Sliders with Grilled Zucchini

Name: Sliders with Grilled Zucchini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 slider buns; Fresh lettuce leaves; Sliced tomatoes; Condiments of your choice; 2 medium zucchini, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely love making sliders, and adding grilled zucchini to the mix takes them to another level! The combination of flavors and textures in these burgers is simply irresistible. When I grill the zucchini, it becomes tender and slightly smoky, which pairs beautifully with the juicy slider meat. It’s a quick recipe that’s perfect for summer gatherings, and I enjoy serving it with fresh toppings and sauces for everyone to customize their own sliders. Trust me, you’ll want to add this to your barbecue repertoire!

Created by

Elspeth Murray

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:29:34.731Z

When I first tried adding grilled zucchini to my sliders, the burst of flavor was a revelation! The zucchini not only adds moisture, but it also brings in a unique dimension that complements the beef wonderfully. Grilling the zucchini until it's lightly charred enhances its natural sweetness, making each bite a delightful experience.

I discovered that marinating the zucchini in a bit of olive oil and garlic beforehand really intensifies the flavors. It’s a technique I recommend trying with various vegetables, as it elevates any grilled dish. The result is a vibrant, delicious slider that everyone loves!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Grilled zucchini adds a smoky flavor that enhances the burgers
Classic slider recipe that's easy to scale for gatherings
Fresh toppings allow everyone to customize their burgers

Perfecting Grilled Zucchini

When grilling zucchini, it's crucial to slice them uniformly, about 1/4 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and prevents some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain undercooked. I recommend using a grill basket to hold the zucchini slices securely, minimizing the chances of dropping them through the grate. If you find that the zucchini isn't getting as much color as you'd like, a higher heat during the last minute of grilling can help achieve those beautiful char marks.

Adding a marinade can enhance the zucchini's flavor even further. A simple blend of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice with olive oil can provide an extra layer of acidity and brightness. Just be cautious about marinating for too long, as it might make the zucchini too soft. Aim for about 30 minutes of marinating time for the best results.

Crafting the Perfect Slider Patty

For slider patties, the meat's fat content is key to achieving juicy results. I recommend using ground beef with at least 20% fat for rich flavor and moisture. Mixing the seasoning directly into the meat helps ensure that every bite is packed with flavor. When forming the patties, make a slight indentation in the center; this helps the sliders cook evenly and reduces puffing during grilling.

While grilling, resist the urge to press down on the patties with a spatula—a common mistake that releases juices. Instead, allow them to sear undisturbed until they're ready to flip, typically around 3-4 minutes for a medium doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—160°F is ideal for ground beef sliders.

Customizing Your Sliders

One of the best aspects of sliders is their versatility. Consider offering a variety of toppings beyond the classic lettuce and tomato. Pickled red onions, avocado slices, or even sautéed mushrooms can elevate the flavor profile. If you're catering to dietary preferences, try using turkey or plant-based patties as alternatives, ensuring a variety of options for your guests.

For a fun twist, consider adding unique sauces like a spicy aioli or a creamy avocado dressing. These add not just flavor but can also enhance the mouthfeel of the sliders. If you're preparing sliders ahead of time, you can grill the patties and zucchini, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the grill for about 2 minutes on each side before assembling.

Ingredients

Prepare the following ingredients before you start cooking:

For the Sliders

1 lb ground beef
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 slider buns
Fresh lettuce leaves
Sliced tomatoes
Condiments of your choice

For the Grilled Zucchini

2 medium zucchini, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to make some delicious sliders!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your sliders:

Prepare the Zucchini

In a bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Preheat your grill over medium heat, and then grill the zucchini for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they're tender and have grill marks.

Make the Slider Patties

In another bowl, mix the ground beef with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into small patties.

Cook the Sliders

Grill the slider patties on the same grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they reach your desired doneness.

Assemble the Sliders

Place each grilled patty on a slider bun, top with grilled zucchini, fresh lettuce, and sliced tomatoes. Add your favorite condiments and cover with the top bun.

Enjoy your sliders with an extra side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad!

Pro Tips

Try adding different cheeses or toppings such as avocado or spicy mayo to elevate your sliders even further.

Serving Suggestions

When serving sliders, presentation matters! Arrange the patties and toppings in bowls and allow guests to create their own combinations. Not only does this add a fun interactive element, but it also ensures everyone can tailor their sliders to their taste preferences. For a complete meal, consider pairing the sliders with a simple side salad or some homemade potato chips.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also serve these sliders with a side of grilled corn on the cob, brushed with butter and sprinkled with chili powder for added kick. This combination is perfect for summer barbecues and makes for a beautiful serving platter that entices guests.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

For busy cooks, preparing sliders in advance can save time on the day of your gathering. You can make the slider patties a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Layer parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking. The grilled zucchini can also be prepared ahead; just reheat it on the grill or in a skillet before serving to bring back its warm, smoky flavor.

If you're planning leftovers, be sure to store the components separately. Place the patties and zucchini in airtight containers in the refrigerator, while buns and fresh toppings should be kept in their original packaging to maintain freshness. Reheat the patties in a pan to crisp them up, and you'll have delicious sliders ready to go for lunch or dinner the next day!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work perfectly for sliders; just adjust the cooking time as they may cook quicker.

→ Is it necessary to grill the zucchini?

While grilling enhances the flavor, you can also sauté or roast the zucchini if grilling isn't an option.

→ How can I make the sliders vegetarian?

You can substitute the beef with a plant-based burger patty, and the grilled zucchini will still add delicious flavor!

→ What kind of buns should I use?

Slider buns are best, but you can use any small roll or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.