Cranberry Turkey Sliders: The Ultimate Holiday Leftover Recipe

Cranberry Turkey Sliders: the ultimate post-Thanksgiving (or any-time-of-year!) comfort food you didn’t know you needed! Are you staring down a mountain of leftover turkey, wondering how to transform it into something exciting and new? Forget those same old turkey sandwiches! These mini masterpieces are bursting with flavor and are incredibly easy to assemble, making them perfect for a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or even a party appetizer.

The combination of turkey and cranberry sauce is a classic American pairing, deeply rooted in the traditions of Thanksgiving. While the exact origins are debated, cranberries have been a part of the North American diet for centuries, and their tartness perfectly complements the richness of poultry. This pairing has evolved over time, finding its way into countless dishes, and these Cranberry Turkey Sliders are a delicious modern interpretation.

What makes these sliders so irresistible? It’s the delightful contrast of textures and tastes. The soft, slightly sweet slider buns cradle tender, savory turkey, while the tangy cranberry sauce adds a burst of fruity sweetness. A smear of creamy brie or a dollop of herbed cream cheese elevates the experience even further. People adore these sliders because they are quick, satisfying, and offer a sophisticated twist on familiar flavors. Plus, they’re incredibly customizable – add your favorite greens, a slice of cheese, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to make them your own! Get ready to transform your leftovers into a culinary triumph with these easy and delicious sliders!

Ingredients:

• For the Turkey:
• 1.5 lbs ground turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, for cooking
• For the Cranberry Sauce:
• 12 oz fresh cranberries
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• For the Sliders:
• 12 slider buns
• 4 oz brie cheese, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• Fresh arugula or baby spinach, for topping

Preparing the Cranberry Sauce:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, orange juice, water, orange zest, and ground cinnamon. Give everything a good stir to ensure the sugar is evenly distributed.
2. Cook the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and continue to cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. I like mine a little chunky, but you can cook it longer for a smoother sauce.
3. Cool and Thicken: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cranberry sauce cool completely. As it cools, it will continue to thicken. You can transfer it to a jar or container and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the sliders. This can be made a day or two in advance!

Making the Turkey Sliders:

1. Combine Turkey Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, beaten egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough sliders. I like to use my hands to gently incorporate everything.
2. Form the Sliders: Divide the turkey mixture into 12 equal portions. Gently form each portion into a small slider patty, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Make sure they are relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly.
3. Cook the Sliders: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the slider patties in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in batches. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the sliders are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are fully cooked.
4. Rest the Sliders: Once cooked, remove the sliders from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease. Let them rest for a few minutes before assembling the sliders. This helps them retain their juices.

Assembling the Cranberry Turkey Sliders:

1. Prepare the Buns: Slice the slider buns in half. You can lightly toast them if you prefer, but it’s not necessary. I sometimes like to brush them with a little melted butter and toast them in the oven for a few minutes for extra flavor.
2. Spread the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard to create a simple aioli. Spread a thin layer of this mixture on the bottom half of each slider bun.
3. Add the Turkey: Place a cooked turkey slider patty on top of the aioli-covered bottom bun.
4. Add the Brie: Top each turkey slider with a slice of brie cheese. The warmth of the slider will gently melt the cheese, creating a delicious and gooey layer.
5. Spoon on the Cranberry Sauce: Spoon a generous amount of the cranberry sauce over the brie cheese. Don’t be shy! The cranberry sauce is what really makes these sliders special.
6. Add Greens: Add a small handful of fresh arugula or baby spinach on top of the cranberry sauce. This adds a nice peppery bite and a touch of freshness to balance the richness of the other ingredients.
7. Top with the Bun: Place the top half of the slider bun on top of the arugula or spinach.
8. Serve Immediately: Serve the cranberry turkey sliders immediately while they are still warm and the brie cheese is melted. These are best enjoyed fresh!

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it Up: For a spicier cranberry sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the saucepan while cooking.
• Add Nuts: Toast some chopped pecans or walnuts and add them to the cranberry sauce for extra texture and flavor.
• Cheese Variations: If you’re not a fan of brie, you can substitute it with other cheeses like Swiss, provolone, or even a sharp cheddar.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the cranberry sauce and the turkey slider patties ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the sliders just before serving.
• Use Leftover Turkey: These sliders are a great way to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey! Simply shred the turkey and use it instead of the ground turkey patties.
• Slider Bun Options: Experiment with different types of slider buns, such as Hawaiian rolls or pretzel buns, for a unique twist.
• Add Caramelized Onions: Caramelized onions would add a lovely sweetness and depth of flavor to these sliders. Sauté sliced onions in butter over low heat until they are golden brown and caramelized, then add them to the sliders along with the other toppings.
• Garlic Aioli: For a more intense garlic flavor, add an extra clove of minced garlic to the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard mixture.
• Herb Infused Turkey: To enhance the flavor of the turkey sliders, try adding some fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to the turkey mixture. Finely chop the herbs and mix them in with the other ingredients.
• Bacon Addition: Crispy bacon crumbles would be a fantastic addition to these sliders, adding a smoky and salty element that complements the other flavors perfectly.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve these cranberry turkey sliders as an appetizer at your next party or gathering.
• They also make a great light lunch or dinner.
• Pair them with a side of sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.
• For a festive touch, serve them with a glass of sparkling cider or cranberry juice.

Storage Instructions:

• Store leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Cooked turkey sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.
• It’s best to assemble the sliders just before serving to prevent the buns from getting soggy.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per slider):

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fat: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g

Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Turkey Sliders! I hope you love them as much as I do. They’re the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and tangy, and they’re sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make them your own!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are so much more than just a post-Thanksgiving leftover solution; they’re a flavor explosion waiting to happen. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it perfectly balances sweet, savory, and tangy notes in a way that’s both comforting and exciting. The juicy turkey, the tart cranberry sauce, the creamy brie, and the crisp arugula all come together to create a slider experience that’s simply unforgettable.

But the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and satisfying. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey from any holiday feast, minimizing waste and maximizing deliciousness.

Beyond the basic recipe, there are so many ways to customize these sliders to your liking. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a thin slice of apple or pear for an extra layer of sweetness and texture. A sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts would also add a delightful crunch. For those who prefer a bit of heat, a drizzle of sriracha mayo or a pinch of red pepper flakes can kick things up a notch.

Serving suggestions are endless! These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are perfect as a quick and easy lunch, a crowd-pleasing appetizer for parties, or even a light dinner. Pair them with a side of sweet potato fries, a simple green salad, or a bowl of creamy tomato soup for a complete and satisfying meal. They’re also fantastic for game day gatherings – imagine serving a platter of these during the next big football game! Your guests will be raving about them.

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can easily substitute the turkey with grilled halloumi cheese or a thick slice of roasted butternut squash. The cranberry sauce and brie will still provide plenty of flavor and richness. You could also try using different types of bread, such as brioche buns or pretzel rolls, to add a unique twist.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make these sliders your own! That’s the beauty of cooking – it’s all about finding what you love and creating something delicious that reflects your personal taste.

I’m so confident that you’ll love these Cranberry Turkey Sliders that I urge you to give them a try. Seriously, you won’t regret it! They’re the perfect combination of flavors and textures, and they’re so easy to make.

Once you’ve made them, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you serve them with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and comments on social media using #CranberryTurkeySliders or tag me in your posts. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Your insights will not only help me improve the recipe but also inspire other home cooks to try it out. Let’s spread the slider love!

So, get in the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and prepare to be amazed by the deliciousness of these Cranberry Turkey Sliders. Happy cooking!

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