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Homemade Caramelized Onion Turkey Burger Sliders photo

Caramelized Onion Turkey Burger Sliders

These Caramelized Onion Turkey Burger Sliders are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for gatherings or a casual dinner. Sweet onions and melty cheddar make them irresistible!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Burger, Caramelized Onion, Easy, Quick, Sliders, Turkey
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground turkey lean, ideally 93% lean or higher
  • 1 large onion thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce check label for permissible ingredients
  • 8 slider buns slider buns
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese halal-certified or suitable alternative
  • lettuce leaves such as romaine or butter lettuce
  • tomato slices

Instructions

Caramelize the Onions

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat in a large skillet. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally for about 20-25 minutes until the onions turn a deep golden brown and become very soft. Once caramelized, transfer the onions to a bowl and set aside.

Prepare the Turkey Burger Mixture

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix everything together—avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender.

Form the Slider Patties

  • Divide the turkey mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a small, flat patty roughly the size of your slider buns. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent puffing up during cooking.

Cook the Turkey Sliders

  • Wipe the skillet clean or use a separate pan. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Place the patties in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on the first side until the edges are opaque and the bottom is golden brown. Flip the patties, then top four of them with a slice of cheddar cheese. Continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese melts.

Toast the Slider Buns

  • While the patties finish cooking, lightly brush the slider buns with olive oil and toast them in a grill pan or oven until they are golden and slightly crispy. This adds texture and prevents the buns from getting soggy.

Assemble the Sliders

  • Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each bun, followed by a turkey patty with melted cheddar cheese. Top the cheese with a generous spoonful of caramelized onions and a slice of fresh tomato. Finish with the top bun and serve immediately.

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula or Wooden Spoon
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Plate lined with paper towels
  • Grill pan or griddle

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure turkey patties reach 165°F to prevent dryness.
  • Caramelize onions slowly on low heat to avoid burning and develop sweetness.
  • Toast buns to keep them from getting soggy and add texture.
  • Prepare caramelized onions ahead and store refrigerated for quick assembly.
  • For a spicy twist, add cayenne pepper or jalapeños to the turkey mixture.