Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe

There's nothing quite like biting into a perfectly sweet and savory Cranberry Turkey Slider during the holiday season. These sliders combine tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all nestled in soft, buttery rolls – a true crowd-pleaser for parties or a cozy family dinner.

I first made these when I had leftover Thanksgiving turkey and wanted something creative yet simple. Little did I know they would become a year-round favorite, perfect for using up leftovers or as a festive treat!

Why You'll Love This Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to recipe for gatherings and weeknight cravings. These Cranberry Turkey Sliders bring flavor, convenience, and versatility to your table.

First off, they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can have these sliders prepped and baked in under 30 minutes. Perfect for when you're short on time but want something satisfying.

They're the ideal use for leftover turkey and cranberry sauce, especially after a holiday meal. No more boring reheated leftovers – these sliders transform them into something magical!

These sliders are a hit with kids and adults alike. The mix of savory turkey, sweet cranberry sauce, and melty cheese is irresistible, making them perfect for picky eaters or adventurous foodies.

Finally, they’re the perfect make-ahead option. Prep the sliders in advance, refrigerate, and pop them in the oven when ready. Whether for a holiday party or a lazy Sunday, they’re ready when you need them.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these Cranberry Turkey Sliders lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient contributes to the rich flavor and perfect texture.

Hawaiian rolls are the foundation of this recipe. Their slight sweetness complements the tartness of the cranberry sauce and the savory turkey. Any soft dinner roll will work if you don’t have Hawaiian rolls on hand.

Cooked turkey is the star protein here. Leftover roasted turkey works wonderfully, but deli-style turkey slices are a convenient alternative. If you’re in a pinch, even shredded rotisserie chicken can be used.

Cranberry sauce adds that essential tart-sweet flavor. Both homemade and canned options work great, so use what you have. If you prefer, you can even substitute it with a cranberry-orange relish for extra zest.

Cheese brings the creaminess that ties everything together. Swiss is my go-to for its mild nuttiness, but you can swap it for provolone, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor.

Butter and seasoning are the finishing touches. Melted butter mixed with garlic powder and Italian seasoning creates a golden, flavorful crust on the sliders. Don’t skip this step – it elevates the dish!

You’ll also need a baking dish and foil for easy cleanup.

How To Make This Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe

Creating these sliders is as simple as layering ingredients and baking them to golden perfection. Here’s how to do it:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it warms up, slice your Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the rolls connected. Place the bottom half in a greased baking dish.

Spread a generous layer of cranberry sauce across the bottom rolls. Don’t skimp – this sauce is what gives the sliders their signature flavor.

Next, layer on your turkey slices, ensuring even coverage. Add a layer of Swiss cheese on top of the turkey. If you love extra cheesy sliders, feel free to add a second layer of cheese!

Place the top half of the rolls over the fillings. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, a pinch of garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the rolls.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted. Let the sliders cool slightly before slicing and serving.

From start to finish, you’re looking at about 25-30 minutes – perfect for busy evenings or last-minute gatherings!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though they’re unlikely to last!), store them properly to maintain their deliciousness.

Wrap the sliders tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, preheat your oven to 325°F and warm the sliders, wrapped in foil, for about 10 minutes. This method helps retain their moisture and keeps the rolls soft.

You can also freeze the sliders for up to 2 months. Wrap each portion individually in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, bake directly from frozen at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, covered with foil.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of these Cranberry Turkey Sliders makes them endlessly customizable. Here are a few ideas:

• Swap the turkey for ham to create a holiday-inspired twist on a classic ham and cheese slider.
• Add a layer of stuffing between the turkey and cheese for a truly Thanksgiving-inspired bite.
• Use brie instead of Swiss cheese for a creamy, luxurious slider that pairs beautifully with cranberry sauce.
• Prefer a spicier kick? Add a layer of sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot honey.
• Make it vegetarian by using roasted vegetables like squash and mushrooms instead of turkey.

The possibilities are endless – feel free to experiment and make these sliders your own!

Now that you know how to make these irresistible Cranberry Turkey Sliders, it’s time to grab your ingredients and get cooking. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a cozy meal, one thing’s for sure – they’ll disappear in no time!

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