Turkey & Cranberry Sliders Savory and Simple Delight

If you’re looking for an easy and tasty meal, Turkey & Cranberry Sliders are a must-try! These sliders pack a punch with savory turkey, fresh cranberry sauce, and melty cheese. They are simple to make and perfect for any day. In this post, I’ll guide you through each step, from gathering ingredients to cooking and serving. Get ready to impress your taste buds with this savory delight!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 pound ground turkey

– 1/2 cup fresh cranberry sauce

– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

You will need ground turkey as the main protein. It has a mild taste that blends well with other flavors. Fresh cranberry sauce adds a tangy sweetness that brightens the dish. Breadcrumbs help bind the mixture, giving it a nice texture. Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

Spices and Seasonings

– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

Dijon mustard gives a nice kick to the sliders. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth and warmth. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Use these spices wisely to create a balanced taste.

Additional Components

– 8 slider buns

– 4 slices of cheddar cheese

– 1/2 cup arugula or mixed greens

– Olive oil for grilling

Slider buns hold everything together. Choose soft ones for a perfect bite. Cheddar cheese melts beautifully on the patties, adding creaminess. Arugula or mixed greens offer a crisp, fresh contrast. Olive oil helps prevent sticking during grilling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Turkey Mixture

To start, you need to combine all the ingredients in a large bowl. Add the ground turkey, fresh cranberry sauce, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is fully combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture; this keeps the sliders tender.

Next, divide the mixture into eight equal parts. Shape each part into small patties, about the size of your slider buns. This makes sure they fit perfectly when you assemble the sliders later.

Cooking the Sliders

For cooking, preheat your grill or a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to keep the patties from sticking. Cook the turkey patties for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures they are safe to eat.

In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty. This allows the cheese to melt nicely, adding rich flavor to your sliders.

Assembling the Sliders

While the patties cook, get your slider buns ready. Lightly toast them on the grill or in a toaster until they turn golden brown. This step adds a nice crunch to your sliders.

Now it’s time to assemble! Place a turkey patty on the bottom half of each bun. Top it with arugula or mixed greens for a fresh touch. Finally, add the top half of the bun.

Serve the sliders warm. You can even offer extra cranberry sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your tasty creation!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Sliders

To make the best turkey sliders, avoid overworking the turkey mixture. Mix until just combined. This keeps your sliders tender. If you mix too much, they can become tough.

Timing for melting cheese is key. Add a slice of cheddar cheese during the last minute of cooking. This gives the cheese time to melt perfectly. It creates a gooey and delicious topping for your sliders.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your sliders with extra cranberry sauce. This adds a nice sweet touch. You can serve it on the side for dipping. It enhances the turkey’s flavor and makes each bite special.

For sides, consider simple options like sweet potato fries or a fresh salad. Both complement the sliders well. They add a nice crunch and balance the meal.

Grilling Tips

To prevent sticking, lightly oil your grill or skillet. Use a drizzle of olive oil before cooking the patties. This helps them release easily and keeps them juicy.

Temperature management is crucial. Cook the turkey patties over medium heat. This ensures even cooking. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for safety.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can switch out the ground turkey for ground chicken or beef. Both options work well and bring their own taste. Ground chicken has a lighter flavor, while beef adds a richer depth.

For cheese, try Swiss, pepper jack, or even a creamy goat cheese. Each type gives a new twist to your sliders.

Flavor Customizations

Add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to boost the flavor. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick.

For sauces, consider BBQ, ranch, or a spicy aioli. These sauces can contrast nicely with the sweet cranberry.

Bun Alternatives

If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free slider buns. Many stores sell them, so you can still enjoy a tasty slider.

Lettuce wraps are a fun and fresh choice. They keep the dish light and are great for anyone avoiding bread. Just use sturdy leaves like romaine or butter lettuce for the best support.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Tips

To keep your Turkey & Cranberry Sliders fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container. This helps prevent drying and keeps flavors intact. They will last in the fridge for up to three days. Always cool the sliders to room temperature before sealing them away.

Freezing Sliders

You can freeze both cooked and uncooked patties. For cooked patties, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each patty in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can stay frozen for up to three months. For uncooked patties, shape them and place on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a bag. To reheat, cook from frozen for about 10 minutes on each side or until they reach 165°F (74°C).

Meal Prep Ideas

These sliders fit perfectly into meal prep. You can cook a batch and store them in the fridge or freezer. To freeze assembled sliders, wrap each one in foil. This way, you can heat them up easily later. They will be ready for a quick lunch or dinner on busy days.

FAQs

What can I substitute for fresh cranberry sauce?

You can use homemade or store-bought options.

– Homemade alternatives: Make a quick sauce by cooking fresh or frozen cranberries with sugar and water. Simmer until soft. Add spices like cinnamon or orange zest for extra flavor. This gives you a fresh taste similar to store-bought.

– Store-bought options: Look for jarred cranberry sauce in the store. Many brands offer a range of flavors, including whole berry and jellied. Choose one that suits your taste.

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sliders in advance.

– Preparing in advance: You can mix the turkey and cranberry sauce ahead of time. Shape the patties and store them in the fridge for up to one day. This makes cooking easy on the day you serve them.

– Reheating suggestions: If you cook the sliders ahead, store them in the fridge. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat. You can also use the microwave but be careful not to dry them out.

How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked?

Knowing when turkey is done is crucial for safety.

– Importance of internal temperature: The turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures all harmful bacteria are killed and the meat is safe to eat.

– Best practices for checking doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the patty. Avoid touching the skillet. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the patty. The meat should be white and juices should run clear.

These turkey sliders are both easy and fun to make. We covered the key ingredients, spices, and cooking methods. I shared tips to help you avoid common mistakes. You learned how to store them for later enjoyment.

Feel free to change up the flavors and ingredients to fit your taste. Try different buns or sauces to make them your own. Enjoy these tasty sliders at your next meal or even