Turkey Cranberry Sliders are like the holiday season wrapped up in a delicious bun. Imagine biting into tender turkey, perfectly balanced with the tartness of cranberry sauce, all nestled between two fluffy slider buns. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gravitating toward the dining table like moths to a flame.
These sliders are not just for Thanksgiving leftovers; they’re perfect for game days, casual get-togethers, or whenever you need a comfort food hug. I remember the first time I made these little beauties; it was a chaotic family gathering where my cooking skills were put to the test, and let me tell you, they saved the day!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Turkey Cranberry Sliders are incredibly easy to whip up and perfect for any occasion.
- The flavor combo of savory turkey and sweet cranberry is simply irresistible.
- Visually, they’re as appealing as they are tasty, with their golden-brown buns and vibrant toppings.
- Enjoy them as appetizers at parties or as a quick weeknight dinner—versatility at its finest!
Ingredients for Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Slider Buns: Choose soft, fluffy slider buns that can hold all the goodness without falling apart.
- Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey works best for a healthier option; aim for around 1 pound for about 12 sliders.
- Cranberry Sauce: Use homemade or store-bought; both can add that perfect tangy sweetness.
- Onion: Finely diced onion adds flavor and moisture; pick a sweet onion for extra yumminess.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar melts beautifully on top of the sliders.
For the Toppings:
- Fresh Spinach or Arugula: Adds freshness and a pop of color to your sliders.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because no one likes cold sliders unless you’re an ice cream lover.
Step 2: Prepare the Turkey Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, diced onion, salt, and pepper. Mix well using your hands (don’t worry; it’s totally acceptable) until everything is nicely integrated.
Step 3: Shape the Sliders
Divide the turkey mixture into equal portions (about two tablespoons each) and shape them into small patties. Aim for around twelve patties so everyone can have seconds—or thirds if you’re feeling generous.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the patties and cook for about five minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. If you’re unsure if they’re done, use a meat thermometer—165°F (75°C) is your magic number.
Step 5: Assemble with Love
Slice your slider buns in half horizontally. Place each turkey patty on the bottom half of the bun, add a spoonful of cranberry sauce on top, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over everything, and then cover with the top bun.
Step 6: Bake Those Sliders
Arrange your assembled sliders on a baking sheet and pop them into your preheated oven for about ten minutes until heated through and cheese is melty.
Transfer to plates and serve warm with fresh spinach or arugula on top for that extra crunch—because why not elevate our slider game?
The next time you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy an easy meal at home, give these Turkey Cranberry Sliders a try! They promise smiles around the table—and maybe even some dancing when everyone realizes how good they are!
You Must Know
- These turkey cranberry sliders are a delightful mix of savory and sweet.
- They are perfect for game day, holiday gatherings, or any day that calls for a delicious bite-sized treat.
- Packed with flavor and easy to whip up, they will be a hit at your table.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking your turkey patties in a hot skillet until golden brown. While the turkey cooks, prepare the cranberry sauce on the side. Toast the slider buns just before assembling for that perfect crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground turkey for chicken or even beef if you want a different taste. Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the turkey mixture for more flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses on top!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep them crispy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For juicy sliders, don’t overcook the turkey; moisture is key!
- Use fresh cranberry sauce for extra zing, and always toast your buns—this simple step prevents sogginess and enhances flavor.
Nothing beats that moment when my friends devoured these turkey cranberry sliders at my last game night. I couldn’t believe how quickly they vanished—definitely a recipe keeper!
FAQs
What are Turkey Cranberry Sliders?
Turkey cranberry sliders are delicious mini sandwiches made with flavorful turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and often topped with cheese. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers. These sliders can be served warm or cold and offer a delightful twist on traditional turkey dishes. They are easy to prepare and can be customized with various ingredients like herbs, spices, or additional toppings.
How do I make Turkey Cranberry Sliders?
To make turkey cranberry sliders, start by preparing the turkey and cranberry filling. Use cooked turkey, shredded or sliced, and mix it with your favorite cranberry sauce. For added flavor, consider including cream cheese or cheddar cheese. Layer the mixture between slider buns and bake until warmed through. This simple recipe allows you to enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving in a bite-sized form.
Can I use leftover turkey for Turkey Cranberry Sliders?
Absolutely! Using leftover turkey is one of the best ways to create tasty turkey cranberry sliders. Not only does it minimize food waste, but it also enhances the flavor of the sliders. Simply shred or slice the leftover turkey, combine it with cranberry sauce, and assemble your sliders. This makes for a quick meal that captures all the deliciousness of your holiday feast.
Are Turkey Cranberry Sliders suitable for meal prep?
Yes, turkey cranberry sliders are great for meal prep! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, just assemble the sliders on fresh buns and heat them in the oven or microwave. This makes them an excellent option for busy weekdays or quick lunches while still enjoying those festive flavors.
Conclusion for Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Turkey cranberry sliders offer a delightful combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberry sauce in a convenient mini sandwich form. They are perfect for using up leftovers from holiday meals while providing a quick and satisfying option for gatherings. With their ease of preparation and adaptability to various ingredients, these sliders will become a favorite among friends and family. Enjoy making this simple yet flavorful dish that is sure to impress!
Turkey Cranberry Sliders
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 sliders 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in the flavors of tender turkey and sweet cranberry sauce nestled in fluffy buns—perfect for gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 small sweet onion, finely diced
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh spinach or arugula (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Turkey Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, diced onion, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Shape the Sliders: Divide the turkey mixture into 12 equal portions and shape them into small patties.
- Cook the Patties: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add patties and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
- Assemble with Love: Slice slider buns horizontally. Place each turkey patty on the bottom half of a bun, add cranberry sauce, sprinkle with cheddar cheese, and cover with the top bun.
- Bake Those Sliders: Arrange assembled sliders on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
- Serve Warm: Transfer to plates and top with fresh spinach or arugula for added crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (approx. 95g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added flavor, incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the turkey mixture. Substitute ground turkey with chicken or beef if you prefer. Toasting the buns before assembly enhances texture and prevents sogginess.



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