Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these baked cranberry turkey sliders! They’re not just any sliders; they’re a savory explosion of flavor that brings a delightful twist to your gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. I love making these when friends come over because they’re so easy to whip up, and the combination of ground turkey and cranberry sauce is just genius! Picture this: juicy turkey patties topped with melted cheddar cheese, all nestled in soft slider rolls. Trust me, they’re a hit every single time. Whether you’re serving them at a game night or just craving something yummy, these sliders are sure to impress!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground turkey: Choose lean ground turkey for a healthier option that still packs tons of flavor.
- 1 cup cranberry sauce: Use a quality cranberry sauce—homemade or store-bought—that’s not too sweet.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion: This adds a nice sweetness and depth to the sliders, so chop it finely for even distribution.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: I like using plain breadcrumbs to help bind the patties without overpowering the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder is perfect for that subtle garlicky kick without the fuss of chopping fresh garlic.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your turkey mixture.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a bit of warmth and spice.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the patties, olive oil adds richness and helps achieve a nice golden brown.
- 8 slider rolls: Choose soft slider rolls that can hold all that deliciousness without falling apart.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded: Go for sharp cheddar to bring a bold, tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.
How to Prepare Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even cooking and that your cheese melts beautifully. While that’s heating up, gather your ingredients and get your cooking area ready—cleaning as you go makes everything smoother!
Mixing Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, cranberry sauce, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to gently mix everything together until just combined. You don’t want to overmix, as that can make the patties tough. Aim for a cohesive mixture that holds together well.
Cooking the Patties
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place your patties into the skillet, cooking them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. This browning is key—it gives the sliders a delicious crust and adds depth of flavor!
Assembling the Sliders
Once your patties are cooked, place each one onto a slider roll. Top them generously with shredded cheddar cheese, making sure it covers the turkey patty beautifully. Presentation is everything, so arrange them on a serving platter for that extra wow factor!
Baking for Perfection
Now, pop your assembled sliders into the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them—nobody wants burnt cheese! This step pulls everything together, creating a gooey, savory treat that’s hard to resist.
Tips for Success
To make sure your baked cranberry turkey sliders turn out perfectly every time, focus on the quality of your ingredients. Fresh, high-quality ground turkey will give you the best flavor and texture. Don’t skip on the seasoning—taste your turkey mixture before forming the patties to ensure it’s well-seasoned. For cooking, keep the skillet at medium heat; too high, and the outside will burn before the inside cooks through. If you want extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the mixture. Lastly, let the sliders rest for a minute after baking to allow the flavors to meld, making every bite even more delicious!
Variations on Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders
There are so many fun ways to mix things up with these baked cranberry turkey sliders! For a different flavor profile, try swapping out the cheddar cheese for creamy brie or tangy goat cheese—both melt beautifully and add a gourmet touch. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some chopped fresh herbs like sage or thyme into the turkey mixture for an aromatic lift. Want a bit of heat? Add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the mix. And don’t forget about toppings! A dollop of spicy mustard or a slice of avocado can elevate these sliders to a whole new level. Get creative and make them your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have any leftover baked cranberry turkey sliders (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re cooled completely before sealing them up to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, the best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the sliders on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. This way, you’ll keep that delightful texture intact!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary widely depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use. The figures provided here are based on standard measurements and should be considered as general guidelines. Always check your ingredient labels for the most accurate information.
FAQ Section
Can I use a different meat for these sliders? Absolutely! Ground chicken or even ground beef can be great alternatives to turkey. Just keep in mind that different meats may alter the flavor and moisture content of your sliders, so adjust seasoning as needed.
What can I serve with these sliders? These baked cranberry turkey sliders are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate your meal with sides like sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or even a warm soup for a cozy dinner.
Can I make these sliders ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the turkey patties in advance and refrigerate them for a day or two before cooking. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly before serving.
What’s the best way to reheat the leftovers? For the best texture, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This keeps the slider rolls soft and the cheese melty!
Can I add more ingredients to the turkey mixture? Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite spices or chopped veggies to customize your sliders. Just be sure to balance the moisture if you add wet ingredients!
Print
Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders: 5 Steps to Tasty Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 sliders 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Savory baked cranberry turkey sliders with a burst of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 slider rolls
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine ground turkey, cranberry sauce, onion, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches wide.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.
- Place the patties on the slider rolls.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 10 minutes or until the cheese melts.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños to the turkey mixture.
- You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef.
- Serve with additional cranberry sauce on the side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking and Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: baked cranberry turkey sliders, turkey sliders, cranberry sauce sliders