Jalapeño Cheddar Turkey Sliders Recipe

Ground turkey: The base of the sliders, providing a lean and flavorful protein.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, sharp flavor and creamy texture to the patties.

Jalapeño: Finely chopped for a spicy kick that complements the turkey and cheese.

Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the patties together and adds a slight crunch.

Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the patties together.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor to enhance the overall taste.

When mixing the ground turkey with the other ingredients, be sure to handle the mixture gently. Overworking the meat can lead to tough and dense patties. Instead, use a light touch to combine the cheddar cheese, jalapeño, breadcrumbs, egg, and garlic powder until just incorporated. This will help maintain a tender and juicy texture in your sliders.

• ground turkey - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a good alternative to ground turkey.

• ground turkey - Substitute with ground beef: For a richer flavor, ground beef can be used, though it will add more fat to the dish.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella provides a creamy texture and mild taste, making it a versatile substitute.

• jalapeño - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers are slightly hotter but have a similar flavor profile to jalapeños.

• jalapeño - Substitute with green bell pepper: For a milder option, green bell peppers add crunch and a slight sweetness without the heat.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier, providing a similar binding effect.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed crackers: Crushed crackers can add a unique flavor and texture while still helping to bind the mixture.

• egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: A mixture of 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal and 3 tablespoons water can act as a binder for those avoiding eggs.

• egg - Substitute with applesauce: ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce can be used as a binding agent, adding moisture and a slight sweetness.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides a more robust and aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can add a different but complementary flavor if garlic is not available.

• Allow the patties to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Place the cooled patties in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store the wrapped patties in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.
• To freeze, lay the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place them in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until they are firm. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Once the patties are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• Frozen patties can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat the patties in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them on the stovetop or grill for a few minutes on each side.
• If you prefer, you can also microwave the patties on a microwave-safe plate, covered with a damp paper towel, for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Assemble the sliders with fresh buns and your choice of toppings right before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the turkey sliders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they are warmed through. This method helps maintain the juiciness of the ground turkey and the melty goodness of the cheddar cheese.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Place the sliders in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are thoroughly warmed. This method gives a nice, crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist.

• Microwave Method: Place the turkey sliders on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are heating evenly. This is the quickest method but may not retain the texture as well as other methods.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the sliders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method gives a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy, similar to the stovetop method but with less oil.

• Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Wrap the sliders in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Place them on the grill and heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method adds a nice smoky flavor to the turkey sliders.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sliders on a baking tray and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This method is convenient and retains the texture and flavor well.

• Grill: Used to cook the patties, providing a nice char and smoky flavor.

• Stovetop pan: An alternative to the grill for cooking the patties indoors.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the ground turkey, cheddar cheese, jalapeño, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

• Spatula: Essential for flipping the patties while they cook.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

• Knife: Used to finely chop the jalapeño.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the jalapeño.

• Mixing spoon: Used to mix the ingredients together in the bowl.

• Basting brush: Optional, but useful for brushing oil on the grill or pan to prevent sticking.

• Plate: Used to hold the formed patties before cooking.

• Buns: Essential for assembling the sliders.

• Toppings: Your choice of additional ingredients to complete the sliders, such as lettuce, tomato, or condiments.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the jalapeño and shred the cheddar cheese ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-made breadcrumbs: Opt for store-bought breadcrumbs to save time on preparation.

Mix in bulk: Double the ground turkey mixture and freeze half for future use, cutting down on prep time for your next batch.

Preheat efficiently: Start preheating your grill or stovetop pan while you mix the ingredients to save time.

Form patties uniformly: Use a small ice cream scoop to ensure each patty is the same size, which helps them cook evenly and quickly.