Best Juicy Turkey Sliders with Spicy Aioli You’ll Crave Tonight

Megan

The Guardian of Family Flavors

Turkey Sliders with Spicy Aioli

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly juicy turkey slider topped with a bold, spicy aioli that wakes up your taste buds. After getting tired of the usual fast food routine, I started experimenting with turkey sliders at home, and this spicy aioli twist quickly became a game changer. These sliders are not only bursting with flavor but also come together faster than you’d expect, making them perfect for a casual dinner or impressing friends at your next get-together. Whether you’re craving something lighter yet flavorful or looking to spice up your slider game, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between hearty and zesty — all wrapped in a soft, toasted bun.

Why choose Turkey Sliders with Spicy Aioli?

Bold Flavor Boost: The spicy aioli elevates juicy turkey sliders with a zesty kick you won’t forget. Simple & Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Healthy Twist: Lean turkey keeps it lighter than traditional beef sliders. Crowd-Pleaser: Soft buns and customizable toppings make it a hit for all tastes. Versatile Meal: Great as a casual dinner or show-stopping appetizer for guests.

Turkey Sliders with Spicy Aioli Ingredients

For the Turkey Sliders

  • Ground turkey – Choose lean to keep your sliders juicy yet healthy.
  • Yellow onion – Finely chopped to add moisture and a mild sweetness.
  • Garlic cloves – Minced, for a subtle aromatic depth.
  • Worcestershire sauce – Adds a savory umami punch to the turkey mix.
  • Smoked paprika – Brings a smoky warmth that complements the spicy aioli perfectly.
  • Salt & black pepper – Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.

For the Spicy Aioli

  • Mayonnaise – The creamy base that carries flavor and texture.
  • Sriracha sauce – Your go-to for adding a fiery kick without overpowering.
  • Lemon juice – Brightens the aioli with a fresh citrus tang.
  • Garlic powder – Enhances the aioli’s garlicky undertone with convenience.
  • Salt – Just a pinch to sharpen all the flavors.

For Serving

  • Slider buns – Soft, slightly toasted buns bring everything together.
  • Leafy lettuce – Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch.
  • Tomato slices – Juicy and fresh for a nice contrast.
  • Pickles – Optional, for tangy zip that balances the spice in the aioli.

Discover how simple ingredients can transform into crowd-pleasing Turkey Sliders with Spicy Aioli that you’ll want to make again and again!

How to Make Turkey Sliders with Spicy Aioli

For the Sliders:

  1. Mix: Combine ground turkey, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl, mixing until just combined.
  2. Form & Chill: Shape mixture into eight 3-inch patties, then chill in the fridge for 10 minutes to help them hold their shape.
  3. Cook: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high, then cook sliders 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F.

For the Spicy Aioli:

  1. Whisk: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha, lemon juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt until creamy and smooth.

To Assemble:

  1. Toast: Lightly butter the slider buns, then toast in the same skillet over medium heat until edges are golden, about 1–2 minutes.
  2. Assemble: Spread aioli on both bun halves, layer with lettuce, turkey patties, tomato slices, and pickles for a tangy crunch that balances heat.

Optional: Add a slice of pepper jack cheese for extra melt and spice.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Turkey Sliders with Spicy Aioli?

Imagine a vibrant spread that elevates your turkey sliders to new heights and invites everyone to the table with warmth and comfort.

  • Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These golden, savory fries add a satisfying crunch and hint of sweetness, creating a delightful contrast to the spicy aioli.

  • Tangy Coleslaw: A cool, creamy coleslaw with a hint of vinegar cuts through the richness of the sliders, balancing the meal beautifully. The crisp cabbage is not only refreshing but also adds a lovely crunch.

  • Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn bursting with flavor embodies summer and makes for a delightful side that complements the zesty sliders.

  • Stuffed Jalapeños: For those craving an extra kick, these cheesy, spicy bites have a fun, game-day vibe that pairs perfectly with the sliders.

  • Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad with berries, melon, and citrus offers a lovely sweet contrast, cleansing the palate between bites.

  • Classic Potato Salad: Creamy and loaded with herbs, this potato salad rounds out the meal with its comforting flavors and creamy texture, making every bite a pleasure.

  • Sparkling Lemonade: A fizzy, bright lemonade is the perfect drink to wash down those sliders, its citrus notes amplifying the spicy aioli’s kick while refreshing your taste buds.

  • Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies that are a timeless favorite, providing a comforting finish to a delightful dinner.

How to Store and Freeze Turkey Sliders with Spicy Aioli

Fridge: Store leftover turkey sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the spicy aioli separate to maintain freshness.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the sliders individually in plastic wrap, then place in a resealable freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw sliders in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, or until heated through, and reapply spicy aioli just before serving.

Assembly Tip: For the best texture, re-toast slider buns before serving these delicious turkey sliders with spicy aioli.

Make Ahead Options

These Turkey Sliders with Spicy Aioli are fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare the turkey slider patties up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply mix your ground turkey with onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then shape them into patties and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can make the spicy aioli up to 3 days in advance; just whisk together the mayonnaise, Sriracha, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt, then refrigerate in a sealed jar. When you’re ready to cook, simply pan-fry the sliders for about 4-5 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This prep-ahead strategy ensures you can enjoy these delicious turkey sliders quickly while maintaining their juicy quality!

Expert Tips for Turkey Sliders with Spicy Aioli

  • Use Lean but Moist Turkey: Opt for lean ground turkey but avoid overly dry mixes by adding finely chopped onion and Worcestershire sauce for juiciness.
  • Don’t Overmix the Meat: Gently combine ingredients to keep sliders tender; overworking can make them dense and tough.
  • Chill Patties Before Cooking: Resting the shaped patties helps them hold together and cook evenly without falling apart.
  • Control Aioli Spice Level: Adjust the Sriracha in your spicy aioli to balance heat with creaminess according to your preference.
  • Toast Buns Properly: Lightly butter buns and toast until just golden to add crunch without drying them out.
  • Check Internal Temperature: Ensure turkey sliders reach 165°F internally for safe consumption while remaining juicy and flavorful.

Turkey Sliders with Spicy Aioli Variations

Feel inspired to make these sliders your own and explore exciting twists that cater to every palate.

  • BBQ Twist: Swap the spicy aioli for your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky, sweet flavor that complements the turkey perfectly.
  • Cheesy Delight: Add a slice of your favorite cheese, like cheddar or pepper jack, during the last minute of cooking for a melty surprise.
  • Herbed Turkey: Incorporate fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley into the turkey mix for an aromatic boost that adds freshness.
  • Gluten-Free: Use lettuce wraps instead of buns for a delicious gluten-free alternative—light and refreshing!
  • Mediterranean Flair: Mix in feta cheese and chopped olives in the turkey blend, then serve with tzatziki instead of aioli for a Greek-style twist.
  • Spicy Pickles: Opt for spicy pickles to amplify the heat and add a crunch that beautifully compliments the spicy aioli.
  • Veggie Boost: Add shredded carrots or finely chopped bell peppers to the turkey mixture to pack in an extra serving of veggies.
  • Sweet Heat: Drizzle honey or a touch of hot honey over the sliders for a delightful contrast of sweet and spicy flavors.

Each variation allows you to play with flavors and textures, ensuring your turkey sliders stay exciting every time you serve them!

Turkey Sliders with Spicy Aioli Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my ground turkey is fresh and good to use?
Choose ground turkey that looks pink with no dark spots or grayish discoloration. Fresh turkey should smell mild, not sour or off.

Can I store leftover turkey sliders with the spicy aioli already assembled?
I recommend storing the turkey sliders and spicy aioli separately. Keeping the aioli apart prevents the buns from becoming soggy and helps maintain the freshest flavors for up to 3 days in the fridge.

What’s the best way to freeze turkey sliders for later?
Absolutely! Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap, then place them all in a resealable freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet on medium heat until warmed through. Toast the buns again before assembling with freshly spread spicy aioli for that perfect bite.

My turkey sliders sometimes come out dry—how can I keep them juicy?
Very common! To keep sliders juicy, choose lean (not extra-lean) ground turkey and mix in finely chopped onion and Worcestershire sauce—these add moisture without extra fat. Avoid overmixing, and remember to chill the patties before cooking; it helps them hold juices better.

Is the spicy aioli safe for pets or people with garlic allergies?
I’d advise against sharing spicy aioli with pets since it contains garlic and chili, both unsafe for animals. For guests with garlic allergies, you can skip the garlic powder and substitute Sriracha with a milder sauce or omit it entirely for a creamy, less spicy aioli alternative.

Turkey Sliders with Spicy Aioli

Best Juicy Turkey Sliders with Spicy Aioli You’ll Crave Tonight

Delicious Turkey Sliders with Spicy Aioli that are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 sliders
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Turkey Sliders
  • 1 pound Ground turkey Choose lean to keep your sliders juicy yet healthy.
  • 1 medium Yellow onion Finely chopped to add moisture and a mild sweetness.
  • 2 cloves Garlic cloves Minced, for a subtle aromatic depth.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Adds a savory umami punch to the turkey mix.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Brings a smoky warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon Black pepper Essential for seasoning.
For the Spicy Aioli
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise The creamy base for flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce Adds a fiery kick.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon juice Brightens the aioli.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Enhances the aioli’s garlicky undertone.
  • 1 pinch Salt To sharpen all the flavors.
For Serving
  • 8 pieces Slider buns Soft, slightly toasted.
  • 1 cup Leafy lettuce Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch.
  • 1 medium Tomato slices Fresh for contrast.
  • optional Pickles For tangy zip that balances the spice.

Equipment

  • Nonstick skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

For the Sliders
  1. Combine ground turkey, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl, mixing until just combined.
  2. Shape mixture into eight 3-inch patties, then chill in the fridge for 10 minutes.
  3. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high, then cook sliders 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F.
For the Spicy Aioli
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha, lemon juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt until creamy and smooth.
To Assemble
  1. Lightly butter the slider buns, then toast in the same skillet over medium heat until edges are golden.
  2. Spread aioli on both bun halves, layer with lettuce, turkey patties, tomato slices, and pickles.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliderCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 20gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Add a slice of pepper jack cheese for extra melt and spice if desired. For the best texture, re-toast slider buns before serving.

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