Barbecue Turkey Cole Slaw Sandwiches Recipe

A lighter take on a Southern classic! This recipe for Barbecue Turkey Cole Slaw Sandwiches offers a delicious twist on the traditional pork barbecue sandwich, perfect for a lighter meal without sacrificing flavor. Imagine juicy, crumbled turkey in a tangy barbecue sauce, topped with a refreshing crunchy coleslaw and nestled in toasted buns. This recipe, inspired by Southern Living Low-Fat Recipes (January 1997), is a family favorite that's quick, easy, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. (Optional: Substitute 1 lb ground country breakfast pork chops for a heartier version).

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Calories 287.9 kcal
Protein 39g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Barbecue Turkey Cole Slaw Sandwiches

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Barbecue Turkey Cole Slaw Sandwiches

  • Ground Turkey
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • Brown Sugar
  • Worcestershire Sauce
  • Dry Mustard
  • Liquid Smoke
  • Pepper
  • Red Cabbage
  • Granny Smith Apple
  • Carrot
  • Plain Low Fat Yogurt
  • Curry Powder
  • Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns

How to Make Barbecue Turkey Cole Slaw Sandwiches

  1. In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb ground turkey and 1 medium chopped yellow onion until browned, breaking up the turkey with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Stir in 1 cup tomato sauce, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. While the turkey mixture simmers, split and lightly toast the 4 hamburger buns.
  5. In a separate bowl, combine 4 cups shredded green cabbage, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1/4 teaspoon celery seed, and salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Spoon the turkey mixture onto the bottom halves of the toasted buns.
  7. Top with the coleslaw mixture and the top halves of the buns.
  8. Serve immediately. Optional: Serve with baked beans and crisp vegetable sticks.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

21 g

Sugar

44g

Fat

12g

Carbs

10g