Turkey Cranberry Sliders
If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fun family meal, look no further than these Turkey Cranberry Sliders. Combining savory ground turkey with the sweet tang of cranberry sauce and the fresh zing of parsley, these sliders are a perfect bite-sized treat that brings together festive flavors all year round. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday party, game day, or a casual weeknight dinner, these sliders promise a burst of flavor with every bite. Plus, they’re simple to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and easily customizable to suit your taste buds.
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This Turkey Cranberry Sliders recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it uses ground turkey, a lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors wonderfully. The addition of cranberry sauce gives a natural sweetness and moisture, ensuring the sliders never feel dry or bland. The blend of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper brings a balanced seasoning profile that complements rather than overwhelms the turkey’s mild flavor. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that keeps the sliders tasting vibrant.
The method is straightforward—mix, form, cook, and assemble—making it accessible even for beginner cooks. The use of slider buns makes portion control easy and perfect for sharing. You can opt to add sliced cheese for an extra layer of creamy goodness, but these sliders also shine on their own. Overall, the recipe has been tested multiple times to guarantee consistent, delicious results, making it a reliable choice for any occasion.
Your Shopping Guide
- Ground Turkey (1 lb): Choose fresh, lean ground turkey from your local grocery store or butcher.
- Cranberry Sauce (1/2 cup): Opt for a quality cranberry sauce—either canned or homemade. Look for one without added preservatives or excessive sugar for a healthier option.
- Fresh Parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): Flat-leaf parsley works best for a bright, herbaceous flavor.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp): A staple spice that adds savory depth.
- Onion Powder (1/2 tsp): Complements the garlic and adds a subtle sweetness.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the flavors in the sliders.
- Black Pepper (1/4 tsp): Adds a gentle kick without overpowering.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp): For cooking the patties to golden perfection.
- Slider Buns: Look for soft, small buns that hold together well but aren’t too dense.
- Sliced Cheese (optional): Choose your favorite type such as cheddar, provolone, or Swiss for added creaminess.
Toolbox for This Recipe
- Mixing Bowl: To combine your turkey and seasonings thoroughly.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurate ingredient portions.
- Nonstick Skillet or Grill Pan: To cook the turkey patties evenly.
- Spatula: For flipping and transferring the sliders.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping parsley and slicing cheese or buns.
- Serving Plate or Tray: Ideal for arranging your sliders beautifully for guests.
Turkey Cranberry Sliders — Do This Next
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add 1 lb of ground turkey. Stir in 1/2 cup of cranberry sauce, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until just combined. Try not to overwork the meat to keep your sliders juicy and tender.
Step 2: Form Slider Patties
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion gently into a small, round patty that matches the size of your slider buns. Make an indent in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent puffing up during cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the meat is no longer pink inside. If using cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking and cover the pan to melt.
Step 4: Prepare the Buns
Slice your slider buns in half horizontally. If you like, lightly toast them in the oven or on the skillet for added texture and warmth.
Step 5: Assemble the Sliders
Place each cooked patty onto the bottom half of a slider bun. Add a small spoonful of cranberry sauce on top if you want an extra burst of flavor. Finish with the top bun.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your sliders on a serving platter and garnish with extra parsley if desired. These turkey cranberry sliders are best enjoyed warm but are just as tasty at room temperature.
Texture-Safe Substitutions
- Ground Chicken: A mild alternative to ground turkey with similar texture.
- Homemade Cranberry Relish: For a fresher, less sweet option than canned cranberry sauce.
- Fresh Basil or Cilantro: Instead of parsley for a different herbal note.
- Gluten-Free Slider Buns: To accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing size or softness.
- Vegan Cheese Slices: For a dairy-free version that still melts nicely.
Troubleshooting Tips
- If your patties fall apart, try chilling them in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before cooking to firm up.
- To avoid dry sliders, do not overcook the turkey; use a meat thermometer for precision.
- If the cranberry sauce is too sweet for your liking, balance it with a small squeeze of lemon juice before mixing.
- Use a nonstick skillet or a well-oiled grill pan to prevent sticking and breaking.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
Store leftover cooked turkey cranberry sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, keep buns separate from patties to avoid sogginess. To reheat, warm patties in a skillet or microwave until heated through, and toast buns slightly before assembling again. If you want to freeze them, wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Troubleshooting Q&A
Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
While ground beef can be substituted, keep in mind it will change the flavor profile and fat content. Ground turkey offers a lighter, leaner option that pairs beautifully with the cranberry sauce.
How do I prevent the sliders from being dry?
Overcooking is the most common cause of dryness. Cook the patties just until they reach 165°F internally, and avoid pressing down on them while cooking.
Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix and form the patties a day ahead and store them covered in the fridge. Cook them fresh when ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
What cheese works best with these sliders?
Cheddar, Swiss, or provolone are excellent choices. If you want a milder flavor, go with mozzarella. Make sure the cheese melts well to complement the moist turkey patties.
Our Most-Loved Recipes
- Turkey Burgers With Tzatziki – A flavorful twist on classic turkey patties with a refreshing yogurt sauce.
- Cheddar Scallion Buttermilk Biscuits – Buttery, flaky biscuits perfect for sandwiching your sliders or serving alongside.
Hungry for More?
If you love the combination of savory turkey and tangy cranberry, try experimenting with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a seasonal twist. You can also add a hint of spice with cayenne or smoked paprika to give your sliders a subtle kick. For a heartier meal, serve these sliders with a side of sweet potato fries or a crisp green salad. The versatility and ease of this recipe make it a staple you’ll return to again and again.
These Turkey Cranberry Sliders are truly a delightful way to enjoy familiar flavors in a fun, easy-to-eat format. Whether for entertaining or a satisfying family dinner, they hit the right balance of sweet, savory, and fresh elements. Give the recipe a try and watch these sliders become an instant favorite!
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Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, add 1 lb of ground turkey. Stir in 1/2 cup of cranberry sauce, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix until just combined without overworking.
- Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each into a small, round patty matching the size of your slider buns. Make an indent in the center of each patty with your thumb.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook patties for 4-5 minutes each side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Add cheese slice during last minute if using and cover to melt.
- Slice slider buns in half horizontally. Toast lightly if desired.
- Assemble sliders by placing each patty on bottom bun half. Add a spoonful of cranberry sauce if desired, then top with bun.
- Arrange sliders on a serving platter and garnish with extra parsley if preferred. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Chill patties for 15-20 minutes before cooking to help them hold together.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and keep sliders juicy.
- Balance sweet cranberry sauce with a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container, keeping buns separate to avoid sogginess.
- Freeze wrapped sliders for up to 1 month; thaw overnight before reheating.
