Oh my gosh, let me tell you about these baked cranberry turkey sliders! They’re the perfect combination of savory turkey, sweet cranberry sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all nestled in a soft slider bun. Seriously, every bite is like a hug for your taste buds! I whip these up for gatherings, and they disappear faster than I can say “seconds, please!” Trust me, they’re a total crowd-pleaser, whether it’s a casual game night or a festive holiday get-together. Plus, they’re super easy to make! I remember the first time I served them—my friends couldn’t believe how delicious and simple they were. The bright cranberry flavor adds such a fun twist to traditional turkey sliders. You’re going to love making these as much as you’ll love eating them!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup packed cranberry sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (I love using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for the best melt!)
- 12 slider buns (make sure they’re soft and fluffy for the ultimate bite)
- 1 tablespoon mustard (adds a nice tangy kick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the patties)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy—seasoning is key!)
How to Prepare Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Getting these baked cranberry turkey sliders ready is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love how simple it is! Just follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll be on your way to slider heaven in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for that perfect melt later on!
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix it up well until everything is nicely incorporated. Don’t overdo it—just enough to blend!
- Now, form small patties from the turkey mixture. I usually aim for about 2-3 inches in diameter. It makes them the perfect size for the slider buns!
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook until they’re browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. You want them nice and golden, so flip them carefully!
- While those are cooking, grab your slider buns and layer a generous amount of cranberry sauce on the bottom half. This is where the magic begins!
- Once the patties are ready, place them on top of the cranberry sauce. Oh, it smells so good already!
- Now, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the patties. It’s gonna melt into the turkey and cranberry goodness—yum!
- Cover it all with the top half of the buns. You want to keep all that deliciousness tucked in!
- Pop the assembled sliders into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You might want to peek in and admire the gooey goodness!
And there you have it! Your baked cranberry turkey sliders are ready to be devoured. Just let them cool for a minute before serving, and don’t forget to keep some extra cranberry sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
These baked cranberry turkey sliders not only taste amazing but they’re pretty balanced too! Here’s a quick look at the typical nutritional values for one slider, though keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients you use:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Cholesterol: 60mg
So, whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying a cozy night in, you can feel good about indulging in these tasty sliders!
Tips for Success
Let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure your baked cranberry turkey sliders turn out absolutely perfect every time!
- Don’t Overmix: When mixing the turkey and seasonings, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to tough patties, and we definitely want them tender and juicy!
- Use a Meat Thermometer: If you’re unsure whether the patties are cooked through, use a meat thermometer! They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Pepper jack adds a nice kick, while gouda gives a smoky flavor. Just imagine the melty goodness!
- Keep an Eye on the Oven: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your sliders while they bake. You want that cheese bubbly but not burnt!
- Let Them Rest: After baking, let the sliders rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes them easier to eat.
- Try Different Sauces: While cranberry sauce is fabulous, don’t hesitate to try different sauces like BBQ or aioli for a twist. It’s all about your taste!
- Serve with Style: Presentation matters! Arrange the sliders on a platter with extra cranberry sauce, pickles, or veggies on the side for a delightful display.
With these tips, you’re well on your way to slider success! You’re going to impress everyone with your delicious creations!
Variations
One of the best things about these baked cranberry turkey sliders is how versatile they are! You can easily switch things up to keep your taste buds dancing. Here are some fun ideas to inspire your creativity in the kitchen:
- Spicy Kick: Add some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the turkey mixture for a little heat! It balances beautifully with the sweet cranberry sauce.
- BBQ Twist: Swap out the cranberry sauce for your favorite BBQ sauce. Trust me, the smoky sweetness is a game-changer!
- Herbed Goodness: Mix fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme into the turkey for an extra layer of flavor. It’s like a garden party in your sliders!
- Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different types of cheese! Try feta for a Mediterranean flair or pepper jack for a zesty kick. The melting cheese is where the magic happens!
- Veggie Boost: Add some finely chopped spinach or shredded zucchini to the turkey mix for a nutritious boost. It’s a sneaky way to get more veggies in without sacrificing flavor!
- Sweet and Savory: Top your sliders with caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms for that perfect sweet and savory combo. They add such a lovely depth of flavor!
- Mini Meatloaf Sliders: For a fun twist, mix in breadcrumbs and an egg to the turkey mixture and form larger patties. Bake them longer for mini meatloaf sliders that are sure to impress!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas or come up with your own! The kitchen is your playground, and I can’t wait for you to discover your perfect version of these sliders!
Serving Suggestions
Now that your baked cranberry turkey sliders are fresh out of the oven and looking delicious, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside them! Trust me, these sliders are great on their own, but pairing them with the right sides or dips can elevate your meal to a whole new level!
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries are a perfect match! Their natural sweetness complements the tangy cranberry sauce beautifully. Plus, who doesn’t love fries?
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, refreshing coleslaw adds a nice contrast to the richness of the sliders. You can go classic with a creamy dressing or opt for a tangy vinaigrette for a lighter touch.
- Mixed Green Salad: Serve up a simple mixed green salad with a zesty dressing! The freshness of the greens balances the sliders, making it a light and satisfying meal.
- Pickles: A side of dill pickles or pickled veggies adds a delightful crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness. Trust me, it’s a match made in heaven!
- Extra Cranberry Sauce: Don’t forget to have some extra cranberry sauce on the side for dipping! It’s a sweet and tart addition that enhances every bite of the sliders.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: For a truly indulgent side, whip up some cheesy garlic bread! The gooey cheese and garlic flavor are irresistible and pair well with the sliders.
- Vegetable Platter: For a lighter option, a colorful vegetable platter with hummus or ranch dip can be a great way to round out your meal. It adds a nice crunch and freshness!
So, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, these serving suggestions will help you create a delightful spread that your guests (or you!) will be raving about. Enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ Section
Got questions about these baked cranberry turkey sliders? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear, plus my answers to help you out.
Can I use leftover turkey for these sliders?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works like a charm here. Just shred or chop it up and mix it with the mustard and seasonings. It’s a great way to use up holiday leftovers!
What kind of cheese works best?
I love using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for the best melt, but feel free to get creative! Pepper jack adds a spicy kick, while gouda gives it a creamy, smoky flavor. Yum!
Can I freeze the sliders?
Yes, you can! Just assemble the sliders and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy them, pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, and they’ll be delicious!
How do I know when the patties are cooked through?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer! Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, cut a patty in half to check that it’s no longer pink inside.
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prep the patties and buns separately, store them in the fridge, and then assemble and bake them just before serving. It’s a great way to save time!
What should I serve with the sliders?
Oh, there are so many delicious options! Sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a mixed green salad all complement the sliders perfectly. And don’t forget extra cranberry sauce for dipping!
Can I use other sauces instead of cranberry?
Of course! While cranberry sauce is a classic, you can switch it out for BBQ sauce, aioli, or even a spicy mayo for a fun twist. The possibilities are endless!
Are these sliders gluten-free?
Yes! If you use gluten-free slider buns, these baked cranberry turkey sliders can easily be made gluten-free. Just double-check the labels to ensure everything is safe for your diet.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
- Deliciously balanced flavors of savory turkey and sweet cranberry sauce that everyone will love.
- Great for meal prep; you can make them ahead of time and bake when you’re ready!
- Customizable to suit your taste—experiment with different sauces and toppings!
- Kid-friendly and sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
- Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a cozy night in with friends and family.
- Leftover turkey can be used, making it a fantastic way to reduce food waste!
- They’re baked, not fried, giving you a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders: 7 Irresistible Flavor Hits
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious baked cranberry turkey sliders perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 12 slider buns
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix ground turkey, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Form small patties from the mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the patties until browned.
- Layer cranberry sauce on the bottom half of the slider buns.
- Place cooked patties on top of the sauce.
- Add shredded cheese over the patties.
- Cover with the top half of the buns.
- Bake in the oven for 15 minutes or until the cheese melts.
Notes
- Use leftover turkey for a quicker option.
- Adjust the amount of cranberry sauce to your taste.
- Serve with additional cranberry sauce on the side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: baked cranberry turkey sliders, turkey sliders, cranberry sliders, slider recipes
