Juicy Turkey Sliders with Slaw

This hearty turkey slider recipe has become my holiday season go-to when I want something festive but not too heavy. The combination of juicy turkey patties with the bright, tangy cranberry slaw creates mini burgers that deliver big flavor in every bite.

I first created these sliders for a casual family gathering the weekend after Thanksgiving when everyone was tired of traditional leftovers but still craved those familiar flavors. They disappeared faster than any dish I had made in months!

Ingredients

• Ground turkey: 93% lean provides the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness without excessive fat
• Fresh cranberries: Add a bright pop of holiday flavor and beautiful color to the slaw
• Shallots: Offer a milder more sophisticated flavor than regular onions
• Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the savory notes in the turkey patties
• Mixture of green and red cabbage: Creates visual appeal and textural contrast
• Apple cider vinegar: Brightens the slaw and balances the richness of the mayo

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Slaw:

Combine both varieties of cabbage with the fresh chopped cranberries and grated carrot in a medium bowl. The fine texture ensures the slaw will sit nicely on the sliders without falling off. Whisk mayo, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper in a separate small bowl until completely smooth. Pour this dressing over the vegetables and toss thoroughly to coat every piece. Let the flavors meld in the refrigerator while you prepare the patties.

Mix the Turkey Patties:

Place ground turkey in a large bowl and add the minced shallot, garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands to gently mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing will make the patties tough so stop as soon as everything is incorporated. Form into six even-sized patties making them slightly wider than your buns to account for shrinkage.

Cook to Perfection:

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add the patties without overcrowding the pan, cooking for 4 to 5 minutes on the first side until a golden crust forms. Flip carefully and cook another 4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the patties are no longer pink in the center.

Toast the Buns:

While the patties finish cooking, lightly butter or oil the cut sides of your slider buns. Place them cut side down in a dry skillet over medium heat and toast until golden brown, about 1 to 2 minutes. This creates a barrier that prevents the buns from getting soggy from the juicy patties and slaw.

Assemble with Care:

Place each cooked turkey patty on a toasted bottom bun. Top with a generous spoonful of the cranberry slaw, allowing some to cascade down the sides for visual appeal. Add optional arugula for a peppery freshness and place the top bun at a slight angle to showcase the colorful slaw within.

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The cranberry slaw is truly what makes these sliders special. My daughter, who typically avoids anything resembling coleslaw, actually asks for extra on her slider. The vibrant red color makes these perfect for holiday gatherings, but I now make them year-round using dried cranberries when fresh aren’t available.

Make Ahead Options

The cranberry slaw can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. In fact, the flavors improve with a little time to meld. The patty mixture can also be combined and shaped ahead of time, then covered and refrigerated overnight. Just bring the patties to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking for the most even results.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders are substantial enough to serve as a main dish when paired with a side like sweet potato fries or a simple green salad. For parties, arrange them on a large platter with decorative toothpicks to hold them together. I love to serve them alongside a cranberry spritzer for a complete themed experience during holiday gatherings or game days.

Flavor Variations

While this recipe is delicious as written, there are several ways to customize it. Try adding a tablespoon of chopped fresh sage or rosemary to the turkey mixture for an herbal note. For cheese lovers, a slice of melted Brie or Swiss adds richness that complements the tart cranberries beautifully. You can also spice up the slaw with a pinch of cayenne or a teaspoon of horseradish for adult palates.

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Common Questions

→ Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works as an excellent substitute for turkey in these sliders. The cooking time and temperature remain the same, though chicken might be slightly milder in flavor. Consider adding an extra dash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of poultry seasoning to enhance the flavor.

→ How can I make these sliders gluten-free?

To make these sliders gluten-free, simply substitute regular slider buns with gluten-free buns. Also, verify your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free as some brands contain malt vinegar. The slaw and turkey patty ingredients are naturally gluten-free when using pure ingredients.

→ Can I prepare the cranberry slaw ahead of time?

Yes, the cranberry slaw can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, making it ahead allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, then give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

→ What can I serve with these turkey sliders?

These sliders pair wonderfully with sweet potato fries, a mixed green salad, or roasted vegetables. For a more substantial meal, add a side of quinoa salad or a light soup. For casual gatherings, classic sides like potato chips or a simple cucumber and tomato salad work perfectly.

→ How do I know when the turkey patties are fully cooked?

Turkey patties are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don't have a meat thermometer, cook until the patties are firm to the touch and the juices run clear. Unlike beef, turkey should never be served pink or medium-rare.

→ Can I freeze the uncooked turkey patties?

Absolutely! Form the patties, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between each. Freeze until solid (about 2 hours), then transfer to a freezer bag or container. Frozen patties will keep for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the cooking time per side.