Ready to spice up your game day or party menu? Introducing the Tasty Turkey Burger Sliders. This quick 30-minute meal uses lean ground turkey, savory spices, and soft brioche or Hawaiian sweet rolls. It’s a healthier twist on classic sliders that’s sure to delight.
So, what’s so special about these turkey burger sliders? And why choose ground turkey over beef? Find out in this article. We’ll show you the benefits and share tips for making the best mini turkey burgers for your next event.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Turkey Burger Sliders
Imagine small burgers with a twist – turkey instead of beef. These ground turkey burgers, or turkey burger sliders, are a healthier choice. They’re great for game days or family dinners. Their juicy texture and many toppings will wow your guests and satisfy you.
What Makes These Sliders Special
Ground turkey makes these sliders special. It’s leaner and more nutritious than beef. Plus, their small size is perfect for tailgating food or appetizers. With endless topping options, they’re a hit with everyone.
Benefits of Using Ground Turkey
Ground turkey is healthier than ground beef because it’s lower in saturated fat. It has more good fats, which are good for your heart. Turkey burgers are also lower in fat and calories, making them a great diet choice.
Perfect Occasions for Serving
- Game day celebrations and tailgating events
- Casual family dinners or backyard gatherings
- Appetizer platters for parties and social events
- Meal prep and quick weeknight meals
These ground turkey burgers are perfect for any occasion. They’re versatile and loved by all. They’re great for game days or cozy family dinners.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Turkey Burger Sliders
Making delicious turkey burger sliders starts with picking the right ingredients. You need lean ground turkey, fresh seasonings, and soft buns. These ingredients will give you the perfect flavor and texture.
For the patties, choose a ground turkey that’s 90-93% lean. This keeps the burgers moist and juicy. You’ll also need:
- Plain breadcrumbs to help bind the patties
- Spices like paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder for robust flavor
- Sea salt and black pepper to season
To finish the sliders, you’ll want:
- Mini burger buns, preferably brioche-style or Hawaiian sweet rolls
- Sliced Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
- Barbecue sauce for added tanginess
- Thinly sliced red onion for a crunchy, pungent contrast
Optional ingredients can make your sliders even better. Consider adding a beaten egg for moisture, soy sauce or coconut aminos for umami, fresh parsley for herbaceous notes, and guacamole for a creamy kick.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Turkey | 1 pound |
| Plain Breadcrumbs | ¼ cup |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Chili Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Sea Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Mini Burger Buns | 12 (brioche or Hawaiian sweet rolls) |
| Monterey Jack or Cheddar Cheese | 12 slices |
| Barbecue Sauce | ¼ cup |
| Red Onion | 1, thinly sliced |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make perfect turkey burger sliders for any event.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the perfect turkey burger sliders, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Start with two sturdy baking sheets, lined with parchment paper for easy clean-up. A medium-sized mixing bowl is handy for mixing the ingredients for your slider patties.
Basic Kitchen Equipment
- 2 baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Medium mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Meat thermometer
Optional Helpful Tools
Although optional, certain tools can simplify the process. Use a pastry brush to lightly coat the buns with melted butter. This adds extra flavor and crispiness.
Baking Sheets and Measurements
For shaping the turkey patties, a 9×13 inch baking pan or a quarter sheet pan is good. Accurate measurements are key for the perfect size and flavor balance.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground turkey | 2 lbs |
| Fat ratio in ground turkey | At least 93/7 |
| Total servings | 8 burgers |
| Cooking time | 20 minutes |
| Minimum internal temperature | 165 degrees F |
| Recommended refrigeration time for leftovers | 3-4 days |
| Freezing duration | 3-4 months |
| Calories per serving | 149 kcal |
Preparing the Perfect Turkey Patty Mixture
Making the perfect turkey burger mixture is key to great turkey burger sliders. Start by mixing 1.5 lbs of ground turkey in a bowl. Add a mix of seasonings to give your turkey burgers a rich taste.
Start with 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder. Add 1 1/2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. Season with 3/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper for a balanced flavor.
Add 1/3 cup of fresh breadcrumbs and 1 egg for texture and binding. Mix the turkey burger mixture gently until all ingredients are well combined. Be careful not to overmix.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Turkey | 1.5 lbs |
| Garlic Powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Onion Powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Ketchup | 1 1/2 tbsp |
| Dijon Mustard | 1 tbsp |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 3/4 tsp |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Breadcrumbs | 1/3 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
Now that your turkey burger mixture is ready, shape the patties. For the perfect sliders, make them 3 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
Getting ready to bake turkey burger sliders is easy and fun. First, heat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Place the seasoned turkey patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space for even cooking.
Put the turkey sliders in the oven for 10-12 minutes. If your patties are bigger, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. Be sure to verify the turkey’s internal temperature using a meat thermometer. It needs to reach at least 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Temperature and Timing Guidelines
- Oven Temperature: 425°F (218°C) for smaller patties, 350°F (175°C) for larger patties
- Baking Time: 10-12 minutes for smaller patties, 15 minutes for larger patties
- Internal Temperature: 165°F (74°C) for fully cooked turkey burgers
Bun Toasting Techniques
While the turkey patties are cooking, toast the slider buns. Put the buns on a baking sheet and bake for the last 5 minutes. This makes the buns crispy and warm, adding to the sliders’ appeal.
Don’t forget to drain any extra liquid from the turkey burgers before you assemble your sliders. This keeps the buns from getting soggy and makes each bite better.
Best Toppings and Condiments for Turkey Sliders
Creating the perfect turkey burger sliders is all about finding the right toppings and condiments. The turkey is the main attraction, but the right extras can make your sliders even better. They add flavor and texture that takes your sliders to the next level.
Start with classic toppings like Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese for a creamy touch. A drizzle of barbecue sauce or a spread of tangy pickles adds sweetness and tanginess. Thinly sliced red onion and juicy tomato slices add a fresh crunch.
Want to try something new? Add a dollop of guacamole for a creamy avocado kick or ranch dressing for a cool contrast. Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or mozzarella to find your favorite.
For more texture and flavor, add crisp lettuce leaves or a slice of crunchy bacon. The possibilities are endless for creating the ultimate turkey burger slider.
| Topping/Condiment | Flavor Profile | Recommended Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Monterey Jack or Cheddar Cheese | Creamy, melty | 1-2 thin slices per slider |
| Barbecue Sauce | Sweet, tangy | 1-2 tbsp per slider |
| Pickles | Tangy, crunchy | 2-3 thin slices per slider |
| Red Onion | Crisp, pungent | 2-3 thin slices per slider |
| Tomato Slices | Juicy, fresh | 1-2 thin slices per slider |
| Guacamole | Creamy, avocado-based | 1-2 tbsp per slider |
| Ranch Dressing | Cool, creamy | 1-2 tbsp per slider |
| Provolone or Mozzarella Cheese | Melty, mild | 1-2 thin slices per slider |
| Lettuce Leaves | Crisp, fresh | 1-2 leaves per slider |
| Bacon Slices | Savory, crunchy | 1/2 to 1 slice per slider |
The beauty of turkey burger sliders is in the customization. Try different toppings and condiments to find your favorite flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
When serving your turkey burger sliders, think about adding some tasty sides. Sweet potato fries, onion rings, or potato chips are great choices. For a healthier option, try a mixed green salad or crisp vegetable sticks.
Popular Side Options
- Sweet Potato Fries (easy, 15 minutes)
- Coleslaw (medium, 15 minutes)
- Caprese Skewers (easy, 10 minutes)
- Avocado Corn Salad (easy, 15 minutes)
- Parmesan Garlic Fries (medium, 30 minutes)
- Mediterranean Couscous (medium, 20 minutes)
- Grilled Zucchini (easy, 15 minutes)
- Spinach Artichoke Dip (medium, 30 minutes)
- Mango Salsa (easy, 15 minutes)
- Baked Beans (medium, 1 hour)
- Roasted Beet Salad (medium, 45 minutes)
- Pesto Pasta Salad (medium, 25 minutes)
Presentation Tips
Arrange your turkey burger sliders on a platter or individual plates. Use cocktail picks to keep them together and add a nice touch. Offer different sauces and condiments on the side, so guests can make their sliders just right.
By choosing and presenting your slider sides well, you’ll make your meal look and taste great. Enjoy the perfect mix of juicy turkey burgers and tasty sides.
Storage and Reheating Tips
After enjoying your turkey burger sliders, it’s key to know how to store and reheat leftovers. With a few easy tips, you can enjoy these tasty bites for days.
Place leftovers in a sealed container and refrigerate them. They last up to 3 days. Keep patties and buns apart to avoid soggy buns.
For reheating, you have a few options. For the best taste, reassemble sliders with fresh buns. Heat patties in the microwave at 80% power for 1-2 minutes. Or, wrap the whole slider in foil and heat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.
| Preparation Time | Shelf Life | Freezing Time | Reheating Time | Nutritional Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 3-5 days in the fridge | Up to 3 months in the freezer | 10-15 minutes in the oven at 350°F | Calories: 448kcal, Carbohydrates: 34g, Protein: 34g, Fat: 20g, Saturated Fat: 11g, Cholesterol: 104mg, Sodium: 874mg, Vitamin A: 482IU, Calcium: 281mg |
By using these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your turkey sliders long after making them. Whether storing for a quick meal or reheating for a party, these tips keep your turkey burger bites fresh and tasty.
Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Options
Preparing meal-prep sliders or make-ahead turkey burgers saves time. It ensures your meals are always fresh and delicious. This way, you can enjoy tasty turkey burgers on busy weeknights or at gatherings.
Begin by making the turkey patty mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Mix the ingredients, shape the patties, and wrap them in parchment paper. This makes cooking later a breeze. Also, pre-slice your toppings and store them in separate containers for easy assembly.
For big events or parties, bake the turkey patties ahead of time. This way, you can quickly reheat and assemble the meal prep sliders just before serving. It saves time and effort, yet still offers a homemade taste everyone will enjoy.
| Meal Prep Tip | Time Saved | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Make turkey patty mixture in advance | 5-10 minutes | Up to 24 hours in the refrigerator |
| Pre-slice toppings | 3-5 minutes | 2-3 days in the refrigerator |
| Bake turkey patties ahead of time | 10-15 minutes | 3-4 days in the refrigerator or 2-3 months in the freezer |
Using make-ahead and meal prep techniques makes preparing turkey burger sliders quick and easy. You get to enjoy a flavorful meal without losing quality or taste. Plan and enjoy the benefits of a well-organized kitchen.
Conclusion
Turkey burger sliders are a tasty, healthier choice compared to beef sliders. They are easy to make and great for many events, like family dinners or parties. You can mix and match ingredients to create your perfect slider.
Are you looking for a simple turkey slider recipe or something quick for game day? These mini burgers will impress everyone. Experiment with various toppings and sides to discover what you like best. With a bit of effort, you’ll have delicious turkey sliders that everyone will love.
Why not try making turkey burger sliders? They’re delicious and nutritious. These mini burgers are easy to make and offer endless possibilities. Let your taste buds decide!
FAQ
What makes turkey burger sliders special?
Turkey burger sliders are special because they are juicy and versatile. They are quick to make and offer a healthier choice. Ground turkey is a lean option and rich in protein.
What are the benefits of using ground turkey for sliders?
Ground turkey is leaner than beef, making it a healthier option. It’s also high in protein.
When are turkey burger sliders perfect to serve?
Serve turkey burger sliders at game days, parties, or casual dinners. They’re also great as appetizers.
What are the key ingredients for turkey burger sliders?
You’ll need ground turkey, breadcrumbs, and spices. Mini burger buns, cheese, and barbecue sauce are also key. Optional items include egg, soy sauce, parsley, and guacamole.
What kitchen tools and equipment are needed?
You’ll need two baking sheets, parchment paper, and a medium bowl. Measuring cups, spoons, a spatula, and a meat thermometer are essential. A pastry brush is optional for buns.
How do you prepare the perfect turkey patty mixture?
Mix ground turkey with breadcrumbs, spices, and salt in a bowl. Use your hands to mix well. Add minced garlic, parsley, and Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
What are the temperature and timing guidelines for baking turkey sliders?
Bake turkey patties at 425°F (218°C) for 10-12 minutes. Use a thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
What are some popular toppings and condiments for turkey sliders?
Top sliders with cheese, barbecue sauce, and red onion. Add tomato slices, pickles, guacamole, ranch dressing, or homemade sauce.
What are some good side dish options for serving turkey sliders?
Serve with sweet potato fries, onion rings, or chips. For a healthier option, try a mixed green salad or vegetable sticks.
How do you store and reheat leftover turkey sliders?
Place leftovers in a tightly sealed container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
What are some make-ahead and meal-prep options for turkey sliders?
You can prepare the patty mixture up to a day ahead of time. Refrigerate and shape patties later. Store toppings separately for easy assembly.