Easy Slider Crispy Mushroom Smash

Name: Easy Slider Crispy Mushroom Smash
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups chopped portobello mushrooms; 1 cup chopped cremini mushrooms; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 slider buns; Lettuce and tomato, for serving

Highlighted under: Fast Quick Meals Inspiration

I love creating mouthwatering sliders that are not only delicious but also easy to whip up. This Easy Slider Crispy Mushroom Smash recipe has quickly become one of my go-to favorites for gatherings and weeknight dinners alike. With meaty mushrooms as the star ingredient, these sliders are bursting with flavor. The combination of crispy edges and a soft interior makes each bite truly satisfying. I can’t wait for you to try them out, as they are sure to impress anyone you serve!

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:57:34.821Z

When I first experimented with a mushroom-based slider, I had no idea how well the flavors would meld together. I used a combination of portobello and cremini mushrooms, adding garlic and herbs for depth. By smashing the patties down while they cook, I ensure that they develop a delightful crispy crust that contrasts perfectly with the juicy interior.

One tip that I find makes a significant difference is to let the patties rest for a couple of minutes before assembling the sliders. This allows the flavors to settle and the texture to firm up a bit, making for easier handling. Trust me; you won’t want to skip this step!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Savory mushroom flavor paired with fresh herbs
Crispy texture on the outside with a soft interior
Versatile sliders perfect for any occasion

      

Mastering the Mushroom Blend

The key to achieving a standout flavor profile in your sliders lies in the mushroom blend. Portobello and cremini mushrooms bring different tastes and textures to the table. Portobello adds a meaty robustness, while cremini brings a delicate earthiness. When processing the mushrooms, avoid over-pulsing; aim for a mixture that is well-combined yet retains some texture. This will give your patties a satisfying bite and prevent them from turning into a mushy blend.

Seasoning is crucial when creating the mushroom mix. The soy sauce not only adds saltiness but also enhances the umami flavor of the mushrooms, making each bite richer. Freshly minced garlic infuses the patties with aromatic goodness, so don’t substitute with garlic powder if possible. Finally, don’t skimp on the thyme—its herbal notes brighten up the rich flavors and keep the taste balanced.

Perfecting the Cooking Method

Cooking the patties to achieve that perfect golden brown crust is a delightful part of this recipe. When you heat the olive oil, aim for a temperature that’s hot enough to create a sizzle when the patties hit the pan, but not so hot that they burn. A medium heat is ideal, allowing the outside to crisp while the inside stays moist. Flip the patties gently with a spatula for a nice, even cook, ensuring both sides are pressed down slightly for that crispy finish.

If you notice that the patties are falling apart during cooking, this might be due to not compacting the mixture enough when forming them. Try pressing the mixture together more firmly before cooking, or consider adding a little more breadcrumbs to help bind it. Monitor the cooking time closely; a good indicator is when the edges turn a rich, golden brown color, signaling a crispy crust has formed.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These sliders shine when served fresh, but they can also be prepped ahead of time. If you’re making them for a gathering, consider grilling the patties on a barbecue for a smoky flavor or opting for an air fryer for a healthier take. Leftover patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 4-5 minutes per side, restoring their crispy texture.

For serving, feel free to get creative with your condiment choices. A tangy garlic aioli or even a fresh pesto can elevate the flavor profile further. For a vegan option, simply substitute the slider buns with lettuce wraps or whole grain bread for a healthier option. You can also try different toppings like avocados or spicy jalapeños to kick things up a notch!

Ingredients

For the Sliders

2 cups chopped portobello mushrooms
1 cup chopped cremini mushrooms
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 slider buns
Lettuce and tomato, for serving

Enjoy the sliders hot with your favorite toppings!

Instructions

Prepare the Mushroom Mixture

In a food processor, combine the portobello and cremini mushrooms, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.

Form the Patties

Shape the mushroom mixture into four equal-sized patties. Make sure they are compact to hold together while cooking.

Cook the Patties

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for about 5-7 minutes on each side, pressing down slightly with a spatula to create a crispy exterior.

Assemble the Sliders

Once cooked, place the patties on slider buns, top with lettuce and tomato, and serve immediately.

Your sliders are ready to be enjoyed! Serve with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips

For a spicy kick, consider adding some sriracha to your slider or topping with jalapeños. You can also swap out the topping ingredients for variations like avocado or pickles to mix things up.

Ingredient Substitutions

If portobello and cremini mushrooms aren’t available, you can experiment with other mushroom varieties like shiitake or button mushrooms. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as some mushrooms, like button, are juicier and may require more breadcrumbs to maintain the patty's structure. As a rule of thumb, aim for an equal volume of any other mushroom combined with the breadcrumbs to keep the ratios intact.

For a gluten-free alternative, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats in place of traditional breadcrumbs. This will not only help in binding the patties but will also bring a unique texture not often found in gluten-free options. Adjust the amount of liquid ingredients slightly if using ground oats, as they may absorb moisture differently than breadcrumbs.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for both small family dinners and large gatherings. If you need to make more sliders, simply double or triple the ingredients proportionally. The same cooking method applies; just make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. If working in batches, keep the cooked patties warm in a low-temperature oven (about 200°F or 93°C) while the remaining patties finish cooking.

You can also prepare the mushroom mixture ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before shaping and cooking the patties. Just be sure to bring the mixture to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mushroom mixture and form the patties a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you're ready to cook them.

→ What other toppings work well with these sliders?

You can try adding cheese, sautéed onions, or even a special sauce like aioli to take the flavor to another level!

→ Are there any vegan alternatives to the breadcrumbs?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed nuts as a substitute.

→ How can I make these sliders spicier?

You can mix in some red pepper flakes or serve them with a spicy sauce on the side to elevate the heat.