Oh, let me tell you about these baked cranberry turkey sliders! They’re not just any sliders; they’re a comforting, delicious treat that brings everyone together, whether it’s for a family gathering or a cozy night in. Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, savory turkey patty, perfectly complemented by the sweet and tangy cranberry sauce. It’s like a hug in food form! The best part? They’re incredibly easy to whip up, so you won’t be stressing in the kitchen. Just a few simple ingredients come together to create something truly special.
This recipe is fantastic for anyone looking to add a little twist to their usual turkey dish. You can customize these sliders to suit your taste or dietary needs, too! Whether you’re using lean turkey or swapping in ground chicken, there’s room for creativity here. Plus, they bake up in just about 25 minutes, making them a great option for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings. Trust me, once you try these sliders, they’ll become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to create these mouthwatering baked cranberry turkey sliders. I’ve kept it simple and straightforward, so you can easily gather all the ingredients before you start cooking. Let’s dive in!
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade, whichever you prefer)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (these help hold the patties together)
- 1/4 cup chopped onion (finely chopped for a subtle flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for that lovely aroma and taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (to enhance all those flavors)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for a little kick)
- 8 slider buns (choose your favorite type, like whole grain or classic)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, but I highly recommend it for extra creaminess – cheddar or mozzarella works great!)
Feel free to adjust any of these ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. For example, if you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use ground chicken instead of turkey. It’s all about making it work for you!
How to Prepare Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the fun part – preparing these baked cranberry turkey sliders! I promise, it’s super easy, and I’ll guide you through each step. Just follow along, and soon you’ll have a tasty dish everyone will love!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is key because it helps the sliders cook evenly and gives them that perfect texture. While you’re mixing your ingredients, the oven will be warming up, so it’s ready to go when you are!
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, cranberry sauce, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a fork or your hands to mix everything together until well combined. You’re looking for a nice, cohesive mixture that holds together but isn’t too sticky. It should feel moist, but not overly wet. If it’s too dry, a little more cranberry sauce can help!
Step 3: Form the Patties
Now, it’s time to form your patties! Take a handful of the mixture and shape it into a small patty, about the size of your slider buns. You want them to be uniform in size so they cook evenly. A good tip is to wet your hands slightly; this helps prevent sticking. Try to keep them about 1/2 inch thick – not too thick, or they’ll take longer to cook through.
Step 4: Bake the Patties
Place your formed patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze! Bake them in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and cooked through. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety. Just give them a little poke to check – no need to stress!
Step 5: Add Cheese
If you’re a cheese lover like me, this is the moment to shine! About 5 minutes before the patties are done, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. It will melt beautifully, adding a creamy layer of flavor that takes these sliders to the next level. Yum!
Step 6: Assemble the Sliders
Once your patties are out of the oven, let them cool for a minute. Then, place each patty in a slider bun. You can add extra cranberry sauce on top for that delicious contrast of flavors. Feel free to get creative with toppings too – lettuce, tomato, or even a dollop of yogurt can make it even tastier. Enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success
To ensure your baked cranberry turkey sliders turn out delicious every time, here are some handy tips. First, don’t skip the breadcrumbs—they’re essential for holding the patties together. If you want a gluten-free option, feel free to use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed gluten-free crackers!
Also, make sure to finely chop the onion; this helps it blend seamlessly into the mixture and prevents any big bites that might overpower the other flavors. If you’re not a fan of onion, you could substitute it with grated zucchini for extra moisture and nutrition.
For an extra flavor boost, try adding some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the mix. This little addition makes a world of difference! And if you want a kick, a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes can spice things up.
Lastly, don’t hesitate to experiment with your slider buns! Whole grain or even a sweet Hawaiian roll can elevate your sliders. The key is to make this recipe your own while keeping it simple and comforting. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying baked cranberry turkey sliders, it’s always good to know what you’re fueling your body with! Here’s a general idea of the nutritional content per slider:
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Please keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. If you’re making any substitutions or adjustments, the nutritional information may change as well. This is just a general guide to help you make informed choices while enjoying these delightful sliders!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different meat?
Absolutely! If you’d prefer a different flavor, ground chicken or even lean ground beef works wonderfully in this recipe. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose, so be sure to check for doneness as you go. You can also try using ground turkey breast for an even leaner option!
How can I make these sliders healthier?
There are plenty of ways to make these baked cranberry turkey sliders a bit healthier! Start with lean turkey or ground chicken, as they have less fat. You can also opt for whole grain slider buns, which add fiber and nutrients. If you want to cut down on sodium, consider making your own cranberry sauce with less added sugar. And don’t forget to load up on veggies—adding lettuce, tomatoes, or even avocado can enhance both the flavor and nutritional value!
What can I serve with these sliders?
These sliders are so versatile! They pair beautifully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter meal. If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, sweet potato fries or a classic coleslaw make fantastic sides. You could even whip up a cozy soup like tomato or butternut squash for a heartwarming combination. Whatever you choose, it’s sure to complement the flavors of your sliders perfectly!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- They’re incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- The unique combination of turkey and cranberry sauce creates a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors that everyone will love.
- These sliders are great for gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy a delicious bite-sized treat without the fuss.
- With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal in no time.
- They’re customizable! Swap ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs, and make them your own.
- These sliders bake up beautifully in the oven, freeing you to focus on other tasks while they cook.
- They’re perfect for meal prep—make a batch ahead of time and reheat for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Kids and adults alike will enjoy these sliders, making them a hit for family dinners or friendly get-togethers.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After enjoying your delicious baked cranberry turkey sliders, you might find yourself with some leftovers—lucky you! Storing them properly ensures they stay fresh and tasty for your next meal.
To store your sliders, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re cooled down to room temperature before sealing them up, as this helps prevent moisture buildup that can lead to sogginess.
If you plan to enjoy them later, freezing is a great option too! Wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
For reheating, the oven is your best friend! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C), place the sliders on a baking sheet, and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Heat them for about 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be cautious—microwaving can sometimes make the buns a bit chewy. If you go that route, heat them in short intervals, checking frequently.
Enjoy those leftovers just as much as the first serving!
Print
Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders: 5 Steps to Comforting Joy
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 sliders 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Delicious baked cranberry turkey sliders perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 slider buns
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, cranberry sauce, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into small patties.
- Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
- If using cheese, add it on top of the patties in the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Serve on slider buns with extra cranberry sauce if desired.
Notes
- Use lean turkey for a healthier option.
- Substitute ground chicken or beef if preferred.
- Try different types of cheese like cheddar or mozzarella.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: baked cranberry turkey sliders, turkey sliders, cranberry sauce, easy recipes
