Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders

Name: Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Korean-American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1/4 cup gochujang; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon ketchup; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 green onions, sliced; 2 cups shredded green cabbage; 1/2 cup shredded carrots; 2 green onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon mayonnaise; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 slider buns; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, optional

Author: Lora

Published: February 24, 2026

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Introduction to Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders

There’s something so comforting about a good Sloppy Joe, isn’t there? If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for meals that are not only quick but also packed with flavor. Enter my Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders! This delightful twist on a classic dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family with something a little different. Trust me, these sliders will wow your taste buds and make you feel like a culinary genius—all while keeping your stress level low! Let’s dive into this scrumptious experience together!

Why You’ll Love This Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders

These Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders are a savory sensation that come together in no time. Imagine a dish that pleases everyone at the table, from picky eaters to foodies! They whip up quickly, making them an ideal choice for those busy weeknights. Plus, the unique flavor combination of gochujang and fresh veggies gives these sliders an irresistible taste that’ll have your loved ones begging for seconds!

Ingredients for Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders

When crafting your Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders, you’ll gather a delightful mix of ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground turkey: This lean meat is a healthy alternative to the traditional beef and absorbs flavors like a champ.
Vegetable oil: A dash for sautéing. It keeps your onions and garlic from sticking while adding a bit of richness.
Small onion: Finely chopped onion enhances your filling with sweetness and depth.

Garlic: Minced garlic makes everything better! It brings a pungent kick that complements the turkey.
Fresh ginger: Grated ginger adds a warm, zesty touch that pairs well with Asian flavors.
Gochujang: This fermented red chili paste is the star of the show! Its umami and spice create a fantastic depth of flavor.

Soy sauce: A splash offers a savory, salty component that rounds out the taste profile.
Brown sugar: A sprinkle balances the heat from gochujang, bringing a sweetness that lingers on the palate.
Rice vinegar: This ingredient adds a tangy zing, perfect for brightening up the filling.

Ketchup: Yes, ketchup! It mellows the spices and adds a familiar taste that ties everything together.
Toasted sesame oil: A drizzle brings a nutty aroma and rich flavor, making your sliders feel gourmet.
Black pepper: A pinch for that little kick. It complements all the other flavors perfectly.

Green onions: Sliced, these provide a fresh crunch on top of your sliders, brightening each bite.
Shredded cabbage & carrots: Together, they form a colorful slaw that adds texture and crunch, making every mouthful delightful.
Mayonnaise: It helps bind your slaw and adds creaminess, enhancing the overall experience.

Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the entire dish. Adjust to suit your taste!
Slider buns: The cozy home for all these flavors! Opt for soft, fluffy buns that hold everything together.
Toasted sesame seeds (optional): For garnish, these add visual appeal and a bit of extra flavor.

Exact quantities for each ingredient are listed at the bottom of the article. Feel free to explore substitutions based on your pantry or personal taste! After all, cooking is all about making it your own.

How to Make Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders

Now that we’ve gathered all our ingredients, it’s time to bring these Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders to life! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll see how easy it is to make this flavorful dish. Let’s get cooking!

Prepare the Slaw

First up, let’s tackle the slaw! In a large bowl, mix together your shredded cabbage, carrots, and green onions. These veggies add a fantastic crunch to our sliders. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, mayonnaise, sugar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. This creamy dressing will enhance the fresh veggies. Once combined, pour the dressing over the slaw and toss everything until it’s well-coated. Cover and refrigerate it for a bit. This refreshing slaw is a perfect topping for our sliders!

Begin Turkey Filling Base

Next, we’ll build our flavor base for the turkey filling! Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then toss in your finely chopped onion. Cook those onions for about three minutes until they soften and become translucent. The smell is already heavenly! Now, add in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Keep cooking for another minute until your kitchen is filled with an inviting aroma. This step is critical, as it sets the stage for the rich flavors of our Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders!

Brown Ground Turkey

Now it’s time to brown that ground turkey! Add the turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with your spoon. Cook it for about five to seven minutes, or until it’s no longer pink. Keep an eye out for that nice golden-brown color—it signals that we’re on the right track. Make sure the turkey cooks through completely. It’s crucial for the flavor to develop and ensures our sliders are juicy and satisfying!

Develop Turkey Sauce

Next, let’s infuse the turkey with flavor! Stir in the gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ketchup, sesame oil, and black pepper. These ingredients come together beautifully to create a creamy, spicy sauce. Let the mixture simmer for about three to four minutes. This process thickens the sauce and melds the flavors, making your turkey filling absolutely irresistible! Don’t forget to fold in those sliced green onions just before removing it from the heat for that extra burst of freshness!

Assemble Sliders

Finally, we’re ready to assemble our sliders! If you’d like, toast the slider buns for a little extra crunch. Spoon a generous portion of the turkey filling onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with the crunchy slaw, adding a delightful contrast to the tender turkey. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle on some toasted sesame seeds for added flavor! Place the top bun on each slider and serve immediately. These Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders are now ready to devour!

Tips for Success

Prep your ingredients ahead of time to make cooking smoother.
For extra flavor, try marinating your turkey in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.

Adjust the gochujang according to your spice tolerance—start small!
Make the slaw a few hours in advance for enhanced flavor.

Keep leftover filling in the fridge for quick lunches throughout the week!

Equipment Needed for Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders

Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works wonders for even cooking.

Mixing bowls: Use one large bowl for slaw and a smaller one for the dressing.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and breaking up the turkey.
Whisk: Handy for combining the dressing ingredients smoothly.
Measuring spoons: Essential for accuracy in ingredients.

Variations on Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders

Meat Alternatives: Swap out ground turkey for ground chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Both provide excellent flavor and texture!

Veggie Boost: Add extra veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded zucchini into the turkey filling for added nutrition and color.
Spice It Up: If you love heat, boost the spice level by adding Sriracha or chili flakes into the turkey mixture.
BBQ Twist: Mix in some BBQ sauce with the turkey filling for a smoky twist. It’s a fun fusion with a hint of sweetness!

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free slider buns or serve the filling over rice or quinoa for a delightful grain bowl.

Serving Suggestions with Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders

Pair sliders with crispy sweet potato fries for a delightful crunch.
Serve alongside a fresh cucumber salad to balance the flavors.

A cold, refreshing iced tea complements the spices perfectly.
Consider presenting sliders on a stylish platter for a festive touch.
Add pickled vegetables on the side for extra zing!

FAQs about Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders

Can I make Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the turkey filling and slaw ahead of time, then assemble your sliders just before serving. This makes meal prep a breeze!

What can I serve with Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders?
These sliders pair wonderfully with sides like sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or even some crunchy pickles. Get creative with your pairings!

Is gochujang necessary for the recipe?
While gochujang gives the sliders their signature flavor, you can substitute it with another chili paste or even hot sauce for a different kick. Just adjust the quantity based on your spice preference!

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover turkey filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat and enjoy them in wraps or over rice for quick lunches!

Can I customize the slaw?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like shredded bell peppers or even some spicy radishes. Tailor the slaw to your family’s taste—it’s all about making it fun!

Final Thoughts

Creating these Korean Turkey Sloppy Joe Sliders has been such a joy, and I hope it sparks excitement in your kitchen, too! There’s nothing quite like the satisfying feeling of biting into a warm, flavorful slider that bursts with fresh ingredients. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even a cozy night in. It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure that brings flavors to life and smiles to the table. So gather your loved ones, embrace the fun of cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite of these sliders. Happy cooking!