As I rummaged through my fridge, a lightbulb moment struck me—what if I turned my leftover turkey into scrumptious Turkey Cranberry Sliders? With gooey cheese melting into beautifully golden buns, this recipe guarantees a hit at any gathering or even a cozy weeknight dinner. Offering convenience and versatility, these sliders are perfect for a quick fix or a crowd-pleaser, easily adjusting to suit your taste. Whether you want to use turkey, ham, or even a touch of Dijon mustard, the options are limitless. Are you ready to impress your friends and family with a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up?
Why Are These Sliders So Irresistible?
Ultimate convenience: Ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, these Turkey Cranberry Sliders require minimal prep and deliver maximum flavor.
Flavor explosion: A delightful blend of savory turkey and tart cranberry sauce, each bite bursts with robust taste, making them a crowd favorite.
Versatile and fun: Swap out turkey for ham or beef, and experiment with different cheeses to customize your sliders for any palate!
Perfect for sharing: Whether it’s game day or a family gathering, these sliders are the perfect finger food that everyone will love. Plus, you can always pair them with refreshing sides or a fruity platter for added flair—check out my Roast Beef Cranberry for another flavorful option!
Turkey Cranberry Sliders Ingredients
For the Sliders
• Hawaiian Sweet Rolls – These soft, slightly sweet buns create a fluffy texture that perfectly balances savory turkey and tart cranberry. Substitute with any soft slider bun if needed.
• Sliced Deli Turkey Breast – A convenient option that packs savory flavor; be sure to choose high-quality, thinly sliced turkey for the best taste.
• Provolone or Swiss Cheese – Both varieties melt beautifully and provide a mild taste that enhances the sliders without overpowering the other flavors.
• Cranberry Sauce – Essential for adding tartness and sweetness; opt for chunky sauce to introduce added texture to your sliders.
For the Topping
• Unsalted Butter – This enhances flavor and helps achieve a beautifully golden crust on your sliders.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning – A delightful savory topping that adds texture and a wonderful aroma; feel free to substitute with poppy seeds if necessary.
With these Turkey Cranberry Sliders ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a mouthwatering dish that’s both easy and ideal for sharing!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Turkey Cranberry Sliders will bake evenly, helping to create that perfect golden top. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients and a 9×13 inch baking dish, preparing for the assembly ahead.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or a bit of butter. This step is essential to prevent the sliders from sticking to the dish during baking, resulting in easy removal later. Set the greased dish aside, ready for the delicious layers to come.
Step 3: Slice the Rolls
Take your package of Hawaiian Sweet Rolls and carefully slice them horizontally in one piece, keeping the rolls connected. This method creates a convenient base for your Turkey Cranberry Sliders, allowing you to build the layers without losing any tasty fillings.
Step 4: Layer with Turkey and Cheese
Place the bottom half of the rolls in the greased baking dish. Begin layering sliced deli turkey breast over the rolls, followed by a generous layer of provolone or Swiss cheese. The cheese will melt beautifully, adding a gooey texture that perfectly complements the savory turkey.
Step 5: Add Cranberry Sauce
Next, spoon a layer of chunky cranberry sauce over the cheese, distributing it evenly across the sliders. The tartness of cranberry adds a delightful contrast to the savory turkey and cheese, making your Turkey Cranberry Sliders burst with flavor.
Step 6: Top with the Rolls
Carefully place the top half of the rolls back onto your layered sliders. Press it down gently to secure the filling and help with even cooking. This completes the assembly, setting the stage for the buttery, flavorful topping that will be applied next.
Step 7: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, whisk together melted unsalted butter and everything bagel seasoning until well combined. This mixture not only adds flavor but also helps create a beautiful golden crust on the sliders. You’re now ready to brush this delicious blend over the tops of the assembled sliders.
Step 8: Bake with Foil
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. This initial covered baking allows steam to build up, melting the cheese perfectly while ensuring the sliders remain moist and flavorful.
Step 9: Final Bake for Color
After 15 minutes, carefully remove the foil and return the sliders to the oven. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, watching closely as the tops turn golden brown and the cheese bubbles enticingly. This step is crucial for achieving that inviting texture and appearance.
Step 10: Cool and Slice
Once the sliders are beautifully golden and cheesy, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly in the dish. After a few minutes, slice the sliders along their natural seams. Serve them warm, savoring the delightful combination of flavors in your Turkey Cranberry Sliders.
Make Ahead Options
These Turkey Cranberry Sliders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the sliders up to 24 hours in advance by layering the turkey, cheese, and cranberry sauce between the rolls, then brushing with the butter mixture. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain moisture and prevent drying. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply remove the cover and bake directly from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they’re heated through. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade sliders that are just as flavorful and comforting, saving you time on busy days while impressing family and friends!
Turkey Cranberry Sliders Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to unleash your creativity and adjust this recipe to match your tastes and dietary needs!
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Cheese Swap: Substitute with sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor or pepper jack for a spicy twist. The gooeyness will remain, but the flavor punch is elevated!
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Different Meats: Replace turkey with sliced ham or roast beef for delightful variations. Each meat brings its unique flavor profile, transforming your sliders into exciting new bites.
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Herb-Infused Butter: Add a touch of dried sage or thyme to the butter glaze for an aromatic finish. It’s an easy way to elevate the flavor profile while keeping it simple.
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Mustard Kick: Smear a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the buns for an added tang. The acidity of mustard can brighten the overall flavor, making each bite more dynamic.
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Veggie Boost: Consider adding baby spinach or arugula for a fresh crunch. This not only adds color but also increases the nutritional value of your sliders.
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Vegan Options: Swap turkey for roasted vegetables and use vegan cheese for a plant-based version. Fun and flavorful, these sliders will please everyone at the table!
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Sticky Sweet: Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the sliders just before serving for an unexpected sweetness. The combination of sweet and savory is always a hit!
When you’re considering the best pairings, don’t forget to check out my tasty Chicken Parmesan Sliders for another crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any gathering!
What to Serve with Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that balance flavors and textures alongside these scrumptious sliders.
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Creamy Coleslaw: Offers a crunchy contrast to the soft sliders, while its tanginess complements the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, they provide a warm, comforting bite that harmonizes with the savory turkey.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette brightens the meal, adding a lightness that perfectly offsets the richness of the sliders.
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Fruit Platter: Juicy slices of seasonal fruits, like apples and grapes, bring a burst of sweetness and enhance the savory notes of the sliders.
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Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes: Crispy, seasoned potatoes create a hearty side, packed with flavor that pairs beautifully with the turkey and cheese.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: A refreshing beverage that echoes the sweetness of cranberry while adding a festive touch—perfect for gatherings!
With these delightful accompaniments, your Turkey Cranberry Sliders will become the star of the meal, leaving everyone asking for seconds!
How to Store and Freeze Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Fridge: Store leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated thoroughly.
Make-Ahead: You can assemble the sliders up to the butter glaze step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it super convenient for parties!
Expert Tips for Turkey Cranberry Sliders
• Don’t Rush the Heating: Allow your oven to fully preheat. This step ensures even baking, resulting in perfectly golden tops and melted cheese in your Turkey Cranberry Sliders.
• Choose Quality Ingredients: High-quality turkey and cheese elevate the flavor of your sliders. Avoid rubbery deli meats; opt for fresh, thinly sliced deli turkey for the best taste.
• Prevent Soggy Sliders: Use chunky cranberry sauce instead of smooth. This adds texture and helps prevent the bottoms from becoming too wet during baking.
• Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the sliders in the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-browning. You want a golden color without burnt edges.
• Customize the Topping: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings for the butter glaze. Garlic powder or fresh herbs can add a delicious twist to your Turkey Cranberry Sliders.
Turkey Cranberry Sliders Recipe FAQs
What type of rolls should I use for the sliders?
For the best results, I recommend using Hawaiian Sweet Rolls. Their soft, slightly sweet nature perfectly complements the savory turkey and tart cranberry sauce. If you can’t find them, any soft slider bun will work as a substitute!
How can I store leftover sliders?
You can store leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can these sliders be frozen?
Absolutely! For longer storage, wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap and place them into a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated thoroughly.
How do I prevent soggy bottoms when making these sliders?
To avoid soggy bottoms, always opt for chunky cranberry sauce instead of smooth to add texture. Additionally, ensure you don’t overload the sliders with too much sauce, as this can lead to excessive moisture during baking.
Can I customize the ingredients for dietary needs?
The beauty of these Turkey Cranberry Sliders is their versatility! You can easily swap turkey for sliced ham or roast beef for different flavor profiles. Additionally, feel free to use dairy-free cheese alternatives if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Is there a way to make the sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the sliders up to the butter glaze step, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it super convenient for parties, allowing you to prep in advance and bake them just before serving.
Savory Turkey Cranberry Sliders You’ll Love to Share
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather your ingredients and a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Lightly grease your baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
- Slice the Hawaiian Sweet Rolls horizontally as one connected piece.
- Layer the bottom half of the rolls in the baking dish with sliced turkey breast, followed by cheese.
- Spoon a layer of chunky cranberry sauce over the cheese evenly.
- Place the top half of the rolls back on top and press gently to secure the filling.
- Whisk together melted butter and everything bagel seasoning; brush it over the rolls.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until tops are golden brown.
- Let them cool slightly before slicing along their natural seams.
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