Description
These Thanksgiving Turkey Cranberry Sliders offer a delightful twist on traditional holiday flavors, combining juicy sage-spiced ground turkey patties with melted cheese and tangy cranberry sauce, all nestled in soft slider buns. Perfect for festive gatherings or a fun appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Turkey Patties
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage (or 1 tablespoon dried sage)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Sliders
- 8 slider buns (soft brioche or whole wheat)
- 8 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese (or pepper jack for a spicy kick)
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Optional toppings: fresh spinach or arugula
Instructions
- Prepare the turkey mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely chopped onion, fresh sage, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the meat, which keeps the patties tender.
- Shape the patties: Divide the turkey mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each into a small patty about 2 inches in diameter. Press a small indentation in the center of each patty to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the patties: Heat a skillet or grill over medium heat and add olive oil. Once hot, place the patties on the cooking surface. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring they are safely cooked through.
- Melt the cheese: During the last minute of cooking, place a cheese slice on each patty. Cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt evenly and thoroughly.
- Toast the slider buns: While the patties cook, slice the slider buns in half and toast them lightly on another skillet or in the oven until they are golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Assemble the sliders: Spread a generous spoonful of cranberry sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add a turkey patty with melted cheese on top. For added freshness and texture, include optional toppings like fresh spinach or arugula.
- Serve: Top each slider with the bun’s top half, securing with a toothpick if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the harmonious blend of savory turkey, melted cheese, and tart cranberry flavors that capture the spirit of Thanksgiving.
Notes
- Use fresh sage for a more vibrant flavor, but dried sage can also be used if fresh is unavailable.
- Make sure patties reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Customize sliders with different cheeses or additional toppings like caramelized onions or crispy bacon for extra flavor.
- These sliders can be prepared ahead by shaping the patties and refrigerating before cooking.
- For a healthier option, choose whole wheat slider buns and use low-fat cheese.
