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30-Minute Lighter Mini Turkey Sliders with Tangy Cranberry Aioli

turkey sliders with cranberry aioli - featured image

Juicy turkey sliders with a tangy cranberry aioli, ready in 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or game day, these lighter sliders are packed with flavor and made with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) lean ground turkey (93% lean)
  • 1/4 cup (25g) plain breadcrumbs (panko or gluten-free)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) finely grated onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • 1/3 cup (80g) whole berry cranberry sauce
  • 1/4 cup (60g) plain Greek yogurt (2% or full-fat)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Pinch of salt
  • 12 slider buns (brioche or potato rolls)
  • 4–6 leaves butter lettuce or arugula
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the cranberry aioli: In a small bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the patty mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, grated onion, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
  3. Form the patties: Divide mixture into 12 equal portions (about 2 tablespoons each). Roll into balls, then flatten into patties about 2 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick. Make a small indent in the center of each patty with your thumb.
  4. Cook the patties: Heat a large non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Toast the buns (optional): Split slider buns and toast in a dry skillet or under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
  6. Assemble the sliders: Spread cranberry aioli on bottom half of each bun. Add lettuce, a turkey patty, and red onion slices if using. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t skip the grated onion—it keeps the patties moist. Use a light hand when mixing to avoid tough patties. Let patties rest for 5 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape. Cook in batches to avoid crowding the pan. Turkey must reach 165°F (74°C) internally.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey sliders, mini sliders, cranberry aioli, healthy sliders, game day food, weeknight dinner, 30-minute meal