Sliders with Halloumi

Name: Sliders with Halloumi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 4 slices of halloumi cheese; 4 small brioche buns; 1 cup arugula; 1 ripe tomato, sliced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; Olive oil for grilling; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making sliders with halloumi; they offer a delicious twist on traditional sliders that elevates any gathering. The salty richness of the halloumi pairs beautifully with fresh toppings and a brioche bun, ensuring every bite is a taste sensation. I also appreciate how quick they are to prepare, making them perfect for spontaneous get-togethers or a laid-back weekend treat. Let me guide you through this simple and satisfying dish that will impress your friends and family!

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:19:09.404Z

When I first tried halloumi sliders at a food festival, I was blown away by the unique texture and flavor. The squeaky cheese, grilled to perfection, adds a delightful contrast to the soft bun. Since then, I've experimented with different toppings and sauces, discovering the magic of spicy aioli and arugula. This combination is where the magic happens!

One of my favorite tips is to give the halloumi a quick marinate in olive oil and lemon juice beforehand. It really amps up the flavor and helps achieve those lovely grill marks. Trust me, your sliders will be a hit!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and savory halloumi flavor
Easy to prepare and customize
Perfect for parties or a casual meal

      

Choosing the Right Halloumi

When it comes to sliders, the quality of halloumi is paramount. Look for firm slices, ideally sourced from Cyprus or Greece, where traditional halloumi is made. Fresh halloumi should have a slightly squeaky texture and be free from excessive moisture. If you find your halloumi too watery, pat it dry with a paper towel before grilling to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Another tip is to slice your halloumi about ¾ inch thick; this ensures a nice golden crust while maintaining a soft, gooey interior. Don't be afraid to experiment with flavored halloumi varieties—smoked or herb-infused options can add a delightful depth to your sliders.

Mastering the Grill Technique

Grilling halloumi effectively requires a careful approach to heat. Preheat your non-stick grill pan over medium heat; you should hear a gentle sizzle when the cheese hits the pan. If the heat is too low, the halloumi will become rubbery instead of crisp. Aim for a grilling time of about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until you see deep golden brown color and slight char marks.

Additionally, avoid flipping the halloumi too soon. If it sticks to the pan, it isn't ready! Using a spatula, gently lift one edge to check for a golden crust before flipping. A properly grilled slice will have a slightly caramelized exterior with a soft, warm center—making each slider a delightful contrast in texture.

Serving and Storage Tips

These halloumi sliders are best served immediately to experience their warm, melty goodness, but there's also room for creativity in serving! Try setting up a slider bar with additional toppings such as avocado, pickles, or even a zesty mango salsa to let guests customize their own. You'll have a fun interactive element to your gathering.

If you have leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers. Halloumi can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, but for best quality, consume within the first day. When reheating, grill for just one minute on each side to restore that crispy exterior. Prepare the spicy aioli ahead of time—it's delicious cold and can last up to a week in the fridge!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious sliders:

For the Sliders

4 slices of halloumi cheese
4 small brioche buns
1 cup arugula
1 ripe tomato, sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
Olive oil for grilling
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Spicy Aioli

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt to taste

Make sure you have everything ready before you begin cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your sliders:

Prepare the Spicy Aioli

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sriracha, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt. Adjust the spiciness to your liking and set aside.

Grill the Halloumi

Heat a non-stick grill pan over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil. Once hot, add the halloumi slices. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly charred.

Assemble the Sliders

Slice the brioche buns in half and spread a generous amount of spicy aioli on each side. Layer with arugula, the grilled halloumi slices, tomato, and red onion. Top with the other half of the bun.

Serve

Serve your sliders immediately and enjoy while hot! They pair wonderfully with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh salad.

Enjoy the process and savor every delicious bite!

Pro Tips

Try adding roasted peppers or avocado for an extra layer of flavor and richness. Feel free to swap the toppings based on what's in season or what you have on hand.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to switch up the greens! If you're not a fan of arugula, baby spinach or mixed greens work just as well for their fresh flavor. You could also consider adding roasted red peppers or grilled zucchini for an extra veggie boost, which would complement the savory halloumi beautifully.

For those looking for a bit of sweetness alongside the salty, try adding a slice of grilled pineapple or a smear of fig jam inside the slider. The contrast of flavors will surprise your guests and add a unique twist to this classic dish!

Dietary Substitutions

If you're looking for a vegan alternative, consider using tofu instead of halloumi. Marinade firm tofu slices in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and spices before grilling, resembling the flavor profile of halloumi. Just remember that tofu will not have the same texture, but it can still create a delightful slider experience.

For gluten-free diets, opt for gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps as a substitute, which also lighten the dish while keeping it fresh. Just be cautious with how you grill the cheese or tofu, ensuring it's cooked thoroughly without falling apart.

Meal Prep Ideas

If you’re short on time, consider preparing the spicy aioli and slicing the toppings a day in advance. Store the aioli in an airtight container, which will enhance its flavors overnight. Also, pre-slice the vegetables and keep them in the fridge to make assembling the sliders a quick task.

Grilling the halloumi can be done ahead too; simply reheat gently on the grill or in a skillet when you’re ready to serve. This way, you can host more easily and focus on mingling with your guests, knowing you've prepared an amazing dish they will love!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese instead of halloumi?

Yes, you can use grilled feta or breaded mozzarella, but they will offer a different texture and flavor.

→ Can I make the aioli ahead of time?

Absolutely! The aioli can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Are these sliders suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes, halloumi is a vegetarian cheese, making these sliders a great option for vegetarians.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge. It's best to keep the toppings separate to avoid sogginess.