Cranberry Turkey Sliders

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful meal idea, these Cranberry Turkey Sliders are just the ticket! Imagine sinking your teeth into warm, buttery rolls filled with savory turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and creamy cheese. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these sliders can make any occasion feel special.

What I love most about these Cranberry Turkey Sliders is how they bring everyone together around the table. They’re perfect for game days, holiday parties, or even just a cozy dinner at home. Trust me; once you try them, you’ll be making them again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: These sliders are sure to please both kids and adults alike. Who can resist that combination of flavors?
• Make-ahead option: Prep them earlier in the day and pop them in the oven right before serving—easy peasy!
• Flavorful layers: The mix of turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese creates a delicious harmony that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this recipe. You likely have many of these already in your pantry! Let’s gather everything we need for our Cranberry Turkey Sliders.

For the Sliders:

• 1 pound thick-cut deli turkey or chicken ham
• 6 large slices Swiss or Provolone cheese
• 1 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 package Hawaiian Dinner Rolls (12 count)

For the Butter Mixture:

• 2 1/2 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 1 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
• 1 teaspoon Poppy Seeds
• 2-3 cloves garlic (minced)

Variations

The beauty of these sliders is their flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use rotisserie chicken or even grilled veggies for a vegetarian option.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor.
• Add some greens: Layer in some spinach or arugula for an extra crunch and freshness.
• Experiment with sauces: Swap out cranberry sauce for apple chutney or a spicy aioli to switch up the flavor profile.

How to Make Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential as it ensures that your sliders bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Assemble the Sliders

Cut the Hawaiian rolls in half without separating them completely. Lay down an even layer of turkey on the bottom half. Spread that luscious cranberry sauce over the turkey and top it off with slices of Swiss or provolone cheese. Place the top half of the rolls back on—this creates layers of flavor everyone will love!

Step 3: Prepare the Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, combine melted butter with minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds. This mixture adds flavor and helps create that irresistible golden crust on top of your sliders. Brush it generously over the bread for maximum goodness!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover your assembled sliders with foil and bake them for about 12 minutes. After that time, remove the foil and let them bake for another 10-12 minutes until they’re beautifully browned on top. Keep an eye on them during this time—nobody likes burnt sliders!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once they’re done baking, take them out and let them cool slightly before serving. Slice along the roll lines if needed, then watch as everyone digs in happily! These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Making these cranberry turkey sliders is a breeze, but a few simple tips can take your dish from great to spectacular!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for freshly made or high-quality deli turkey and cranberry sauce. Freshness enhances flavor and texture, making your sliders irresistible.

• Butter the Rolls Generously: Don’t skimp on the butter mixture! A generous amount will keep the rolls moist and add a delightful richness that complements the turkey and cheese.

• Experiment with Cheese: While Swiss and provolone are fantastic options, feel free to swap in your favorite cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a unique twist that adds more flavor depth.

• Let Them Rest Before Serving: After baking, allow the sliders to cool for a few minutes before cutting them apart. This helps the layers set and makes for neater servings.

• Make Ahead for Convenience: Prep the sliders in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes it easy to whip up a delicious meal on busy nights!

How to Serve Cranberry Turkey Sliders

These cranberry turkey sliders are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering. With a few creative touches, you can present them beautifully and make every bite memorable.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Cranberry Sauce Drizzle: Add an extra drizzle of cranberry sauce on each slider just before serving for an eye-catching presentation and added flavor.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the savory sliders, making them an excellent choice.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette adds freshness and balances out the richness of the sliders.
• Vegetable Platter: An assortment of crunchy veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers served with hummus provides a healthy crunch that complements your meal.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings in some crunchiness while also adding a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the sliders.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your cranberry turkey sliders will be sure to impress at any gathering! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are perfect for meal prep, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. You can whip them up ahead of time and enjoy their deliciousness whenever you like!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• If you have extra cranberry sauce, keep it in a separate container for best flavor retention.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months—perfect for quick meals later!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 350F (175C).
• Bake for about 20-25 minutes covered with foil until heated through.
• For refrigerated leftovers, bake for 10-15 minutes until warm and melty.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cranberry Turkey Sliders!

Can I use other types of bread for my Cranberry Turkey Sliders?

Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls add a sweet touch, you can substitute them with any soft slider bread or even whole grain rolls if you prefer.

How can I make my Cranberry Turkey Sliders healthier?

To make these sliders healthier, consider using low-fat cheese and whole grain rolls. You can also add fresh spinach or arugula for a nutritious boost.

Can I prepare the Cranberry Turkey Sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the sliders and store them in the fridge before baking. Just brush the butter mixture on before popping them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy them.

What other toppings can I add to my Cranberry Turkey Sliders?

Feel free to get creative! Sliced avocado, baby spinach, or even jalapeños can add a fun twist to your sliders while keeping the flavors balanced.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give these Cranberry Turkey Sliders a try! They’re not just delicious but also versatile and convenient for any occasion. Perfect as appetizers or a cozy family meal, you’ll love how easy they come together. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family—it’s bound to become a favorite!