Turkey Sliders Recipe
Introduction
These turkey sliders are a flavorful and easy-to-make alternative to traditional beef sliders. Juicy ground turkey patties are seasoned and topped with melted sharp Cheddar cheese, then nestled into soft Hawaiian sweet rolls. Perfect for a casual dinner or game day snack.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds ground turkey (preferably 85 percent lean)
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Kosher salt and ground black pepper
- Ground cayenne (optional)
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
- 6 slices sharp Cheddar (about 6 ounces), each torn into 4 squares
- 1 (12-ounce) package Hawaiian sweet rolls (12 buns), split
- Barbecue sauce, mayonnaise, caramelized onions, and pickle chips (optional), for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, onion powder, 1½ teaspoons salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and a large pinch of cayenne if using. Mix gently to combine. On a large plate or cutting board, divide the mixture into 12 equal portions (about 1/4 cup each) and form each into a 2½-inch-wide patty.
- Step 2: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. When the oil is hot, add 6 patties and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through with no pink in the center.
- Step 3: Place 2 squares of Cheddar cheese on each cooked patty. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes more, until the cheese melts. Transfer the patties to a plate and repeat the cooking process with the remaining 6 patties and cheese.
- Step 4: Preheat the broiler. Place the split Hawaiian sweet rolls cut side up on a baking sheet. Broil on the top rack of the oven until just toasted, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Step 5: Assemble the sliders by spreading barbecue sauce and mayonnaise on both sides of the toasted buns, if desired. Add a turkey patty to each bun and top with caramelized onions and pickle chips, if using. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, use freshly caramelized onions or add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the turkey mixture.
- Substitute sharp Cheddar with pepper jack or Swiss cheese for a different twist.
- Try adding a slice of tomato or lettuce for freshness and crunch.
- Cook patties on a grill pan for a smoky, charred flavor.
Storage
Store leftover turkey sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. To keep buns from getting soggy, store patties and buns separately when possible.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use leaner ground turkey for this recipe?
Yes, but 85 percent lean ground turkey helps keep the patties juicy. Leaner turkey may result in drier sliders, so consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or a bit of finely grated zucchini to maintain moisture.
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
You can prepare the turkey patties in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Assemble the sliders just before serving to keep the buns fresh and the cheese melted perfectly.
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Turkey Sliders Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These flavorful Turkey Sliders are made with lean ground turkey seasoned with aromatic spices and cooked to juicy perfection. Served on sweet Hawaiian rolls with melted sharp Cheddar cheese, they make a delightful appetizer or main dish option. Optional toppings like barbecue sauce, mayonnaise, caramelized onions, and pickle chips add layers of savory and tangy flavors for a delicious slider experience.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1½ pounds ground turkey (preferably 85 percent lean)
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste
- Ground cayenne (optional, large pinch)
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
- 6 slices sharp Cheddar (about 6 ounces), each torn into 4 squares
- 1 (12-ounce) package Hawaiian sweet rolls (12 buns), split
Optional Toppings
- Barbecue sauce
- Mayonnaise
- Caramelized onions
- Pickle chips
Instructions
- Prepare the turkey patties: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, onion powder, 1½ teaspoons salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and a large pinch of cayenne pepper if using. Mix gently but thoroughly to evenly distribute the seasonings. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions, about 1/4 cup each, and shape each into 2 ½-inch-wide patties on a clean plate or cutting board.
- Cook the patties: Heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once the oil is hot, add 6 patties to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until they are slightly browned on the outside and no longer pink inside. About one minute before finishing, place 2 squares of sharp Cheddar cheese on each patty and cook for 1 to 2 more minutes until the cheese melts. Remove the cooked patties to a plate. Repeat the process with the remaining patties and cheese.
- Toast the buns: Preheat the broiler and place the split Hawaiian sweet rolls on a baking sheet. Position the baking sheet on a rack in the top third of the oven and broil the buns until just toasted and lightly browned. Keep a close watch to avoid burning, as broiling works quickly.
- Assemble the sliders: If desired, spread a generous amount of barbecue sauce and mayonnaise on both sides of the toasted buns. Place a cheesy turkey patty on the bottom half of each bun, then top with optional caramelized onions and pickle chips. Close with the top bun and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use 85% lean ground turkey for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
- Keep an eye on the buns while broiling; they can burn quickly under high heat.
- Feel free to customize toppings to your liking, such as adding lettuce or tomato for freshness.
- Ensure the turkey patties are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Leftover cooked patties can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: turkey sliders, ground turkey recipes, easy sliders, Hawaiian sweet rolls, cheesy turkey burgers, appetizer sliders
