Festive Holiday Sliders

Name: Festive Holiday Sliders
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 1/2 cup finely chopped onion; 1/2 cup cranberry sauce; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 12 slider buns; Lettuce leaves for garnish; Sliced cheese (optional); Sliced pickles (optional); Additional cranberry sauce (optional)

Highlighted under: Creative Sweet Recipe Ideas

Every holiday season, I look forward to creating delightful treats that bring joy to my family and friends. These Festive Holiday Sliders are my go-to dish, combining savory flavors and a touch of sweetness that perfectly captures the spirit of celebration. The aroma that fills my kitchen while they bake is simply irresistible! I love how easy they are to prepare and how they can be customized with various ingredients. Whether for a festive gathering or a cozy night in, these sliders are always a hit!

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-01-06T21:49:27.736Z

When I first made these Festive Holiday Sliders, I was amazed at how the combination of savory meats and sweet cranberry sauce elevated the entire dish. The secret is to use a blend of spices in the meat mixture, which creates a depth of flavor that is truly comforting. I even experimented with adding a touch of mustard for a little heat, and it was a game changer!

As I served these sliders to my guests, the smiles on their faces told me I'd hit the mark. I always encourage others to play around with the toppings – a slice of brie, some sautéed onions, or even some pesto can turn these sliders into a personalized masterpiece. They truly shine during the holiday season, and I can’t wait to share them with you!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delicious blend of savory and sweet flavors in every bite
Versatile toppings to personalize each slider
Easy to prepare and perfect for holiday gatherings

      

Elevating Flavor with Ingredients

The combination of ground turkey and cranberry sauce not only contributes to the festive taste but also balances richness with sweetness. Ground turkey is leaner than beef, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. The cranberry sauce acts as a binder while imparting a delightful tartness that pairs perfectly with the savory notes of garlic powder and paprika, making each bite an explosion of contrasting flavors. To enhance the flavor profile even further, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the meat mixture.

The type of slider buns you choose can significantly alter the overall experience. While classic white buns work well, using whole grain or brioche sliders can introduce a nutty or buttery depth. For a gluten-free option, try using lettuce wraps or gluten-free slider buns. Be sure to check the instructions of any store-bought buns you choose to ensure they hold up well when filled with the juicy turkey patties.

Assembly and Serving Suggestions

Assembling the sliders is where creativity can truly shine. Feel free to experiment with various toppings to cater to different tastes. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or chipotle mayo. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider using cream cheese or a flavored soft cheese spread on the buns. Not to mention, the warmth of the freshly baked patties will slightly melt any cheese you choose to include, adding an irresistible gooiness.

For an appealing presentation, consider serving the sliders on a large platter garnished with additional cranberry sauce and greenery. You could also accompany them with a side of sweet potato fries or a light salad for a refreshing touch. If you have leftover sliders, they make for an excellent next-day lunch; just reheat them gently in the oven to maintain their crispy exterior.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

1 pound ground turkey
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/2 cup cranberry sauce
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
12 slider buns
Lettuce leaves for garnish

For Serving

Sliced cheese (optional)
Sliced pickles (optional)
Additional cranberry sauce (optional)

Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences!

Instructions

Preheat and Mix

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped onion, cranberry sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Shape and Bake

Form the mixture into small patties, about the size of your slider buns. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until fully cooked.

Assemble the Sliders

Once the patties are cooked, cut the slider buns in half. Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each bun, add a turkey patty, and top with additional cranberry sauce or your favorite toppings. Cover with the top half of the bun.

Serve

Serve the sliders warm and enjoy them with friends and family!

Feel free to let your creativity shine through with sliders!

Pro Tips

Consider using a mix of meats or plant-based alternatives for a different flavor profile. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the turkey can elevate the taste even further!

Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to save time on the day of your gathering, you can prepare the turkey mixture a day in advance. Store it tightly covered in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook, form the patties and bake them fresh. This will not only enhance the flavors but also help streamline the assembly process, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.

Another make-ahead option is to bake the patties and freeze them individually. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container, and they will stay fresh for up to three months. When ready to serve, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

Troubleshooting and Tips

If you find that your patties are falling apart, it could be due to the moisture from the cranberry sauce. To counteract this, consider adding a bit of bread crumbs or an egg to the mixture as a binding agent. This will help maintain their shape during baking and after assembling.

For even cooking, ensure that the patties are uniform in size—about 2 inches in diameter. This helps them cook evenly in the oven, preventing some from being overcooked while others are undercooked. A cookie scoop or your hands can help standardize the size effectively.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these sliders in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the turkey mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just shape and bake them when you're ready.

→ What other toppings can I use?

You can use sliced cheese, avocado, sautéed mushrooms, or even a spicy aioli for an extra kick!

→ Can I freeze the sliders?

Absolutely! Freeze the cooked sliders individually, and just reheat them in the oven when needed.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes! Substitute ground turkey with black beans or lentils mixed with breadcrumbs and seasonings for a tasty vegetarian slider.