Turkey Slider Recipe – Friendsgiving Food Ideas

Servings: 24 Total Time: 30 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

Before diving into the delightful world of turkey sliders, let’s think about what goes well with them. After all, every great dish deserves a fabulous accompaniment! When I prepare turkey sliders, I love to pair them with crispy sweet potato fries. 

The sweetness of the fries balances the savory turkey perfectly. Another classic option? A vibrant coleslaw. It adds a refreshing crunch that complements the sliders’ texture.

Looking to keep things light? Serve the sliders with a side salad, perhaps a crisp Caesar or a tangy mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette. And let’s not forget about beverages; iced tea or a light beer can refresh your palate and enhance the meal.

Turkey Slider Recipe

What Is a Turkey Slider?

Nestled within the broad umbrella of sliders, turkey sliders are simply small sandwiches made primarily from ground turkey or deli turkey slices. They’re about the size of your palm, making them bite-sized and perfect for gatherings. Sliders offer versatility, allowing you to pair them with diverse toppings and sauces, and create variations that suit your taste buds.

Turkey sliders are a lighter alternative to traditional beef sliders, combining ease of preparation with a flavor that delights. They’re often enhanced with cheese, sauces, and sometimes veggies, allowing for personalization. Ready to learn why this recipe works like a charm?

Why This Recipe Works

Now, let me assure you, my quest to nail down the perfect turkey slider did not happen overnight. Numerous trials led me where I am today—a proud purveyor of delicious turkey sliders. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

  • Balanced Flavors: The combination of tangy mustard and a drizzle of honey creates a delightful balance between sweet and savory.
  • Quality Ingredients: Using fresh turkey and creamy Havarti cheese enhances the flavor profile, making each bite a treat.
  • Simplicity: With just a few ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, this dish is accessible to anyone in the kitchen.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare many ingredients in advance, meaning less stress during your event.

What You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Let’s gather our ingredients! Having everything on hand makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable. For this turkey slider recipe, you will need:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 24 slices of deli-style turkey breast
  • 1 Tablespoon honey
  • 12 slices of creamy Havarti cheese, thinly sliced
  • A pinch of smoked paprika
  • ½ Tablespoon Dijon mustard or whole grain mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried onion flakes
  • 1½ teaspoons poppy seeds
  • ½ Tablespoon soy sauce
  • 24 sweet dinner rolls or slider buns

With these ingredients lined up, we’re ready to make our sliders! A brief introduction on how we’ll tackle this dish.

Turkey Slider Copycat Recipe

How to Make Turkey Sliders

Creating these turkey sliders is straightforward, but it helps to break it down into bite-sized steps. Trust me; your family and friends will be singing your praises by the end. Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the nitty-gritty of step-by-step instructions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Before you can bake those delightful sliders, fire up your oven to 350°F (175°C). This simple action creates the perfect environment for those buns to turn golden and crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grab a large baking dish and arrange the sweet dinner rolls in it. Keep them in one piece, as you will slice them later. This is the perfect time to line the dish with parchment paper for easy clean-up later.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, dried onion flakes, smoked paprika, and poppy seeds. This mixture will serve as both a dressing and a glaze. Whisk it until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

Slice the buns in half horizontally. Take the bottom half and layer it with turkey slices. Follow this by placing a slice of the creamy Havarti on each turkey layer. 

This is where the magic happens; the cheese will melt beautifully as the sliders bake.

Step 5: Drizzle the Sauce

Once your sliders are layered, pour the prepared butter sauce generously over the assembled sliders. Ensure each slider gets a good coating to enhance flavor and texture.

Step 6: Bake

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, then remove the foil and let them bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. We want the sliders to be warm and the cheese melted, with the tops golden brown.

Step 7: Serve!

Once off the oven, allow the sliders to cool slightly before cutting. Serve them warm and watch your guests dig in!

Tips for Perfect Turkey Sliders

Here are some handy tips I’ve learned along the way. They’ll help you elevate your turkey sliders to the next level.

  • Choose High-Quality Turkey: Opt for high-quality deli turkey for better flavor.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: Leave enough space in the pan for even baking.
  • Add Fresh Herbs: Consider throwing in some fresh herbs for extra flavor. Cilantro or parsley works well.
  • Experiment with Cheeses: While Havarti shines, experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or cheddar.
  • Customize Toppings: Don’t hesitate to add toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or different sauces for variety.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have some turkey sliders left—kudos to you—they store well! Place them in an airtight container, or wrap them in plastic wrap. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy them again, just reheat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions for Turkey Sliders

Consider these favorite serving suggestions that will elevate your slider game:

  • Toppings Galore: Offer a variety of toppings. Set up a toppings bar with avocados, lettuce, tomatoes, and aioli to let guests personalize their slides.
  • Mini Sliders: Consider hosting a slider party. Make sliders bite-sized and serve them with various sauces so friends can sample a bunch of flavors.
  • Side Dishes: Pair with sides that complement the sliders. Options like sweet potato fries or onion rings pair perfectly for a complete meal.
  • Make it a Meal: Transform into a meal with salads. A fresh garden salad or pasta side can turn a casual slider into a full dinner.

Alternatives for Ingredients

Running short on any of these items? Don’t sweat it! Here are some ideas for alternatives:

  • Ground Turkey Instead of Deli Slices: If you prefer, use ground turkey to form mini patties instead of deli slices.
  • Any Cheese Variety: Substituting Havarti is a breeze. You can use mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
  • Honey Alternatives: Try maple syrup as a sweet option. It brings a different profile but tastes fantastic!
  • Alternative Rolls: Use whole-wheat or gluten-free rolls. Health-conscious guests will appreciate this variety.
Best Turkey Slider Recipe

Conclusion

Turkey sliders are more than just food; they bring joy, laughter, and deliciousness to the table. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that not only satisfies but dazzles your guests. 

Remember that cooking is as much about experimentation as it is about following recipes. So I encourage you to make this recipe your own.

As you gather with friends or family, share stories over these delightful turkey sliders, and savor the moments together. You’ll find that whether it’s a casual outing or a celebration, these sliders never disappoint. Happy cooking!

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Turkey Slider Recipe – Friendsgiving Food Ideas

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 30 mins
Servings: 24 Calories: 194 kcal
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

If you’re like me, you relish the joy of crafting quick, satisfying meals that impress. Today, we’re diving into a recipe that’s a true crowd-pleaser: turkey sliders. 

Think of mouth-watering turkey nestled between soft, pillowy buns, topped with creamy cheese and a hint of sweetness. It’s comfort food at its best, with a twist!

In the hustle and bustle of life, I know we crave those meals that are simple but delicious—easy to whip up yet still worthy of a gathering. Turkey sliders tick all those boxes and more, making them the perfect choice for any occasion. 

Whether it’s a summer BBQ or an indoor game night, these sliders will steal the show. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure together and uncover all that makes turkey sliders irresistible!

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Before you can bake those delightful sliders, fire up your oven to 350°F (175°C). This simple action creates the perfect environment for those buns to turn golden and crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

  1. Grab a large baking dish and arrange the sweet dinner rolls in it. Keep them in one piece, as you will slice them later. This is the perfect time to line the dish with parchment paper for easy clean-up later.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, dried onion flakes, smoked paprika, and poppy seeds. This mixture will serve as both a dressing and a glaze. Whisk it until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

  1. Slice the buns in half horizontally. Take the bottom half and layer it with turkey slices. Follow this by placing a slice of the creamy Havarti on each turkey layer.

    This is where the magic happens; the cheese will melt beautifully as the sliders bake.

Step 5: Drizzle the Sauce

  1. Once your sliders are layered, pour the prepared butter sauce generously over the assembled sliders. Ensure each slider gets a good coating to enhance flavor and texture.

Step 6: Bake

  1. Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, then remove the foil and let them bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. We want the sliders to be warm and the cheese melted, with the tops golden brown.

Step 7: Serve!

  1. Once off the oven, allow the sliders to cool slightly before cutting. Serve them warm and watch your guests dig in!

Nutrition Facts

Servings 24


Amount Per Serving
Calories 182kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 10g16%
Saturated Fat 4.8g24%
Cholesterol 27mg9%
Sodium 296mg13%
Total Carbohydrate 18g6%
Dietary Fiber 10g40%
Sugars 4g
Protein 11g22%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

  • Choose High-Quality Turkey: Opt for high-quality deli turkey for better flavor.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: Leave enough space in the pan for even baking.
  • Add Fresh Herbs: Consider throwing in some fresh herbs for extra flavor. Cilantro or parsley works well.
  • Experiment with Cheeses: While Havarti shines, experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or cheddar.
  • Customize Toppings: Don’t hesitate to add toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or different sauces for variety.
Keywords: turkey slider recipe
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Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I freeze turkey sliders?

  1. Absolutely! Assemble sliders and wrap them tightly. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy!

Are turkey sliders healthy?

Yes, turkey sliders can be quite nutritious! Depending on your ingredients, they can be lower in fat and calories compared to traditional beef sliders.

What drinks pair well with turkey sliders?

Light beers, iced tea, or lemonade complement the flavors beautifully. Opt for drinks that won’t overwhelm the dish.

Can I make turkey sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and assemble them in advance. Bake them fresh right before serving for the best taste.

How spicy are turkey sliders?

The sliders themselves are mild. You can adjust spice levels by adding spicy condiments or toppings to your liking!

What is the best turkey for sliders?

Fresh, roasted turkey or high-quality deli turkey works best for sliders. Look for low-sodium options to keep it healthier.

Iris Miller, Author and Registered Dietitian
Iris Miller Registered Dietitian & Food Enthusiasts

Iris Miller is a registered dietitian and the creator of Friendsgiving Food Ideas, a blog dedicated to festive, accessible recipes that bring people together. Based in Colorado, Iris combines her passion for nutrition and love of celebrations to create crowd-pleasing dishes for holidays and special occasions. Her goal is to make hosting easy, fun, and inclusive for all dietary needs.

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