Easy Slider BBQ Mushroom Smash

Name: Easy Slider BBQ Mushroom Smash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, chopped; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup BBQ sauce; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 slider buns; Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, cheese

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love experimenting with mushrooms in my cooking, and this Easy Slider BBQ Mushroom Smash recipe is a delightful result of those experiments. The combination of smoky BBQ sauce and savory sautéed mushrooms creates an irresistibly delicious flavor profile. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering, these sliders are not only simple to make but also customizable. Join me in creating these mouthwatering sliders that everyone will enjoy, packed with flavor and easy to prepare!

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:19:13.234Z

While perfecting my mushroom slider technique, I discovered that marinating the mushrooms in BBQ sauce not only enhances their flavor but also adds a lovely caramelized texture when grilled or sautéed. This method gives every bite an incredible smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with the slider buns. I often sprinkle a bit of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor, making these sliders utterly irresistible.

To bring additional richness to these sliders, I've learned that a quick sauté with onions and garlic creates a robust base that complements the mushrooms. This combination not only boosts the overall taste but also provides substance, making each slider satisfying and delicious. Don't forget to serve them with your favorite toppings for an extra crunch!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Smoky BBQ flavor perfectly complements earthy mushrooms
Quick to prepare for busy weeknights or casual gatherings
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings

      

Mastering the Sauté

Sautéing the onions and garlic is crucial for building the base flavor in your sliders. Keep the heat at medium to avoid browning them too quickly, which would alter the flavors. They should be softened and translucent, taking about 3-4 minutes. If they begin to brown before they soften, reduce the heat and add a splash of water to deglaze the pan, preventing sticking while enhancing flavor.

The texture of your sautéed aromatics will also influence the final dish. Ideally, you want the onion to have a slight sweetness, which will complement the earthy mushrooms beautifully. If you find your garlic is sticking or burning, it may be a good idea to add your mushrooms a minute or two early to absorb any excess oil and moisture.

Getting the Perfect Mushroom Mix

When cooking the mushrooms, make sure to use a large enough skillet to ensure they are evenly spaced; this allows for proper browning. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as that leads to steaming instead of sautéing. Cook the mushrooms until they release their moisture and begin to brown, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they develop a nice golden edge and have shrunk significantly.

Different mushroom varieties can also impact the flavor. For instance, using a mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms can create a depth of flavor that regular button mushrooms may lack. Feel free to experiment with what’s available; just ensure you chop them to a similar size for consistent cooking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients for Easy Slider BBQ Mushroom Smash

8 oz (225g) mushrooms, chopped
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup BBQ sauce
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slider buns
Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, cheese

Make sure to have your favorite toppings ready!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your sliders:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Cook the Mushrooms

Add the chopped mushrooms to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.

Add BBQ Sauce

Pour in the BBQ sauce and stir well, cooking for another 2 minutes until everything is combined and heated.

Assemble the Sliders

Spoon the mushroom mixture into the slider buns and add any optional toppings you desire.

Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your perfect flavor match. You can also add other veggies or spices for more variety.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These sliders are incredibly versatile and can be paired with various sides like sweet potato fries or a fresh garden salad. To elevate your slider experience, consider adding a tangy coleslaw on the side for some crunch and acidity. A light, creamy aioli drizzled over the sliders can also add a wonderful layer of richness and flavor.

For special gatherings, try setting up a slider bar with assorted toppings like avocado slices, spicy jalapeños, and various cheeses. This way, guests can customize their sliders to their taste. Keeping toppings on ice will ensure freshness, especially for items like lettuce and tomatoes.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to make these sliders ahead of time, prepare the mushroom mixture and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, then assemble into the slider buns with your chosen toppings.

For longer storage, you can freeze the sautéed mushrooms in a tightly sealed freezer bag. They will hold well for about a month. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned. This makes it a great quick meal option for busy weekdays!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of mushroom?

Yes! While I prefer cremini mushrooms for their rich flavor, you can use button mushrooms or shiitake mushrooms as well.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

Simply substitute the slider buns for vegan options and ensure your BBQ sauce is plant-based.

→ Can I prepare the mushroom mix ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can sauté the mushroom mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before assembling the sliders.

→ What side dishes pair well with the sliders?

These sliders go great with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or coleslaw!