Sweet Potato and Black Bean Sliders

Name: Sweet Potato and Black Bean Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for frying; Mini burger buns (optional)

Highlighted under: International Recipes

I absolutely love creating dishes that are not only delicious but also satisfying and healthy. These Sweet Potato and Black Bean Sliders are a perfect example! They combine the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the hearty texture of black beans, making them a fantastic vegetarian option for lunch or dinner. I enjoy adding a pinch of spices to elevate the flavors, and the result is a delightful bite that satisfies my cravings while keeping things nutritious. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a quick meal, these sliders are sure to impress!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-06T22:17:28.102Z

When I first created these sliders, I was looking for a way to make veggies exciting and accessible for everyone in my family. The combination of mashed sweet potatoes and black beans not only tastes amazing but also packs a nutritional punch! The key is to ensure that the sweet potatoes are well-mashed for the perfect texture in the sliders.

After several tries, I've discovered that adding a touch of cumin and paprika brings out the best flavors in these sliders. Whether served on a fresh bun or without, these satisfying little rounds have become a family favorite. I love serving them with a side of homemade avocado cream for a refreshing twist.

        Why You Will Love These Sliders
        A unique and hearty alternative to traditional burgers
Packed with nutrients and plant-based protein
Versatile and easily customizable with your favorite toppings

      

The Importance of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes play a pivotal role in these sliders, providing not only flavor but also a unique creamy texture that binds the ingredients together. Their natural sweetness balances the earthiness of black beans, creating a harmonious blend that’s both satisfying and nutritious. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for firm ones with smooth skin. You can steam or bake them as alternatives to boiling, which will intensify their natural sweetness and enhance the overall flavor of the sliders.

In addition to their delightful taste, sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. This makes them an excellent ingredient for anyone aiming to incorporate healthier options into their diet. Their vibrant orange color indicates high beta-carotene levels, contributing to the sliders’ eye-catching appeal. When cooked properly, they should be soft enough to mash easily, ensuring a smooth yet chunky mixture that holds together during the cooking process.

Creating the Perfect Patty

When forming your sliders, aim for uniformity in size to ensure even cooking. Using a kitchen scale can help achieve consistent 2 to 3-inch patties, but you can also simply use your hands. If the mixture feels too wet, adding a bit more breadcrumbs can help the patties hold their shape. Conversely, if they seem too dry, a splash of water or an extra spoonful of mashed sweet potato can help balance the texture.

A light hand during mixing is key; over-mixing can yield tough patties. Aim for a cohesive mixture while maintaining some chunkiness from the black beans to ensure the patties are hearty. Don’t stress if they crumble a bit during cooking; just make sure your skillet is well-oiled, which will help form a crispy crust. If you find they’re falling apart frequently, consider chilling the formed patties in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes prior to cooking to help them firm up.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before getting started:

For the Sliders

1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying
Mini burger buns (optional)

Make sure you have everything ready and prepped for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your sliders:

Cook the Sweet Potato

In a pot of boiling water, cook the sweet potato cubes until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly.

Mash the Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sweet potato, black beans, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, cumin, and paprika. Mash until well mixed but still chunky.

Form the Sliders

Shape the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches wide. You should yield around 8 sliders.

Cook the Sliders

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the sliders for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

Assemble and Serve

Serve the sliders on buns or as is, topped with your favorite condiments and enjoy!

These sliders are best served fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for leftovers.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize these sliders with additional spices or toppings like avocado, salsa, or cheese to make them your own!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Sweet Potato and Black Bean Sliders are perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the patties ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can freeze them for longer storage. Layer parchment paper between the sliders in a freezer-safe container to prevent sticking, and they’ll last for 2 to 3 months. Just remember to defrost them in the fridge overnight before cooking.

When reheating, a skillet works best to maintain that delightful crispy exterior. Cook them over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until heated through and golden. For a quicker option, using an air fryer can also yield crispy results without excess oil. Set it to 350°F and cook for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway for an even crunch.

Versatile Serving Suggestions

Feel free to experiment with different toppings to suit your taste. Fresh avocado slices or guacamole can complement the sweetness of the sliders beautifully, while a zesty salsa brings a nice tang. For a creamy touch, try adding a dollop of yogurt or a spread of hummus. If you’re looking for added crunch, shredded cabbage or sliced pickles make excellent fresh toppings.

If you’re serving these sliders at a gathering, consider offering a variety of mini buns and condiments on the side. This allows guests to customize their sliders and makes for a fun, interactive meal. Adding a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh salad can round out the meal beautifully, creating a well-balanced plate that’s as delicious as it is healthy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before cooking.

→ Can I freeze the sliders?

Absolutely! After forming the patties, you can freeze them. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

These sliders pair wonderfully with a side salad, sweet potato fries, or a refreshing coleslaw.

→ Are these sliders gluten-free?

You can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or flour as a binder.