Sliders with Grilled Zucchini

Name: Sliders with Grilled Zucchini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 slider buns; Cheese slices (optional); 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Ideas

I absolutely love making sliders, and these Sliders with Grilled Zucchini are a standout in my kitchen! The combination of juicy sliders and smoky, tender zucchini creates a delicious bite that everyone enjoys. I found that grilling the zucchini brings out its natural sweetness, which perfectly complements the savory beef. Whether for a casual lunch or a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your guests. The best part? These sliders are quick to prepare, making them a fantastic option for weeknight dinners as well.

Created by

Una Merrick

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:46:34.879Z

When I first came across the idea of adding grilled zucchini to sliders, I was a bit skeptical. But after trying this combination, I was completely hooked! The grilled zucchini not only adds a lovely texture but also a burst of flavor that elevates the whole dish. I like to pair my sliders with a creamy sauce or tangy mustard, enhancing the flavor even more.

One tip I've learned is to use a hot grill when cooking the zucchini. This ensures that you get those beautiful grill marks and that unique smoky flavor without overcooking the vegetable. Trust me, this small detail can make all the difference!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        The perfect blend of savory beef and sweet grilled zucchini
Great for gatherings with family and friends
Versatile recipe that can be easily customized
Quick and easy to prepare, yet impressively delicious

      

Understanding Zucchini's Role

Grilled zucchini adds an essential layer of flavor and texture to these sliders. Its natural sweetness becomes pronounced when grilled, creating a delightful contrast with the savory beef. The grilling process also transforms zucchini into a tender ingredient that melds beautifully with the slider's juiciness. When selecting zucchinis, look for firm ones; avoid those with soft spots or blemishes, as they may compromise the overall quality of the dish.

To ensure your zucchini grills perfectly, keep its slices uniform in thickness—about 1/4 inch works well. This uniformity means they'll cook evenly, achieving that desired char while remaining tender inside. If you prefer a more pronounced smoky flavor, try sprinkling a bit of smoked paprika on the zucchini just before grilling, enhancing the dish's depth.

Perfecting the Slider Patties

When forming your slider patties, make sure not to overwork the ground beef; doing so can result in dense and tough sliders. Gently handle the meat and shape it into about 2 to 3-ounce portions, making a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing during grilling. This technique helps maintain the slider's flat shape and allows for consistent cooking.

Grilling at medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F) is crucial for achieving that perfect sear. When the patties hit the grill, you'll hear an inviting sizzle that signifies the Maillard reaction—this browning is essential for depth and flavor. I recommend using an instant-read thermometer to check doneness; aim for 160°F for a well-cooked slider while adjusting timing based on your preference.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Sliders with Grilled Zucchini

For the Sliders

1 pound ground beef
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slider buns
Cheese slices (optional)

For the Grilled Zucchini

2 medium zucchinis, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Seasoning Options

You can customize the sliders with your favorite herbs and spices for an extra kick!

Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. In a bowl, toss the sliced zucchinis with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side until tender and slightly charred.

Form and Cook the Sliders

While the zucchini is grilling, shape the ground beef into slider patties. Season with salt and pepper. Grill the patties for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until desired doneness. If using cheese, add a slice on top during the last minute of grilling to melt.

Assemble the Sliders

Toast the slider buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes. Place the cooked sliders on the bottom halves of the buns, top with grilled zucchini, and any other desired toppings. Place the top bun on and serve immediately.

Enjoy Your Meal!

These sliders can be served with fries or a simple salad.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the zucchini in balsamic vinegar before grilling. Also, try different types of cheese to find your favorite pairing!

Customizing Your Sliders

While these sliders are delicious as is, one of the joys of cooking is personalization. Feel free to experiment with toppings! Slices of avocado, caramelized onions, or even a dollop of tzatziki can elevate the flavor profile beyond traditional condiments. If you’re looking for a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to the assembly process.

For a vegetarian version, swap the beef with black bean patties or quinoa-based sliders. Just be sure to adjust cooking times, as these alternatives might cook faster. The grilled zucchini will still complement these options beautifully, maintaining the balance of flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the sliders and zucchini separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The sliders can typically last for up to 3 days. To reheat, a quick bounce back on the grill can help restore some of that initial texture. Alternatively, you can use an oven set to 350°F, baking for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, maintaining moisture without overcooking.

Grilled zucchini does tend to lose its texture over time, but it can still be used in other dishes. Consider incorporating leftovers into pasta, salads, or grain bowls. If you're inclined, you can also freeze the zucchini slices—just ensure they are cooled and stored flat in a single layer before stacking to prevent them from sticking together.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter option!

→ What other vegetables could I add?

You can try adding grilled peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor!

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

You can cook the patties and zucchini in advance, then assemble them right before serving.

→ What can I serve with the sliders?

These sliders pair well with a variety of sides like coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh garden salad.