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Best Turkey Sliders with Cranberry Aioli – Easy 30-Minute Recipe

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These Best Turkey Sliders with Cranberry Aioli are proof that the best recipes often come from the most unexpected moments. They took a food I thought I hated and turned it into something I now crave.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground turkey (93/7 lean-to-fat ratio works best)
  • 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs (Panko works great)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
  • 1/2 cup whole-berry cranberry sauce
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • Pinch of salt
  • 12 slider buns (Hawaiian sweet rolls recommended)
  • 6 slices provolone or sharp white cheddar cheese, cut in half
  • Optional: a handful of fresh arugula or baby spinach

Instructions

  1. Make the Cranberry Aioli: In a small bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Set aside in the fridge.
  2. Prepare the Turkey Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until evenly distributed.
  3. Form the Patties: Divide the turkey mixture into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into a small patty about 2.5 inches in diameter.
  4. Cook the Patties: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, place the patties in the pan in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side until golden-brown, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). During the last minute, place a half-slice of cheese on each patty and cover the pan to melt the cheese.
  5. Toast the Buns (Optional but Recommended): Split the slider buns in half. Toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for about a minute, cut-side down, until lightly golden. Alternatively, place on a baking sheet under the broiler for 30-60 seconds.
  6. Assemble the Sliders: Spread a generous spoonful of cranberry aioli on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a cheesy turkey patty on top. Add arugula or spinach if using. Place the top bun on and press down gently.
  7. Serve Immediately: These sliders are best served warm, when the cheese is still melty and the bun has a slight crunch.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat to avoid tough patties. Get the pan hot enough for a good sear. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the patties reach 165°F (74°C). Toasting the buns prevents sogginess. Let the patties rest for a minute after cooking. For a party, assembled sliders can be kept warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven for up to 30 minutes.

Nutrition

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