Turkey Sliders Recipe – Easy, Juicy, and Perfect for Parties

Small in size, big on flavor Turkey Sliders are the ultimate answer to quick dinners, game-day snacks, and holiday appetizers. These bite-sized sandwiches pack all the comforting flavors of a classic turkey meal, but with a fun and modern twist. Picture this: tender ground turkey patties seasoned to perfection, topped with melty cheese, and nestled between buttery toasted slider buns. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just making a casual weeknight dinner feel special, these sliders deliver every time.

What makes turkey sliders so great? For starters, they’re budget-friendly, incredibly versatile, and super easy to make in batches. You can prep them ahead, customize with different cheeses or sauces, and even bake them as a sheet-pan-style dish. Fun fact sliders were originally popularized by American diners and fast-food joints in the early 20th century, but their modern mini-sized makeover has made them a favorite for potlucks and parties. Once you try these juicy turkey sliders, they’ll become a go-to in your recipe rotation!

What is Turkey Sliders?

Turkey Sliders are mini sandwiches made with ground turkey patties or sliced roasted turkey, layered on small buns or rolls usually Hawaiian or brioche for a juicy, savory bite-sized meal. They’re kind of like burgers, but cuter and easier to eat in two bites. Why are they called sliders? Because they’re so small and buttery, they “slide” right down! Whether served with melted cheese, cranberry sauce, or a zesty aioli, these sliders are the perfect way to win over a crowd. After all, the way to anyone’s heart is through a warm, cheesy roll filled with tender turkey. Ready to stack ’em high?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to love about this easy turkey sliders recipe:

  • Juicy and flavorful – Ground turkey is seasoned with herbs, garlic, and a touch of onion for maximum flavor.
  • Perfect for parties or weeknights – Bake a tray of sliders in under 30 minutes and feed a hungry group without stress.
  • Customizable toppings – Add cranberry sauce, spicy mayo, pickles, or caramelized onions to change it up.
  • Freezer-friendly – Make extra and freeze for a quick reheat lunch or dinner.
  • Kid-friendly and adult-approved – Mini sandwiches are fun for kids and satisfying for adults!

From tailgates to holiday spreads, these turkey sliders are a guaranteed hit and they reheat beautifully, too.

How to Make Turkey Sliders

Quick Overview

This dish is a total breeze. Just mix your turkey with seasonings, form mini patties, sear or bake them, then assemble the sliders with cheese and your favorite toppings. Finish by brushing the tops with butter and baking to golden perfection. That’s it—restaurant-style sliders, right at home.

Key Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPreparation
Ground turkey1 lbLean (93/7) recommended
Garlic powder1 tspMixed into the turkey
Onion powder1 tspOptional, adds extra flavor
Salt and pepperTo tasteFor seasoning
Slider buns12Hawaiian, brioche, or dinner rolls
Sliced cheese6 slicesSwiss, cheddar, provolone, halved
Butter3 tbspMelted, for brushing buns
Dijon mustard (optional)2 tbspFor flavor kick
Mayonnaise (optional)2 tbspSpread inside buns
Cranberry sauce (optional)As desiredFor festive sweetness
Turkey Sliders ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix and Shape the Turkey Patties

In a large bowl, combine ground turkey with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined don’t overwork it or the patties may get tough. Form into 12 equal mini patties slightly larger than your slider buns (they’ll shrink while cooking).

Cook the Patties

Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Cook patties in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F). Set aside on a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

Prep the Buns

Slice the slider buns in half horizontally (keeping the bottoms connected if baking as a tray bake). Spread the cut sides with mayo, Dijon mustard, or cranberry sauce whatever flavor profile you’re going for.

Assemble the Sliders

Place cooked turkey patties on the bottom half of the buns. Top each with half a slice of cheese. Add any extra toppings like pickles or arugula. Place the top buns over each slider.

Bake to Melt and Toast

Brush the tops with melted butter (add a sprinkle of garlic or herbs for extra flavor). Place the sliders in a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and buns are golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice and serve hot! Pair with chips, a light salad, or one of the delicious sides below.

What to Serve With Turkey Sliders

Turkey sliders are comforting and savory, so pairing them with crisp, creamy, or slightly sweet sides will take your meal to the next level. Here are five perfect pairings from your blog:

Cowboy Pasta Salad – Creamy, tangy, and loaded with texture, this hearty salad balances the richness of the sliders and is perfect for potlucks or BBQ-style meals.

Pumpkin Banana Bread – Slightly sweet and moist, this bread adds a cozy, fall-inspired touch to your turkey sandwich spread.

Brussels Cabbage Recipe – Roasted and caramelized, this veggie side adds a savory crunch and earthy flavor that works beautifully with juicy turkey patties.

Sweet Potato Pancakes – A unique and satisfying side that brings subtle sweetness and soft texture perfect with a spicy aioli on your sliders.

Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls – Crispy, cheesy, and loaded with bold flavor, these are a fun side or appetizer that complements turkey sliders for a full party platter.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Turkey Sliders

  1. Don’t Overmix the Turkey – Gentle mixing keeps the patties tender and juicy.
  2. Make Them Uniform – Equal-sized patties cook evenly and fit neatly into buns.
  3. Toast the Buns – Light toasting keeps them from getting soggy and adds flavor.
  4. Use a Melty Cheese – Provolone, cheddar, and Swiss melt beautifully and balance turkey’s mild flavor.
  5. Add Moisture with Condiments – Turkey is lean, so spreads like mayo or cranberry sauce help keep everything juicy.
  6. Sheet Pan Shortcut – Want it fast? Assemble all sliders in a baking dish and heat in the oven to serve a crowd in one go.
  7. Prep Ahead – Cook the patties ahead of time and assemble right before baking. Great for meal prep or parties.
Turkey Sliders

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration:
Store fully assembled sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For best results, store patties and buns separately to maintain texture.

Freezing:
Wrap cooked turkey patties individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

  • Oven: Wrap sliders in foil and reheat at 350°F for 10–12 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat patties on their own for 30–60 seconds, then reassemble.
  • Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispness.

FAQs About Turkey Sliders

What goes well with turkey sliders?

Turkey sliders pair well with sides like pasta salad, sweet potato fries, roasted vegetables, or even fruit-based dishes. Creamy dips and crisp salads also complement the mild turkey flavor.

What kind of cheese goes with turkey?

Mild, melty cheeses work best. Provolone, Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella are all great options. For extra kick, try pepper jack or a slice of brie for a gourmet touch.

How to keep sliders from getting soggy on the bottom?

Toast the buns slightly before assembling and avoid overloading with sauces. You can also add a lettuce leaf or cheese between the patty and bun to act as a moisture barrier.

How many sliders per person?

Plan for 2–3 sliders per adult, depending on portion size and sides. For kids or lighter meals, 1–2 sliders may be enough.

Classic sides like cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, green beans, or sweet potatoes are popular. For sliders, think lighter like pasta salad, coleslaw, or roasted veggies.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or keeping it cozy at home, these Turkey Sliders are flavorful, fuss-free, and totally addictive. Add them to your next party menu or weeknight dinner lineup they’re sure to become a household favorite.

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Turkey Sliders

Turkey Sliders Recipe


  • Author: Nicole
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 sliders 1x

Description

These Turkey Sliders are juicy, cheesy, and full of flavor—perfect for parties, game days, or an easy weeknight dinner. Baked on soft rolls with melted cheese and a buttery, seasoned topping, they’re irresistible bite-sized sandwiches everyone will love!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Sliders:

  • 1 lb ground turkey

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

  • 12 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls

  • 6 slices cheddar or provolone cheese, halved

For the Topping:

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tsp poppy seeds

  • 1/2 tsp dried minced onion

Optional Toppings:

  • Lettuce

  • Tomato slices

  • Pickles

  • Mayo or your favorite sauce


Instructions

1 Cook the Turkey Patties
In a bowl, mix ground turkey with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper
Form into 12 small patties to match the size of your slider buns
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat
Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side or until fully cooked through

2 Prepare the Buns
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Slice slider buns in half and place the bottom halves in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish

3 Assemble the Sliders
Place one turkey patty on each bun bottom
Top with cheese slices and any additional toppings if using
Add the top half of the buns

4 Make the Butter Topping
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, and minced onion
Brush the mixture over the tops of the buns

5 Bake and Serve
Cover with foil and bake for 10 minutes
Uncover and bake for another 5-7 minutes until the tops are golden brown
Serve warm

Notes

Use ground turkey breast for a leaner option or add grated onion to the patties for extra moisture

Make ahead and reheat just before serving

Customize with your favorite cheeses and toppings

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Turkey Sliders, Baked Turkey Sliders, Easy Slider Recipe, Ground Turkey Sandwiches

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