Turkey Sliders

Burgers are great, but sliders are definitely superior! They are way more fun to eat because who doesn’t love eating miniature versions of their favorite foods?! If a menu has an option for sliders vs a burger, you better believe I am getting the sliders 100% of the time. These sliders are made with turkey instead of beef, so they are slightly healthier but you won’t be able to taste the difference. I know turkey burgers can be bland and not everyone’s favorite, but these have so much flavor on their own and then pairing them with caramelized onions just puts them on a whole new level. I also opted to top mine with pickles (a classic) and a harissa mayonnaise I found at Whole Foods that added a bit of heat with a rich flavor. You can make these as simple or as fun as you want! Sliders are a great option for a party as finger food or for a fun family night where everyone can customize them to their liking. Grab a bunch of toppings and let the fam or friends go crazy!

1 Lb Ground Turkey
2 Tbsp Garlic Powder
1 Tbsp Cumin
1 Tbsp Onion Powder
3 Tbsp Worcestershire
1 Tsp Paprika
1 Tsp White Pepper (Optional can sub for more Black Pepper)
1 Tsp Black Pepper
2 Tsp Salt
1 Yellow Onion, Diced
1 Tbsp Butter
1 Tbsp Oil
3 Slices Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Quartered
3 Slices Gouda Cheese, Quartered
12 Slider Buns
Optional for Serving: Aioli, Pickles, Tomatoes, Lettuce, Mustard, Mayonnaise, Ketchup

Makes: 12 Sliders
Prep Time: 30 Minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes
Total Time: 45 Minutes

To Make:

In a large mixing bowl, add the ground turkey, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, onion powder, salt, white pepper, black pepper, and 1 tbsp worcestershire. Mix to combine well. Divide the meat in to 12 equal balls and shape in to patties. *You want them to be thick, so don’t flatten them too much or they will be too large for the buns.
Place the patties on a plate or baking sheet and take the remaining worcestershire pour over the patties. Set aside to rest while you make the onions.
Heat a large pan over medium to high heat and add in the butter. Once the butter is melted, add in the diced onions and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently until the onions start to soften.
When the onions start softening, turn the heat down to low-medium and continue cooking for another 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions become a deep, caramel color. Once they have fully caramelized, turn off the heat.
Now it is time to cook the burgers. Heat a large pan over medium heat and add in 1 tbsp oil. Add a layer of patties (making sure to not overcrowd the pan – I did this in two batches) and cook for 5 minutes. Reduce the heat to low, flip and cook for 5 more minutes. After 5 minutes, top with cheese and cover to cook for another 3-5 minutes until the cheese is fully melted. Repeat this step until all patties are cooked.
After the patties are cooked, it is time to assemble the patties. Add a spoonful of caramelized onions to the bottom bun and top with any additional condiments or toppings you are using. Lastly, top with a patty and the top bun! Serve and enjoy!