Introduction

These turkey sliders are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a quick meal or entertaining guests. Made with lean ground turkey and melty sharp Cheddar, they offer a lighter twist on the classic slider without sacrificing taste.

Turkey Sliders with Cheddar, Hawaiian Buns, and Optional Toppings Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1½ pounds ground turkey (preferably 85 percent lean)
1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Kosher salt and ground black pepper
Ground cayenne (optional)
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
6 slices sharp Cheddar (about 6 ounces), each torn into 4 squares
1 (12-ounce) package Hawaiian sweet rolls (12 buns), split
Barbecue sauce, mayonnaise, caramelized onions, and pickle chips (optional), for serving

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, onion powder, 1½ teaspoons salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and a large pinch of cayenne if you’d like a little heat. Mix gently to combine.
Step 2: Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions (about 1/4 cup each) on a large plate or cutting board. Form each portion into a 2 ½-inch-wide patty.
Step 3: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add 6 patties to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until browned, cooked through, and no longer pink in the center.
Step 4: Place 2 squares of Cheddar on each cooked patty and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, until the cheese melts. Transfer the patties to a plate and repeat the cooking process with the remaining patties and cheese.
Step 5: Preheat the broiler. Place the split Hawaiian sweet rolls on a baking sheet and broil on the top rack of the oven until just toasted. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 6: Assemble your sliders by spreading barbecue sauce and mayonnaise on both sides of each toasted bun if desired. Add a turkey patty and top with caramelized onions and pickle chips for extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For juicier patties, avoid overmixing the turkey and consider adding a tablespoon of grated zucchini or finely chopped mushrooms for moisture.
Swap sharp Cheddar for pepper Jack cheese if you prefer a spicy kick.
Use brioche buns as a richer alternative to Hawaiian sweet rolls.
Make caramelized onions ahead of time to save prep time when assembling.

Storage

Store cooked turkey patties and buns separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat patties gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Assemble sliders just before serving to keep buns from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well as a substitute but may result in a slightly different texture. Just be sure to cook patties thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How can I make these sliders ahead of time for a party?

You can prepare and cook the patties a day before, then refrigerate. Toast the buns and assemble the sliders right before serving to keep everything fresh and delicious.

Turkey Sliders with Cheddar, Hawaiian Buns, and Optional Toppings Recipe

Print Recipe

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4.5 from 83 reviews

These Turkey Sliders are juicy and flavorful mini sandwiches made with lean ground turkey, sharp cheddar cheese, and sweet Hawaiian rolls. Perfect for a quick meal or party appetizer, they’re seasoned with garlic, onion powders, and optional cayenne for a bit of heat, then pan-cooked to tender perfection. Topped with caramelized onions, pickles, and your favorite barbecue sauce or mayo, these sliders deliver a satisfying combination of savory and sweet flavors in every bite.

Author: Marco
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 sliders 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale

Turkey Patties

1½ pounds ground turkey (preferably 85 percent lean)
½ medium yellow onion, finely chopped
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1½ teaspoons kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Large pinch of ground cayenne (optional)
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
6 slices sharp Cheddar cheese (about 6 ounces), each torn into 4 squares

Assembly and Serving

1 (12-ounce) package Hawaiian sweet rolls (12 buns), split
Barbecue sauce (optional)
Mayonnaise (optional)
Caramelized onions (optional)
Pickle chips (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the turkey patties: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, onion powder, 1½ teaspoons salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and optional cayenne. Mix gently to combine. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions (about ¼ cup each) on a large plate or cutting board, then shape each portion into a 2½-inch-wide patty.
Cook the patties: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once hot, add 6 patties to the skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until patties are browned, cooked through, and no longer pink in the center. Place 2 squares of cheddar cheese on each cooked patty and let it melt for 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer the patties to a plate and repeat the process with the remaining patties and cheese.
Toast the buns: Preheat the broiler. Arrange the split Hawaiian buns on a baking sheet and place it on a rack in the upper third of the oven. Broil just until the buns are toasted and slightly golden. Monitor closely to prevent burning.
Assemble the sliders: Optional: spread a generous amount of barbecue sauce and mayonnaise on both sides of the toasted buns. Place a cheesy turkey patty on each bun and top with caramelized onions and pickle chips if desired. Serve the sliders immediately for best taste and texture.

Notes

You can use lean ground turkey breast for an even leaner option, but patties may be slightly drier.
Adjust the amount of cayenne according to your spice preference or omit for a milder flavor.
Caramelized onions can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for extra convenience.
Sweet Hawaiian rolls add a nice contrast in flavor, but any slider bun can be substituted if unavailable.
Ensure the patties are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Keywords: turkey sliders, ground turkey burgers, mini sandwiches, Hawaiian rolls, cheesy turkey patties, easy party food, quick dinner recipe