Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders

There’s something uniquely satisfying about the combination of flavors in Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders. I remember the first time I made these with my family; the kitchen was filled with laughter, and the aroma of seasoned ground turkey wafting through the air made everyone’s mouths water. These sliders aren’t just a meal; they’re a canvas for creativity, allowing each of us to customize to our liking. As we gathered around the table, the discussion flowed as freely as the condiments, and it felt like more than just dinner; it was an experience. With every bite, the soft Hawaiian rolls cradled the savory mixture, and it was tough to resist going back for seconds, or even thirds! These sliders have become a staple in our home, a family favorite that I cherish making for gatherings, especially during the fall.

What Goes Into Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders

Creating the perfect Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders starts with quality ingredients. Each one plays a unique role, balancing flavors and textures. The key players include ground turkey, which serves as the hearty base, and a mix of spices that elevate the dish to a new level. Together, they meld into a delicious filling that pairs beautifully with soft Hawaiian rolls, making each bite memorable.

• 1¼ pounds ground turkey (93% or 99% lean) – Lean ground turkey is the star of this dish, providing a hearty yet healthy base that is easy to cook and absorb flavors.
• One 15-ounce can tomato sauce – This adds moisture and a rich, tangy sweetness that complements the spices and meat perfectly.
• 2 tablespoons cider vinegar – A splash of acidity that brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the turkey.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Helps to thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings nicely to the meat and rolls.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – This adds a subtle smokiness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Cumin provides an earthy warmth that pairs beautifully with the turkey.
• ½ teaspoon celery salt – A seasoning that adds depth and enhances the savory notes of the filling.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Garlic powder infuses the mixture with aromatic flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
• ½ teaspoon chili powder – This adds a mild heat and robust flavor that rounds out the spice blend.
• ½ cup finely chopped sweet onion – Sweet onion adds a tender crunch and natural sweetness that balances the savory elements.
• 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed – Provides additional texture and a boost of fiber, making the sliders more filling.
• sliced Smoked Gouda or other cheese (optional) – A delicious topping that melts beautifully, adding creaminess to each slider.
• 8 slider-sized Hawaiian rolls, cut in half (or other small rolls) – The perfect base for these sliders, offering a sweet contrast to the savory filling.

How to Cook Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders

Cooking Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders is a fun and engaging process that brings the family together. The first step is to gather all your ingredients and set up your workspace. Trust me, once you start combining these flavors, the anticipation will grow! Follow these detailed steps for a successful outcome:

1. Spray a large skillet with nonstick spray and heat over medium-high. Once hot, add the ground turkey. Use a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. This should take about 4 to 5 minutes until it’s no longer pink and cooked through.
2. Next, add the tomato sauce and cider vinegar to the cooked turkey. Stir well and allow the mixture to simmer over medium heat. This will help the flavors meld beautifully.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch, smoked paprika, ground cumin, celery salt, garlic powder, and chili powder. This spice blend is key to a flavorful filling. Stir it into the turkey mixture, and let it continue to simmer for another 7 to 10 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thicken slightly.
4. In a separate smaller nonstick skillet, spray with nonstick spray and heat over medium. Add the sweet onion and cook, stirring often, until it begins to brown. This should take about 4 to 5 minutes.
5. Add 2 tablespoons of water to the onions, and cook until they’ve softened and the water has evaporated, roughly 2 to 3 minutes. This creates sweet, tender onions that will enhance your filling.
6. Stir the cooked onions and rinsed black beans into the turkey mixture. This adds texture and nutrition, making each bite heartier.
7. Now it’s time to assemble! Divide the turkey mixture between the halves of the Hawaiian rolls. If you’re opting for cheese, place the cheese on the meat and pop them under the broiler for a quick melt.
8. Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, carefully remove the sliders from the oven. Add the tops of the rolls and serve immediately. These sliders are best enjoyed warm!

Recipe Notes about Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders

These Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders are versatile and can be tailored to your preferences. Here are some helpful notes to consider when making this dish:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze the cooked turkey mixture! Place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: These sliders pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or baked sweet potato fries. They make for a complete meal!
• Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar or pepper jack also work beautifully!
• Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder to your tolerance for heat. A little more can go a long way!
• Serving Size: If you’re hosting a gathering, consider making a double batch, as these sliders tend to go fast!

What to Serve Alongside Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders

Serving Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders can be as fun as preparing them. Here are some ideas to create a delightful meal:

• Fresh Salads: A crisp green salad, perhaps with a tangy vinaigrette, balances the richness of the sliders perfectly. It adds a refreshing crunch.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Baked or fried sweet potato fries are a delicious side that complements the sliders’ flavors. The sweetness pairs well with the savory filling.
• Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad with vegetables offers a great side option. You can dress it up with Italian or vinaigrette sauces for extra flavor.
• Chips and Dip: Serve a side of tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole. This can enhance the casual vibe of your meal.
• Occasions: These sliders are particularly great for game days, family gatherings, or casual dinners. They bring a sense of comfort and nostalgia.
• Warming Options: If you’re making these for a larger group, consider keeping the filling warm in a slow cooker. This way, guests can help themselves as they arrive!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders truly stand out as a comforting and delicious option for any meal. Their ease of preparation and customization options make them a perfect go-to dish for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. I highly encourage you to try making these sliders tonight; they might just become your new family favorite!

Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders

The ultimate comfort food, Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders mix savory ground turkey with tangy sauce, all tucked into soft rolls. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, these sliders are sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Try this easy recipe tonight!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.25 pounds ground turkey 93% or 99% lean
• 1 can tomato sauce 15 ounces
• 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon celery salt
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon chili powder
• 0.5 cup sweet onion (½ medium, finely chopped)
• 1 cup black beans canned, rinsed
• 1 sliced Smoked Gouda or other cheese optional
• 8 slider-sized Hawaiian rolls cut in half (or other small rolls)

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Spray a large skillet with nonstick spray and heat over medium-high. Add the ground turkey and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks until no longer pink.
2. Add the tomato sauce and cider vinegar to the turkey and stir. Allow to simmer over medium-high heat.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch, smoked paprika, ground cumin, celery salt, garlic powder, and chili powder. Stir this into the turkey mixture and simmer for 7 to 10 minutes.
4. In another nonstick skillet, spray and heat over medium. Add the sweet onion and cook until browned, stirring often for about 4 to 5 minutes.
5. Add some water to the onions and cook until softened and water evaporates, about 2 to 3 minutes.
6. Stir the cooked onions and rinsed black beans into the turkey mixture.
7. Divide the turkey mixture among the Hawaiian rolls. If using cheese, add it now and broil briefly until melted.
8. Add the tops of the rolls and serve immediately.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Tip 2: Yes, you can freeze the cooked turkey mixture for up to 3 months.
• Tip 3: These sliders pair wonderfully with fresh salads or baked sweet potato fries.
• Tip 4: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack.
• Tip 5: Adjust the chili powder to your desired spice level.
• Tip 6: Consider making a double batch for gatherings, as these sliders tend to go fast!

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Meet Blaire Holloway

Taking traditional feast recipes and giving them a modern, vibrant twist is what drives me. I want to keep your menu exciting and fresh. I handled the cooking and photography for this recipe, working to bridge the gap between classic comfort and contemporary flavor for your table.