Sliders with Halloumi

Name: Sliders with Halloumi
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 slices of halloumi cheese; 4 small brioche buns; 1 cup of mixed greens; 1 ripe avocado, sliced; 1 tomato, sliced; Olive oil, for frying; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making sliders with halloumi for a quick yet satisfying meal. The crispy texture of the pan-seared halloumi paired with fresh toppings creates a delightful bite. It’s perfect for casual gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Everything comes together in just a few minutes, and I enjoy experimenting with various sauces and sides to enhance the flavors. Plus, they're a fantastic vegetarian option that even meat lovers will enjoy!

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:19:08.877Z

When I first made sliders with halloumi, I was amazed by how simple they were to prepare yet how impressive they turned out. The halloumi is just so versatile! Grilling or pan-frying it yields that lovely crispy exterior while keeping it soft and chewy inside. I usually serve these sliders with a zesty yogurt sauce and fresh veggies, but don't shy away from adding your own twist!

One of my favorite parts of this recipe is that you can include any toppings you like. I often experiment with pickled onions or a spicy aioli to give the sliders an extra kick. Halloumi's unique flavor pairs perfectly with bold tastes, allowing for endless combinations. Trust me; these sliders will become a new favorite in your household!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crispy and savory halloumi with every bite
Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
Versatile toppings for endless flavor combinations

      

Choosing the Right Halloumi

When making sliders with halloumi, the choice of cheese is crucial. Opt for a good-quality halloumi that is firm and salty, which will yield a satisfying texture when pan-seared. If you find your halloumi is too soft or has a rubbery texture, it may not hold up well during cooking. Try brands that are labeled as ‘grilling halloumi’ as they are specifically made to withstand higher cooking temperatures without melting.

For the best results, slice the halloumi to about a half-inch thickness. This thickness allows the slices to develop a crispy exterior while keeping the inside warm and creamy. If you prefer a milder flavor, try soaking the halloumi in water for a few minutes prior to cooking to help reduce its saltiness.

Perfecting the Sauce

The sauce for the sliders is incredibly versatile, and you can easily customize it to suit your taste. If you're looking for a spicier kick, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the yogurt mixture. Additionally, herbed yogurt can be achieved by incorporating fresh or dried herbs, such as dill or cilantro, boosting not only flavor but also aroma.

To achieve the perfect consistency for your sauce, mix it until smooth and glossy. If you find it too thick, thin it out with a splash of water or a touch of extra lemon juice. This helps the sauce cling perfectly to the other ingredients, providing a delightful burst of flavor with every bite.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These sliders can be served on their own as a light meal or alongside a variety of side dishes. A simple side of sweet potato fries or a refreshing cucumber and lemon salad complements the richness of the halloumi perfectly. If you're entertaining, consider serving them on a platter arranged with different sauces, including tzatziki or hummus, to allow guests to snack and customize their sliders.

For those wishing to expand their palette, try adding caramelized onions or roasted red peppers as toppings. Both options add sweetness that beautifully balances the saltiness of the halloumi. You can also switch out the brioche buns for pita bread or lettuce wraps to create a low-carb version of these delightful sliders.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

4 slices of halloumi cheese
4 small brioche buns
1 cup of mixed greens
1 ripe avocado, sliced
1 tomato, sliced
Olive oil, for frying

For the Sauce

1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Make sure to have all ingredients prepared before you start cooking!

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

Cook the Halloumi

Heat a bit of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the halloumi slices and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Assemble the Sliders

Slice the brioche buns in half and toast lightly if desired. Spread a generous amount of the sauce on the bottom half, then layer some mixed greens, avocado, and sliced tomato. Place the cooked halloumi on top and cover with the other half of the bun.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the sliders immediately while the halloumi is still warm, and enjoy!

Be creative with your toppings to suit your taste!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes or herbs on your halloumi while cooking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're preparing these sliders in advance, consider cooking the halloumi and preparing the sauce separately. Store the halloumi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the cheese in a skillet with a splash of olive oil over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again—this should take about 1-2 minutes per side.

The sauce can also be made up to two days ahead of time. Just store it in a sealed container in the fridge. Stir well before serving, adding a little water or extra lemon juice if needed to restore its texture. This way, you can whip up the sliders in no time for a quick meal.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When cooking halloumi, be careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Too many slices at once can lead to steaming rather than searing, preventing that beautiful browning. If you're making a larger batch, cook the cheese in batches and keep the finished slices warm in a low-heat oven until ready to assemble your sliders.

If you notice the halloumi begins to melt instead of sear, your pan may be too hot or not non-stick enough. Ensure you use a non-stick skillet or carefully monitor the heat. Adjusting the heat to medium-low can help achieve that perfect golden-brown crust without losing the structure of the cheese.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this slider recipe is straightforward and great for larger gatherings. Simply multiply the ingredients accordingly, ensuring that you have enough buns and halloumi for everyone. As you increase the quantities, also be mindful of adjusting cooking times, especially for the halloumi, since larger batches may require more time to sear evenly.

When serving larger groups, consider setting up a slider bar with a variety of toppings and sauces for guests to choose from. This not only makes a fun presentation but also allows everyone to customize their sliders to their liking, making it an interactive dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I grill the halloumi instead of frying?

Absolutely! Halloumi grills beautifully and adds a smoky flavor.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the yogurt sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days.

→ What other toppings do you recommend?

Consider adding roasted red peppers, cucumber slices, or even a jalapeño for a spicy kick!

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Just keep the cooked halloumi and sauce separate from the buns and veggies until serving.