Save These garlic butter turkey burger sliders are my secret weapon when I need a crowd-pleasing main that feels special but comes together in a flash. Juicy patties loaded with savory aromatics, a blanket of melty cheese, and plenty of garlicky butter tucked into pillowy slider buns make these irresistible for parties, game nights, or a fun family dinner.
These sliders were born out of one chaotic birthday party when I needed something easy and guaranteed delicious. Now they are my family's most-requested weeknight dinner and never last until leftovers.
Ingredients
- Ground turkey: delivers a tender, lean bite and soaks up all the spices
- Fresh parsley: brings brightness and a touch of color in the patties
- Breadcrumbs: help hold everything together and provide the perfect texture
- Large egg: acts as the binder for juicy but sturdy patties
- Salt and black pepper: keep the seasoning well balanced
- Onion powder: gives mellow sweetness to boost the turkey
- Smoked paprika: adds gentle smoky depth and gorgeous color
- Unsalted butter: is the rich canvas for the garlic butter
- Fresh garlic: infuses every bite with that craveable garlicky punch
- Chives: add a lovely mild onion note and pretty green flecks
- Lemon zest: brightens the garlic butter and lifts up the richness
- Soft slider buns: hold everything together without overpowering the filling
- Cheddar or provolone cheese: brings creamy melt and flavor
- Baby arugula or lettuce: keeps things fresh and adds crunch
- Fresh tomato: supplies juicy sweetness and color
- Mayonnaise: offers creaminess and ties everything together if desired
Instructions
- Make the Patty Mixture:
- Place ground turkey in a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped parsley, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Use clean hands or a sturdy spoon to gently mix until just combined. Overmixing can make the patties tough.
- Shape and Prep the Patties:
- Divide the turkey mixture into eight equal portions. With slightly damp hands, gently shape each into a patty about a half inch thick, a little wider than your slider buns to allow for shrinkage while cooking. Arrange the patties on a tray.
- Create the Garlic Butter:
- In a small bowl, work together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped chives, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is well blended and fragrant. Set aside at room temperature.
- Toast the Slider Buns:
- Set a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Spread half the garlic butter evenly on the inside cut surfaces of the slider buns. Once the skillet is hot, arrange the buns cut side down. Toast until the buns turn golden and crisp, about two to three minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Turkey Patties:
- Add a swirl of oil to the skillet if it looks dry. Gently lay the shaped patties into the hot pan. Cook over medium heat for about three to four minutes per side, letting them get a nice golden brown crust. Flip with a spatula and continue until the patties are cooked through with no pink in the middle.
- Melt the Cheese:
- When the patties are almost done, top each with a slice of cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil for the final minute of cooking so the cheese melts completely and becomes bubbly.
- Add Extra Garlic Butter:
- Remove the patties from the heat. For even more garlic goodness, smear the remaining garlic butter over the tops of the warm patties or on the cut side of the top buns.
- Build the Sliders:
- Lay fresh arugula or lettuce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a cheesy turkey patty over the greens. Add a fresh tomato slice and a dollop of mayonnaise if you like. Cap with the garlic buttered bun top and gently press down.
- Serve Warm:
- Stack the assembled sliders on a platter and serve while the cheese is still gooey and the buns are warm.
Save The fresh lemon zest in the garlic butter always surprises guests with its brightness. One holiday, my kids begged for extra garlic butter on their patties and now it is a non-negotiable in our house. Every time I make these, I remember how something as simple as butter and garlic can make even a weeknight feel festive.
Storage Tips
Cool the sliders completely before storing. To keep them fresh, wrap individual sliders tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, unwrap and warm on a baking sheet in a 350 degree oven until heated through and buns are crisp again.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try ground chicken as a swap for turkey or use your favorite plant-based patties for a meat-free alternative. Gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns will make this recipe suitable for those avoiding wheat. For dairy-free sliders, swap in plant-based butter and nondairy cheese slices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sliders alongside sweet potato fries or crispy oven potatoes for a comforting meal. Add a crisp slaw or pickle platter for brightness. For parties, set up a topping bar so everyone can customize their own with extra greens, pickles, or sauces.
Cultural and Historical Context
Sliders have classic American roots as mini burgers meant for sharing with friends. These turkey burgers get a modern upgrade with garlicky butter inspired by bistro-style patties and fresh flavors. Garlic butter, with its European flair, brings a touch of comfort and warmth perfect for family gatherings or casual celebrations.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, use fresh tomatoes, crisp arugula, and plenty of chives. During cooler months, try a dollop of cranberry sauce or caramelized onions for a seasonal touch. Grilled slider patties are fantastic for backyard cookouts in warm weather.
Save I have made these sliders for birthday parties, neighborhood potlucks, and even picnic lunches at the park. They disappear faster than anything else on the table. Friends have asked for the recipe and report back with rave reviews, especially about the signature garlic butter.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I keep turkey patties juicy?
Mix the turkey gently and avoid overworking the meat to maintain tenderness. Adding breadcrumbs and egg helps retain moisture during cooking.
- → Can I substitute ground chicken for turkey?
Yes, ground chicken works well as an alternative, offering similar texture and flavor in the sliders.
- → How do I toast slider buns perfectly?
Spread garlic butter on the cut sides and toast buttered side-down in a preheated skillet until golden for extra flavor.
- → Which cheese pairs best with turkey sliders?
Cheddar adds sharpness while provolone gives a milder, creamy finish. Adjust to your taste preferences.
- → What sides complement these sliders?
Sweet potato fries, crisp green salads, or pickles make tasty accompaniments for these turkey sliders.
- → How do I add a spicy kick?
Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños into the turkey mixture for extra heat.