Paneer Slider Recipe – Spinach & Mozzarella Indian-Style Bites

Last Updated on 1 month by Neha Deshmukh

Paneer Slider Recipe – Spinach & Mozzarella Indian-Style Bites

Hey everyone! I’m so excited to share this recipe with you – Paneer Sliders! They’re a fun twist on a classic, packed with flavour, and seriously addictive. I first made these when I was craving something comforting but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. These sliders hit the spot, and I’ve been making them ever since. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a party snack, or just when you need a little something delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These aren’t your average sliders. We’re taking the familiar comfort of a slider and giving it an Indian-inspired makeover with paneer, spinach, and a touch of marinara. It’s a delightful fusion that’s surprisingly easy to make. Plus, who doesn’t love a good bite-sized treat? They’re incredibly satisfying and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these amazing Paneer Sliders:

• 200g paneer block
• 0.25 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 9 slider buns
• 1.5 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon melted butter

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.

Paneer: Choosing the Right Type & Freshness

Paneer is the star of the show, so choosing a good quality one is important. I prefer using a firm paneer that holds its shape well during baking. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores, or even some larger supermarkets. About 200 grams should be perfect for 9 sliders. If you can, get fresh paneer – it really does taste better!

Marinara Sauce: Exploring Regional Indian Tomato-Based Sauces

Marinara sauce works beautifully here, offering a familiar base. But if you’re feeling adventurous, you could experiment with Indian tomato-based sauces! Think of a simple tomato masala or even a slightly spiced tomato chutney. It adds a lovely depth of flavour.

Slider Buns: Options for Different Textures & Flavors

Slider buns are key! I like using soft, slightly sweet slider buns, but you can use whatever you prefer. Potato rolls or brioche buns would also be delicious. Just make sure they’re oven-safe if you’re baking them directly in the pan.

Mozzarella: Low-Moisture vs. Fresh Mozzarella

For these sliders, I recommend using low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella. It melts beautifully without making the sliders too soggy. Fresh mozzarella is delicious, but it releases more water, which can affect the texture.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, slice the paneer into ¼-inch thick pieces. Not too thin, not too thick – just right!
2. Now, carefully cut the slider buns horizontally as a single block, keeping the tops and bottoms connected. This makes layering so much easier.
3. Place the bottom buns in an oven-safe pan. Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly over them. Don’t be shy with the sauce!
4. Arrange the paneer slices neatly over the sauce, then add a layer of thinly sliced red onion. Top it all off with the remaining marinara sauce.
5. Scatter the fresh baby spinach leaves over the sauce, and then generously sprinkle with grated mozzarella cheese. More cheese is always a good idea, right?
6. Gently place the top half of the buns over the filling. Brush the tops of the buns with melted butter – this will give them a lovely golden colour.
7. Cover the pan tightly with foil and bake for 10 minutes on the middle rack. This helps everything heat through and melt the cheese.
8. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Let the sliders cool slightly before separating them. Serve warm and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the pan. If your pan is too small, bake the sliders in batches.
• For extra flavour, marinate the paneer in a little ginger-garlic paste and turmeric before adding it to the sliders.
• If you want a crispier bun, broil for the last minute or two, but watch carefully to prevent burning!

Variations

These sliders are super versatile! Here are a few ideas to spice things up:

• Vegan Paneer Sliders: My friend, Priya, who’s vegan, swaps the paneer for firm tofu and uses a vegan mozzarella alternative. It’s just as delicious!
• Gluten-Free Paneer Sliders: Simply use gluten-free slider buns. Easy peasy!
• Spice Level Adjustment: Adding a Kick: My family loves a little heat, so I often add a pinch of red chilli flakes to the marinara sauce.
• Festival Adaptations: A Fun Snack for Parties: For parties, I like to make mini sliders using even smaller buns. They’re perfect for snacking!

Serving Suggestions

These Paneer Sliders are fantastic on their own, but they’re even better with a side of raita or a simple green salad. A little mango chutney on the side adds a lovely sweetness.

Storage Instructions

Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. They’re best enjoyed fresh, though!

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

What type of paneer works best for sliders?

A firm paneer is ideal, as it holds its shape well during baking.

Can I assemble the sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the sliders a few hours in advance. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Is it possible to make these sliders in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.

What can I substitute for marinara sauce to make it more authentically Indian?

Try using a simple tomato masala or a spiced tomato chutney.

How can I prevent the buns from getting soggy?

Using low-moisture mozzarella and not over-saucing will help prevent soggy buns. Also, baking uncovered for the last 10 minutes helps crisp them up.

Enjoy making these Paneer Sliders! I hope they become a favourite in your kitchen, just like they are in mine. Let me know what you think in the comments below!