Turkey Sliders

Published: Jan. 17, 2025

Prep & Cook Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the Turkey Patties

• 1½ pounds (680g) ground turkey (85% lean recommended for juiciness)

• ½ medium yellow onion, finely chopped (or ¼ cup grated onion for extra moisture)

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt

• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne (optional, adjust for heat preference)

• 2 teaspoons vegetable oil (for cooking)

• 6 slices sharp Cheddar cheese (about 6 ounces), torn into 4 2.5-inch squares each

For the Buns & Serving

• 1 (12-ounce) package Hawaiian sweet rolls (12 buns), split into tops and bottoms

• Barbecue sauce (smoky or sweet variety, for spreading)

• Mayonnaise (optional, for creaminess)

• Caramelized onions (optional, prep ahead for depth; see Tips)

• Pickle chips (optional, for tangy crunch)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Patties

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Mix gently with hands or a silicone spatula—avoid overmixing to prevent toughness.

2. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions (≈56g/1/4 cup each). Use a kitchen scale for precision, or roll into a log and slice.

3. Shape each portion into a 2.5-inch-wide (≈6.5cm) patty, 1cm thick, using slightly damp hands to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook Patties with Melted Cheese

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-low heat (300°F/150°C). Add 6 patties, leaving space between them to ensure even cooking.

2. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden-brown and cooked through (internal temp ≥165°F/74°C).

3. Top each patty with 4 cheese squares. Cover the skillet and cook 1–2 minutes more until cheese melts completely. Transfer to a plate; repeat with remaining patties.

Step 3: Toast the Hawaiian Buns

1. Preheat the oven’s broiler (high heat). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Arrange bun tops and bottoms on the sheet, placing them on the rack in the top third of the oven (≈15–20cm from the broiler element).

3. Broil 1–2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds, until lightly toasted (avoid burning). If no broiler, bake at 375°F/190°C for 5–7 minutes until crisp.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

1. Spread barbecue sauce and mayonnaise (if using) on the inside of both toasted bun halves.

2. Place a cooked turkey patty on the bottom bun, then top with caramelized onions (if using) and pickle chips. Close with the top bun.

3. Serve immediately to maintain crisp buns and melted cheese.

Pro Tips

• Juicy Secret: Add ½ cup shredded medium zucchini (squeezed dry) to the turkey mixture to keep patties moist (per user comments).

• Spice Adjustment: Increase cayenne, garlic powder, or add paprika for bolder flavor.

• Caramelized Onions: For a head start, sauté 1 large onion with 1 tablespoon butter until deep brown (≈30–40 minutes on low heat).

• Substitutions: Swap Hawaiian rolls for regular mini buns or use store-bought pre-caramelized onions.

User Reviews

• “Moist & Easy”: “We make turkey burgers often. Adding shredded zucchini keeps patties juicy. Baked in the oven at 375°F for 20 mins—perfect!”

• “Spice Upgrade”: “Double the spice (garlic, pepper, cayenne) for more heat. CostCo rolls work too, and caramelized onions elevate it.”

• “Family Favorite”: “Added grated onion and zucchini—moist, flavorful, and a hit with kids. Regular buns work if mini are unavailable!”

• “Weeknight Win”: “Generous with BBQ sauce and spicy cheese. Pickles on top make it tangy. Quick and delicious for busy evenings.”

Enjoy these bite-sized turkey burgers—ideal for game days, gatherings, or casual weeknight meals! 🥪