Cranberry Turkey Sliders are like a warm hug on a cold day, bursting with juicy turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and a hint of holiday cheer. Picture this: the savory aroma wafts through your kitchen as you prepare these delightful sliders, each bite offering a perfect harmony of flavors that dance on your palate. For more inspiration, check out this delicious dinner recipes recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Cranberry Turkey Sliders</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use leftover turkey for cranberry turkey sliders?
- What type of cheese works best with cranberry turkey sliders?
- How do I prevent my slider buns from getting soggy?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now, if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably had moments where leftovers turned into culinary masterpieces. I distinctly remember the first time I whipped up these sliders after Thanksgiving; my family devoured them faster than I could say “leftover turkey.” They turned what could have been mundane into an unforgettable meal that brightened our winter evenings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are not only simple to make but also packed with flavor and visual appeal
- The vibrant colors make them a feast for the eyes
- Plus, they can easily be adapted for different dietary preferences
- Perfect for game days or cozy family dinners!
One time, I served these at a gathering, and my cousin declared them “the best thing since sliced bread.” That’s high praise from someone who usually only eats pizza!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Turkey: Opt for lean ground turkey for a healthier slider without sacrificing flavor.
Cranberry Sauce: Use homemade or store-bought; either adds a wonderful sweetness.
Slider Buns: Choose soft, yet sturdy buns that won’t fall apart under pressure.
Fresh Spinach or Arugula: For a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the turkey.
Mayonnaise or Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess; Greek yogurt is a lighter option.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in the sliders.
Sliced Cheese (optional): A mild cheese like provolone works beautifully to melt over the turkey.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Prepare the Turkey Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey with salt and pepper. Use your hands to mix until just combined; avoid overworking it to keep it tender.
Form Slider Patties: Divide the turkey mixture into equal portions and shape them into slider-sized patties. Aim for about ¼ inch thick so they cook evenly.
Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Cook each patty for about 5-6 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Add Cranberry Sauce and Cheese (optional): During the last minute of cooking, spoon cranberry sauce on top of each patty and add cheese slices if desired. Cover the skillet briefly so the cheese melts.
Assemble Your Sliders: Spread mayonnaise or Greek yogurt on each slider bun. Layer fresh spinach or arugula, followed by your turkey patty topped with more cranberry sauce if you fancy it extra saucy.
Serve and Enjoy!: Plate your sliders with some crispy sweet potato fries or veggie sticks on the side. Watch as everyone digs in with gusto!
And there you have it! Homemade Cranberry Turkey Sliders that will leave everyone asking for seconds—maybe even thirds! Each bit is an exquisite experience that encapsulates joy and comfort in every mouthful. Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- These cranberry turkey sliders are a delightful twist on traditional sandwiches
- The burst of tart cranberries combined with savory turkey creates an unforgettable flavor explosion
- Perfect for holiday gatherings or casual weeknight dinners, they bring joy and satisfaction to your taste buds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by roasting the turkey until golden brown, then prepare the slider buns while it rests. Assemble the sliders with cranberry sauce and cheese before toasting them to perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap turkey for chicken or add jalapeños for a spicy kick. You can also try different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for varied flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Keep your turkey moist by brining it overnight before roasting
- Use fresh cranberries for a vibrant flavor and color
- Toasting the buns adds crunch that elevates the entire experience
Creating these sliders always brings back fond memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and everyone enjoyed stuffing their faces with my culinary creations.
FAQ
Can I use leftover turkey for cranberry turkey sliders?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey adds great flavor and saves time in preparation.
What type of cheese works best with cranberry turkey sliders?
A mild cheese like mozzarella or a sharp cheddar complements these sliders perfectly.
How do I prevent my slider buns from getting soggy?
Toasting the buns before assembling keeps them crispy and prevents sogginess from sauces.
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📖 Recipe Card
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Cranberry Turkey Sliders
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Cranberry Turkey Sliders are a delightful fusion of savory turkey and tangy cranberry sauce, perfect for transforming holiday leftovers into a mouthwatering meal. These sliders are not only easy to make but also visually appealing, making them ideal for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these flavorful bites that will leave your guests raving.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 4 soft slider buns
- 1 cup fresh spinach or arugula
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices provolone cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix ground turkey with salt and pepper until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Shape the mixture into four slider-sized patties about ¼ inch thick.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add oil. Cook patties for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F).
- In the last minute of cooking, top each patty with cranberry sauce and cheese, covering briefly to melt the cheese.
- Assemble sliders by spreading mayonnaise or Greek yogurt on buns, layering with spinach/arugula, followed by the turkey patty and additional cranberry sauce if desired.
- Serve with crispy sweet potato fries or veggie sticks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
