms not only creates a rich umami flavor but also adds various textures. Shiitake mushrooms contribute a lovely chewy bite, while portobellos provide that satisfying meatiness. Be sure to finely chop them to ensure even cooking and binding. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute the mushrooms with your favorite variety—just maintain a similar volume for best results.

When cooking the mushroom mixture, pay attention to moisture. Properly sautéed mushrooms should be golden brown and have released their moisture without becoming watery. This usually takes about 10 minutes over medium heat. If you find the mixture too wet, feel free to sprinkle in a bit more breadcrumbs to achieve the ideal consistency. The right texture will help your patties hold together beautifully during cooking.

Top It Off: Fresh Toppings and Sauce

While the mushroom patties pack a flavor punch, the toppings elevate these sliders. Fresh lettuce adds crunch, sliced tomatoes offer sweetness, and pickles provide a tangy contrast to the smoky BBQ sauce. Consider using different lettuce varieties, such as crispy romaine or peppery arugula, to add layers of flavor. Don’t hesitate to also throw in some avocado slices for a creamy twist that pairs well with the robust flavors of the mushrooms.

Moreover, you can customize the BBQ sauce or even make your own for an extra kick. A spicy chipotle BBQ or a sweet and tangy apple-based sauce can change the game entirely. Just keep in mind that too much sauce can make the sliders messy, so drizzle sparingly and adjust according to your preference.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning a gathering, you can prepare the mushroom mixture a day in advance. After cooking and mixing the ingredients, let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you're ready to serve, simply form patties and cook them as directed for a fresh, hot slider without the hassle.

Leftover sliders can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat to preserve their texture, flipping occasionally until warmed through. If you'd like to freeze them, keep the patties in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be baked directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

2 cups finely chopped mushrooms (shiitake and portobello)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup BBQ sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slider buns
Lettuce, tomato, and pickles for topping

Instructions

Prepare the Mushroom Mixture

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Stir in the chopped mushrooms, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown, about 10 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the breadcrumbs and BBQ sauce until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.

Form the Sliders

Shape the mushroom mixture into four equal patties. Return the skillet to medium heat and cook each patty for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden and slightly crispy.

Assemble the Sliders

Place each patty on a slider bun and top with lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Add more BBQ sauce if desired, then serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, consider adding cheese on top of the patties during the last minute of cooking. It melts beautifully and adds creaminess to the sliders.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders make a fantastic standalone dish, but they can also be served alongside sides for a full meal experience. Consider pairing them with sweet potato fries or a zesty coleslaw that can cut through the richness of the BBQ sauce. For a healthier option, serve with a side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to complement the flavors without overwhelming them.

For a fun twist, you can also turn these sliders into a slider platter. Offer a variety of burger toppings like sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, or even a cheese option like sharp cheddar. This interactive dining experience is sure to keep your guests engaged and allows everyone to enjoy a custom slider.

Variations to Try

Feel free to play with the herbs and spices in the mixture to create your unique flavor profile. Add smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor, or introduce some chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch. Just make sure any additional ingredients complement the BBQ sauce you choose to use so that they don’t compete for attention.

Another easy variation is to transform these sliders into mini quinoa or lentil patties for added protein and nutrition. Simply mix cooked quinoa or mashed lentils into the mushroom mixture before forming the patties. This not only enhances the health benefits but also adds an extra dimension of flavor and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Absolutely! You can use any mushrooms you prefer, like cremini or button mushrooms, for a different flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet before serving.

→ Can I make these sliders gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives and use gluten-free buns.

→ What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to experiment with toppings like avocado, sautéed mushrooms, or a spicy mayo for an added kick.