If you’re craving a fresh spin on classic sliders that burst with bright flavors and satisfying textures, you’re going to love this Turkey Sliders with Cranberry Slaw Recipe. These mini sandwiches combine lean, juicy turkey patties with a vibrant, tangy cranberry slaw that adds just the right amount of crunch and sweetness. Perfectly balanced and easy to assemble, this recipe brings a delightful mix of savory and fresh that makes every bite an absolute joy. Whether it’s a casual lunch, a fun dinner, or a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, these turkey sliders will quickly become a personal favorite in your recipe collection.

Turkey Sliders with Cranberry Slaw Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s truly wonderful about the Turkey Sliders with Cranberry Slaw Recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are. Each component plays a unique role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make these sliders pop with deliciousness.

1 lb (450 g) ground turkey, preferably 93% lean: Lean and juicy, this forms the hearty base of your sliders without being greasy.
1 small shallot, finely minced: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth to the turkey patties.
1 garlic clove, minced: Brings a warm, savory punch that complements the turkey perfectly.
1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Offers a slight tang that brightens the meat mixture.
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Enhances umami and complexity, making the patties irresistibly flavorful.
½ tsp salt: Seasoning to enhance all the natural flavors in the patties and slaw.
¼ tsp ground black pepper: Provides a mild kick and balances the seasoning.
1 tbsp olive oil, for cooking: Keeps the patties moist and helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
1 cup finely shredded green cabbage: Adds a crisp, fresh crunch with a mild flavor for the slaw.
½ cup finely shredded red cabbage: Brightens the slaw with a pop of beautiful color and subtle earthiness.
½ cup fresh cranberries, finely chopped: The star ingredient in the slaw, adding tart sweetness and a festive flair.
1 small carrot, grated: Infuses natural sweetness and extra crunch to the slaw blend.
2 tbsp mayonnaise: Creates a creamy, tangy base that binds the slaw ingredients together.
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Brings zingy acidity to balance the creaminess and sweetness perfectly.
1 tsp honey: Adds a gentle touch of natural sweetness to round out the slaw dressing.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate every bite of the slaw.
6 slider buns: Soft yet sturdy, these little buns hold all the goodies together with flair.
Butter or oil for toasting buns: Adds a lovely golden crust and extra flavor to the buns.
Baby arugula or lettuce leaves (optional): Provides a fresh, peppery crunch that’s delightful in each bite.

How to Make Turkey Sliders with Cranberry Slaw Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Slaw

Begin by mixing the green and red cabbage with the finely chopped cranberries and grated carrot in a large bowl. This colorful combination not only looks stunning but also brings a perfect blend of crunch and tartness. Then, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper in a separate small bowl. Pour this creamy but tangy dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss everything gently to coat all the ingredients. Pop the slaw into the refrigerator to chill, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you move on to the next step.

Step 2: Mix and Shape the Turkey Patties

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey with the minced shallot and garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. This mixture is the key to a juicy, flavorful slider patty with just the right amount of seasoning and zing. Once everything is well incorporated, divide the mix into six equal portions and shape them into mini patties, slightly wider than your slider buns so they’re the perfect size once cooked.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Patties

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, which ensures your patties get a nice, golden crust without sticking. Place the patties into the pan and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, turning carefully so they stay intact. You’ll know they’re done when they’ve cooked through completely and sport a beautiful brown sear, sealing in all that juicy turkey goodness.

Step 4: Toast the Slider Buns

While the patties are finishing up, lightly butter or brush oil onto your slider buns. Toast them in a dry skillet or under the broiler just until golden and crisp on the cut sides. This simple step adds an irresistible crunch and buttery flavor that makes every bite more satisfying.

Step 5: Assemble the Sliders

Build your sliders starting with the toasted bottom bun, place a warm turkey patty on top, then crown it with a generous spoonful of the chilled cranberry slaw. For an extra fresh touch, add a leaf or two of baby arugula or lettuce if you like. Top it all off with the bun’s crown, and you’ve created a vibrant handheld meal that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

How to Serve Turkey Sliders with Cranberry Slaw Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper over the cranberry slaw or a few microgreens add pretty finishing touches and subtle flavor enhancements. Consider serving with a few thin pickle slices or a light drizzle of balsamic glaze on the side for those who love a bit more acidity.

Side Dishes

These turkey sliders shine alongside simple, fresh sides like sweet potato fries, a crisp garden salad, or even classic kettle-cooked chips for crunch. For something a bit more adventurous, roasted Brussels sprouts or a warm quinoa salad bring wonderful complementary textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the sliders on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment paper for an inviting, casual look. You could also serve each slider open-faced on a small plate to showcase the vibrant cranberry slaw, making it a perfect starter or buffet item. Mini cocktail picks or pretty toothpicks can help keep them together while adding a charming touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover turkey sliders can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store the patties separately from the buns and cranberry slaw when possible to maintain the best texture and freshness.

Freezing

The turkey patties freeze well if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in a freezer bag. Freeze them flat and labeled for up to 3 months. It’s best to freeze the slaw and buns fresh, as slaw can get watery after freezing and buns may lose their texture.

Reheating

To reheat frozen or refrigerated patties, warm them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through, which helps retain moisture. Toast the buns fresh in the oven or on a pan, and serve the slaw chilled for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will work similarly in this Turkey Sliders with Cranberry Slaw Recipe. Just be sure to season it well and cook thoroughly to maintain flavor and juiciness.

How do I make the cranberry slaw less tart?

If the cranberries feel too tart, adding a touch more honey to the slaw dressing will balance the flavors beautifully. Alternatively, you can lightly sauté the chopped cranberries before mixing them in to mellow their tartness.

Can I prepare the sliders for a party platter?

Definitely! These sliders are perfect for parties and can be made in advance. Keep the patties warm and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and feel professional without any fuss.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The slider patties and slaw are naturally gluten-free, but double-check your slider buns to ensure they meet gluten-free requirements. Alternatively, serve on lettuce wraps or gluten-free buns for a safe, delicious option.

How can I make these sliders spicy?

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the turkey mix, or spice up the cranberry slaw dressing with a touch of hot sauce or freshly grated jalapeño for an exciting twist.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the way the savory, tender turkey patties and the fresh, zesty cranberry slaw come together in this Turkey Sliders with Cranberry Slaw Recipe. It’s a recipe that’s approachable, vibrant, and guaranteed to bring smiles around the table. Give it a try soon—you might just find yourself reaching for these sliders again and again as a go-to for a delicious and memorable meal.