Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe

There’s a festive and flavorful twist to a Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe that makes it a delightful option for quick meals or gatherings. Perfect for home cooks looking to combine savory turkey with a hint of sweet-tart cranberry, these sliders are easy to assemble and packed with taste. Ideal for holiday leftovers or a casual dinner, they bring a cozy, comforting vibe to any table. Serve them with your favorite sides for a satisfying, bite-sized treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 12 slider buns: Provides a soft, sturdy base.
• 1 lb (450g) ground turkey: Forms the juicy, lean patties.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the flavor profile.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the seasoning.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for cooking the patties.
• ½ cup (120g) cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied): Brings sweet-tart contrast.
• 6 slices Swiss cheese, halved: Adds a melty, nutty layer.
• 1 cup (30g) arugula or spinach: Offers a fresh, peppery bite.
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted: For brushing the buns.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an herby finish.

This Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe starts with ground turkey seasoned with garlic and onion powders for a flavorful patty—lean meat keeps it light! Olive oil ensures a golden sear, while cranberry sauce adds a festive, tangy sweetness. Swiss cheese melts beautifully over the patties, and arugula brings a fresh crunch. Brushed with butter and sprinkled with thyme, these sliders are a quick, delicious blend of savory and sweet, perfect for any occasion.

How to Make Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prepares for toasting the assembled sliders—tip: a light grease prevents sticking!

Step 2: Prepare the Patties

In a bowl, mix ground turkey, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form into 12 small patties, about 2 inches wide—keep them uniform for even cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

Slice the slider buns in half and place the bottoms on the baking sheet. Spread a teaspoon of cranberry sauce on each bottom bun. Top with a turkey patty, half a slice of Swiss cheese, and a few arugula leaves. Cap with the top buns.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

Brush the tops of the buns with melted butter and sprinkle with dried thyme. Cover with foil and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and buns are lightly toasted—remove foil for the last 2 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the Cranberry Turkey Sliders warm, perfect with chips, a pickle spear, or a side of coleslaw for a complete meal!

How to Serve Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Garnishes

Drizzle with a touch of extra cranberry sauce or add a sprinkle of cracked pepper. Top with a thin slice of red onion for bite, or garnish with a fresh thyme sprig for elegance. A dab of mustard adds a tangy kick.

Side Dishes

Pair with sweet potato fries or a simple green salad to balance the flavors. Serve with a bowl of soup or a side of roasted veggies for a hearty combo that complements the sliders.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the Cranberry Turkey Sliders on a large platter with toothpicks for a party buffet, or serve in a basket lined with a napkin for a casual vibe. Stack on a tiered stand with dipping sauces, or pack into lunch boxes with a fruit cup for a portable lunch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Cranberry Turkey Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to restore texture—cover to avoid drying.

Freezing

Freeze the cooked patties (without buns) for up to 1 month by wrapping individually. Thaw overnight in the fridge and assemble with fresh buns before reheating.

Reheating

Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, wrapped in foil, or microwave for 20-30 seconds per slider—add a dab of butter if needed to keep moist.

FAQs

Can I use leftover turkey instead of ground turkey?

Yes, shred cooked turkey and mix with a bit of broth or sauce to form patties—adjust seasoning as needed for your Cranberry Turkey Sliders.

What if I don’t have Swiss cheese?

Provolone or cheddar work as substitutes—choose based on your preference for melt and flavor.

Can I make these spicy?

Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the turkey mix or serve with a spicy mayo for a kick in your sliders.

How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?

Toast the buns lightly before assembling, and add arugula or cheese as a barrier between the cranberry sauce and bun.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe is a tasty treat I can’t wait for you to try! Its sweet-tart cranberry and savory turkey make it perfect for any day. Whether you’re hosting or packing a lunch, these sliders bring joy to every bite. So gather your ingredients and enjoy the flavor—let me know how it turns out!

Print