Spicy Black Bean and Corn Sliders

Name: Spicy Black Bean and Corn Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup diced red onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for grilling; 1 ripe avocado; 1/4 cup Greek yogurt; Juice of 1 lime; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

I've always loved experimenting with vegetarian dishes, and these Spicy Black Bean and Corn Sliders have quickly become a favorite in my house. The combination of robust spices, black beans, and sweet corn creates a delightful flavor explosion in every bite. They're incredibly easy to prepare and make for a perfect party appetizer or a tasty weeknight meal. Plus, I appreciate how they hold their shape on the grill, making them ideal for outdoor gatherings. Trust me, once you try these sliders, you'll be hooked!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-06T22:42:31.064Z

When I first whipped up these Spicy Black Bean and Corn Sliders, I was on a mission to create a punchy vegetarian option that even my meat-loving friends would enjoy. The secret is in the seasoning; a blend of cumin, paprika, and a hint of cayenne elevates the simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Pairing them with a zesty avocado crema takes it to another level!

One of the best tips I can share is to let the mixture rest for a few minutes after blending the ingredients. This not only helps the flavors meld but also makes shaping the sliders much easier. I always bake a few extra to keep in the fridge for quick lunches throughout the week!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bold and zesty flavors that awaken your taste buds
Nutritious and filling, perfect for a healthy meal
Versatile; easily customize with your favorite toppings

      

Mastering the Texture

Achieving the perfect texture for your sliders is vital for both flavor and structure. When mashing the black beans, aim for a consistency that remains slightly chunky rather than completely smooth. This gives the sliders a heartier bite, which is especially satisfying when paired with the sweet corn. Keep an eye on your mixture as you add the breadcrumbs; they help bind the sliders together without making them dense, so adjust the amount based on how wet your mixture feels after mixing.

For a fun twist, consider adding finely chopped bell peppers or jalapeños to the mixture. Not only do they enhance the flavor profile, but they also contribute to the sliders' moisture while creating varied textures. If using frozen corn, ensure it's thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture, which could lead to sliders that fall apart during cooking.

Cooking Techniques for Perfection

Whether you choose to skillet-cook or grill your sliders, understanding the heat level is essential. Using medium heat is recommended to allow a golden crust to develop without burning. When pan-frying, you should hear a satisfying sizzle as you place the patties into the skillet; this indicates that your oil is hot enough. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until deep golden, as this not only enhances flavor but also creates a pleasant crispy edge.

If you opt for grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high. A grill basket can be helpful for transporting the sliders and preventing them from falling through the grates. Brush the grill with oil just before placing the patties on it to reduce sticking. Grill each side for around 6-7 minutes, until the outsides have those appealing grill marks and a slight char, which adds another layer of smoky goodness.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup diced red onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for grilling

For the Avocado Crema

1 ripe avocado
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Sliders

In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork until mostly smooth. Add the corn, breadcrumbs, red onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes.

Shape and Cook

Shape the mixture into patties, about 3 inches in diameter. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the sliders for about 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

Alternatively, grill them for a smoky flavor.

Make the Avocado Crema

In a small bowl, mash the avocado and stir in the Greek yogurt, lime juice, and salt until smooth.

Assemble and Serve

Serve the sliders on small buns or lettuce wraps, topped with a dollop of avocado crema.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding chopped fresh cilantro to the slider mixture or topping the sliders with sliced jalapeños for a kick.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These sliders can be made in advance, which is a big plus for busy weeknights or entertaining. After shaping the patties, you can freeze them before cooking. Place the uncooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to cook, there's no need to thaw; just extend the cooking time by a few extra minutes on each side.

If you have leftovers, store cooked sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally to warm evenly, or pop them back on the grill for a few minutes to restore their crispy exterior.

Serving Suggestions

While these sliders shine on their own, elevating them with the right accompaniments can turn a simple meal into a feast. For a fresh touch, serve them with a side of tangy coleslaw or a zesty corn salad that complements their flavor profile. You could also offer a variety of toppings, such as sliced jalapeños, pickled onions, or fresh cilantro, allowing guests to customize their sliders based on individual preferences.

To create a complete meal, pair the sliders with roasted vegetables or sweet potato fries. If you're craving a bit of heat, drizzle some hot sauce over the avocado crema before serving. This adds an exhilarating kick that balances the creamy texture perfectly, making each bite an experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the slider mixture and shape the patties a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.

→ Can I freeze the sliders?

Absolutely! Shape the sliders and freeze them in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed tortilla chips, ground oats, or even cooked quinoa.

→ Are these sliders gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free breadcrumbs, these sliders can be made gluten-free.