How much protein do sliders have? A complete nutritional guide

December 14, 2025 •

3 min read

While a single White Castle Original Slider contains about 6-7 grams of protein, the total amount can vary significantly based on ingredients and portion size. Understanding how much protein do sliders have requires a detailed look at the different types and preparations, from fast-food versions to homemade creations.

Quick Summary

The protein in sliders varies significantly by type, with beef, chicken, and vegan versions offering different amounts. Factors like patty size, ingredients, and toppings all affect the final protein count.

Key Points

Variable Content: The amount of protein in a slider varies greatly, from as little as 6g to over 20g, depending on the ingredients and preparation.
Beef is Highest: Classic homemade beef sliders generally offer the most protein per serving, particularly when using leaner beef.
Grilled is Leaner: Grilled chicken sliders provide a healthier, leaner protein option compared to crispy, fried chicken sliders.
Vegan Options Depend on Recipe: Protein in vegan sliders is determined by the specific ingredients used, such as lentils, black beans, or nuts.
Easy Protein Boosts: Adding cheese, using Greek yogurt-based sauces, or choosing leaner meat are simple ways to increase a slider's protein.

The Protein in Beef Sliders

Classic beef sliders are often the highest in protein, but the specific amount is influenced by the beef's lean-to-fat ratio and the patty's size. For example, a single, standard beef slider from Nutritionix lists 19 grams of protein, while a much smaller patty like White Castle's Original Slider offers just 6-7 grams. The addition of cheese or sauces also impacts the total protein. Homemade versions allow for the greatest control over protein and fat content. Using a leaner ground beef, such as 90/10 or 93/7, can significantly increase the protein percentage per patty. Some homemade recipes can yield very high protein counts, but these figures often apply to larger servings or multiple sliders.

Homemade vs. Store-bought: A homemade beef slider might use a larger patty, resulting in a higher protein count. A store-bought or fast-food option will typically be smaller and have a lower protein content per unit.
Wagyu Beef Sliders: Specific premium options like Rastelli's Wagyu sliders can offer 20g of protein per serving.

How Chicken Sliders Compare

Chicken sliders can be an excellent source of lean protein, but preparation is key. Crispy, fried chicken sliders often have a different nutritional profile than their grilled counterparts. For instance, a White Castle Crispy Chicken Slider contains about 11 grams of protein, while a grilled chicken slider can provide a more substantial 17-26 grams, depending on the recipe. Using a skinless chicken breast for a homemade grilled chicken slider is a surefire way to maximize protein while keeping fat low. The total protein count also depends on whether cheese is added and the type of bun and condiments used.

Vegan and Veggie Slider Protein

Plant-based sliders offer a great alternative for those avoiding meat. The protein content varies significantly based on the main ingredient of the patty. Lentil and black bean sliders are popular choices and can pack a decent protein punch. For instance, recipes using lentils, oats, and chia seeds can create satisfying, protein-rich patties. A black bean slider recipe also provides a solid plant-based protein foundation. The amount of protein in these options is highly dependent on the recipe and the quantity of high-protein ingredients like nuts, seeds, and beans. A good plant-based slider can be part of a balanced, high-protein meal, especially when paired with other protein-rich foods.

Factors Influencing Protein Content

Patty Size and Density: The larger and denser the patty, the more protein it contains. Small, steamed patties, like those from White Castle, will naturally have less protein than a larger, grilled patty.
Cheese and Toppings: Adding a slice of cheese significantly boosts protein. Toppings like bacon or a sauce made with Greek yogurt can also increase the protein total.
Bun Type: While the bun typically contributes carbohydrates, some protein-fortified buns can add to the total. Alternatively, swapping a bun for a lettuce wrap or portobello mushroom can adjust the overall macronutrient profile.

Comparison Table: Protein in Different Sliders


Slider Type	Typical Protein (per single slider)	Key Factors
Classic Beef (Homemade)	15-20g	Patty size, fat content, added cheese
Beef (White Castle)	6-7g	Small patty size, steamed preparation
Crispy Chicken (Fast Food)	~11g	Breading, oil used for frying, cheese
Grilled Chicken (Homemade)	17-26g	Size of chicken breast, marinade, added cheese
Lentil/Black Bean (Homemade)	Varies widely	Recipe ingredients (beans, oats, seeds)

Tips for Boosting Slider Protein

Use a leaner ground meat or skinless chicken breast.
Add a slice of low-fat cheese to each slider.
Mix high-protein ingredients like crumbled bacon, seeds, or nutritional yeast into your patties.
Swap the bun for a portobello mushroom cap or lettuce wrap to focus on the protein from the patty.
Use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese in your sauces and spreads instead of mayonnaise.

Conclusion

So, how much protein do sliders have? The answer is nuanced, depending entirely on the ingredients and method of preparation. While a standard fast-food slider may be relatively low in protein, homemade and restaurant versions can offer a substantial amount, especially with choices like lean beef or grilled chicken. By understanding the factors that influence protein content, you can tailor your slider recipes to fit your nutritional goals, whether you're building muscle, managing weight, or just enjoying a tasty, protein-packed meal. For a healthy and high-protein chicken slider, you can find great recipe ideas from reliable health sources like the Mayo Clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions

A single White Castle Original Slider contains approximately 6-7 grams of protein due to its small, thin patty.

A homemade beef slider can have a much higher protein content, typically between 15 and 20 grams, because it uses a larger, more substantial patty.

Yes, especially grilled chicken sliders. A grilled chicken breast can provide 17-26 grams of lean protein, making it a healthy choice.

The protein content in a vegan slider varies. Recipes using lentils, black beans, and other high-protein plant-based ingredients can offer a good amount of protein, depending on the specific recipe.

Yes, adding cheese adds a few extra grams of protein per slider. For instance, a mini cheeseburger lists approximately 9 grams of protein compared to a plain hamburger slider.

To increase protein, use leaner ground meat, add a slice of cheese, mix in high-protein ingredients like seeds, or use a Greek yogurt-based sauce instead of traditional condiments.

Yes. By focusing on lean protein sources like beef or chicken, adding cheese, and using healthy, protein-rich toppings, you can easily create a high-protein slider.