Cranberry turkey sliders are a yummy little snack that kinda taste like the holidays all in one bite. You get the savory turkey mixed with sweet and tart cranberry sauce, and it just works even if you think it wont. They’re great when you want something fast or if you’ve got extra turkey after a big meal.
They’re also super easy to change up for meal prep or to use leftover turkey so nothing goes to waste. You can bring them to a party or make them for dinner on a weeknight. Kids and adults both love these sliders cause they’re small, fun to eat, and full of flavor.
The Appeal of Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Cranberry turkey sliders mix sweet and savory in a way that’s hard to beat. The cranberry sauce gives a tangy sweetness that balances out the mild ground turkey. It’s simple but it tastes special, so people remember it.
These sliders are super versatile too. You can serve them at Thanksgiving, as a quick app at game day, or just for a casual get-together. They’re easy to make ahead, and you can even change up the toppings or sauce to keep things interesting.
Plus, they’re not just tasty—they’re pretty good for you. Ground turkey gives you lean protein and cranberries add antioxidants that help your body. So you’re getting a snack that’s both fun and kinda healthy.
Ingredients for Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Here’s what you’ll need to make these sliders:
Key Ingredients
- Ground turkey: Go for lean turkey so it’s not too greasy.
- Cranberry sauce: Store-bought works fine if you don’t have time to make it.
- Slider buns: Whole wheat or regular, whichever you like. Gluten-free works too.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder (you can add onion powder or thyme if you want).
- Cheese (optional): Brie for creaminess or cheddar if you like it sharp.
Optional Add-Ins
- Fresh herbs: Try thyme or rosemary to make it smell awesome.
- Veggies: Spinach, arugula, or sliced red onion give crunch and color.
- Extra toppings: Avocado or a little mayo for more creaminess.
Directions: How to Make Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Follow these steps to make tasty sliders that everyone will enjoy.
4.1 Preparing the Turkey Mixture
Put the ground turkey in a big bowl. Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder and any other seasonings you like. Mix it all together with your hands or a spoon. If you want more cranberry flavor in the meat, stir in a spoonful of cranberry sauce or some chopped fresh cranberries.
4.2 Forming the Sliders
Take a handful of the turkey mix (about 2–3 ounces) and roll it into a ball. Press it flat so it’s a bit smaller than your bun, because it shrinks while cooking. Keep going until you’ve used all the meat.
4.3 Cooking Methods
You can cook these on the grill, in the oven, or on the stove:
- Grilling: Heat grill to medium. Cook patties 4–5 minutes per side or until the inside hits 165°F.
- Baking: Oven at 400°F. Bake on a sheet for 20–25 minutes, flip halfway through.
- Pan-frying: Heat a splash of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook 4–5 minutes each side till golden and done.
Make sure each patty reaches 165°F inside so it’s safe to eat.
4.4 Assembling the Sliders
Place a cooked patty on the bottom half of a bun. Add a slice of cheese if you like. Spoon a dollop of cranberry sauce on top then cap it with the other bun half. You can add fresh herbs or cucumber slices for extra crunch.
4.5 Serving Suggestions
These sliders go great with sweet potato fries, a green salad, or roasted veggies. For a party, stack them on a platter and stick in some toothpicks so folks can grab them easy.
Tips for Making the Perfect Cranberry Turkey Sliders
- Pick the right turkey: Lean turkey keeps it juicy but not greasy. Extra-lean can get dry.
- Don’t skip seasonings: Turkey is pretty bland on its own so be generous with spices.
- Swap sauces: If you want, try barbecue sauce or spicy aioli instead of cranberry.
- Storing leftovers: Keep in a sealed container in the fridge up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave or in a skillet until hot.
Variations on Cranberry Turkey Sliders
6.1 Different Protein Options
- Chicken sliders: Use ground chicken instead for a similar taste.
- Vegetarian: Mash black beans or chickpeas for a meatless option that still packs protein.
6.2 Flavor Twists
- Spicy cranberry glaze: Add hot sauce or mustard to your cranberry sauce for some heat.
- Honey mustard: Mix honey and Dijon mustard on top for a sweet tang.
6.3 Slider Buns Alternatives
- Lettuce wraps: Use big lettuce leaves like romaine instead of buns for low-carb.
- Mini pita breads: Swap buns for small pita pockets for a cool twist.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: About 200–250 per slider, depending on what you use.
- Protein: Lean turkey gives you good protein for muscles and keeps you full.
- Antioxidants: Cranberries are full of antioxidants that help your body fight stuff.
FAQs about Cranberry Turkey Sliders
8.1 Can i use leftover turkey to make sliders?
Yes you totally can, just shred or chop leftover turkey and mix it with a little sauce so it sticks together.
8.2 How can i make these sliders gluten-free?
Pick gluten-free buns and check that sauces dont have gluten in them.
8.3 What are good side dishes to serve with cranberry turkey sliders?
Try sweet potato fries, a green salad, or roasted veggies — they all work great.
8.4 How do i store leftover sliders?
Put them in an airtight box in the fridge and eat within 3 days.
8.5 Can i make these sliders in advance?
Sure, shape the patties early and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Conclusion
Cranberry turkey sliders are a fun twist on classic turkey dinners. They’re quick, tasty, and easy to change around for any event. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a weeknight, these sliders will make everyone happy.
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cranberry turkey sliders
Equipment
- 1 large skillet
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 cooking spatula
- 1 set measuring cups and spoons
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 parchment paper optional
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- ½ cup cranberry sauce store-bought or homemade
- ¼ cup bread crumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 6 pieces slider buns
- 6 slices Swiss cheese
- as needed fresh spinach or lettuce leaves optional
- as needed additional cranberry sauce for serving, optional
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, cranberry sauce, bread crumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Preheat the large skillet over medium heat. While the skillet heats, form the turkey mixture into 6 equal-sized patties.
- Once the skillet is hot, add the patties and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of Swiss cheese on each patty, allowing it to melt.
- While the patties are cooking, you can lightly toast the slider buns on a baking sheet in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, if desired.
- Assemble the sliders by placing a turkey patty on the bottom half of each bun. Add fresh spinach or lettuce, if using, and a dollop of additional cranberry sauce on top. Place the top half of the bun over the filling.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your cranberry turkey sliders!
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