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Easy Lighter Turkey Meatball Sliders for Friendsgiving

turkey meatball sliders - featured image

These Lighter Friendsgiving Turkey Meatball Sliders are cozy, satisfying, and fit right into a table full of indulgent sides without weighing you down. They’re quick to make, use simple ingredients, and are perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground turkey (93% lean, 7% fat)
  • ½ cup (60g) breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
  • ¼ cup (60ml) milk (any kind)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • ¼ cup (25g) Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup (240ml) marinara sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 12 slider buns (whole wheat or brioche)
  • 6 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese, cut in half (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Make the panade: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the liquid and form a paste.
  3. Mix the meatball ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, panade, beaten egg, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix gently until just combined.
  4. Form the meatballs: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, roll the mixture into 12 equal-sized balls (about 1.5 tablespoons each). Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about an inch apart. Drizzle with olive oil and roll them around to coat lightly.
  5. Bake the meatballs: Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the meatballs are golden brown on the outside.
  6. Warm the sauce: While the meatballs bake, combine the marinara sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and honey in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. Do not let it boil.
  7. Toast the buns: About 5 minutes before the meatballs are done, split the slider buns in half and brush the cut sides with melted butter. Place them on a separate baking sheet, cut-side up, and pop them in the oven for 3-4 minutes until lightly golden.
  8. Assemble the sliders: Remove the buns from the oven. Place a meatball on each bottom bun, spoon a little sauce over the top, and add a half-slice of cheese if using. Return the sliders to the oven (with the tops off) for 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese melts.
  9. Finish and serve: Place the top buns on each slider, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure meatballs reach 165°F without overcooking. Toast buns briefly to avoid drying them out. The sauce can be made ahead for better flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey meatball sliders, Friendsgiving, easy appetizer, lighter recipe, party food