Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe

There's nothing quite like a plate of warm, mouthwatering Cranberry Turkey Sliders to kick off the holiday season or elevate any get-together. Soft, buttery rolls, juicy turkey, and a tart cranberry sauce all come together to create handheld bites of joy that are as satisfying as they are simple to make.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe a few years back when I wanted to bring something unique yet easy to a family potluck. These sliders were an instant hit, disappearing in minutes and earning me the nickname "slider queen." Now, they’ve become a staple for game days, holiday parties, or even just a cozy weekend dinner at home.

Why You'll Love These Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to recipe for festive gatherings. These Cranberry Turkey Sliders bring together everything you want in a party food: flavor, simplicity, and that perfect balance between savory and sweet.

First off, they are incredibly easy to make. Using leftover turkey or store-bought slices, you can whip these sliders up in under 30 minutes. No stress, no fuss, just delicious results that impress.

The flavor combination is pure magic. The savory turkey pairs beautifully with the tangy-sweet cranberry sauce, while a touch of melted cheese binds everything together in the most delightful way. It's a flavor profile that’s classic yet feels exciting every time you take a bite.

These sliders are also perfect for feeding a crowd. Make a big batch in a baking dish, and you'll have an appetizer or main course that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, the ingredients are budget-friendly, so you won't have to break the bank to serve something impressive.

And finally, they offer versatility in every bite. Use different cheeses, switch up the seasonings, or make them ahead of time – these sliders adapt to whatever your schedule and taste buds need.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these Cranberry Turkey Sliders is how the simple, thoughtful ingredients come together to create something truly special. Let’s break down what makes each component shine.

The rolls are the foundation of these sliders. Soft, slightly sweet dinner rolls work best, like Hawaiian rolls or plain brioche. Their tender texture complements the juicy filling perfectly, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

For the turkey, you can use thinly sliced roasted turkey or shred up leftover Thanksgiving turkey. Both options yield delicious results, but sliced turkey gives a more sandwich-like feel, while shredded turkey feels heartier and rustic.

The cranberry sauce is where the magic happens. A homemade cranberry sauce is always a great touch, especially if you like to control the sweetness and tartness. However, if you’re short on time, a good quality canned version works just as well.

Cheese adds a creamy, melty element that ties everything together. I love using sliced Swiss cheese for its nutty, mild flavor, but mozzarella or provolone are excellent options too. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sharp cheddar can also add a tasty kick.

Finally, the buttery topping takes these sliders to the next level. A mix of melted butter, garlic powder, poppy seeds, and dried herbs brushed over the top gives the rolls a golden, flavorful crust. Trust me, this small step makes a huge difference.

How To Make These Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Making these sliders is simple and straightforward, perfect for both experienced cooks and beginners. Let’s dive into the process.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. As it warms up, carefully slice the entire package of rolls in half horizontally. Keep the rolls connected – this makes assembly a breeze. Place the bottom half in a greased 9x13 baking dish, setting aside the top half for later.

Next, layer your turkey evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Make sure each roll gets a generous portion. If you’re using shredded turkey, pack it lightly to ensure the sliders hold together nicely.

Spread a generous amount of cranberry sauce over the turkey layer. Use the back of a spoon to distribute it evenly, but don't worry if it gets a bit messy. The cranberry sauce adds moisture and a sweet, tart bite that pairs perfectly with the savory turkey.

Add slices of Swiss cheese on top of the cranberry layer. You want to cover the entire surface so that every slider has a gooey, melty center. Once you’ve arranged the cheese, place the top half of the rolls back over everything.

Now, it’s time for that irresistible buttery topping. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder, poppy seeds, and a sprinkle of dried herbs. Brush this mixture over the tops of the rolls, letting it seep into all the little nooks and crannies.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 15 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and fragrant. Let the sliders cool for a couple of minutes before serving – if you can resist!

Storage Options

Got leftovers? These Cranberry Turkey Sliders store beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or a quick snack the next day.

For short-term storage, place the sliders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Microwaving is also an option, though the rolls may lose some of their crispness.

If you want to freeze the sliders, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and then store them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven as mentioned above.

These sliders also make a great option for make-ahead meals. Assemble everything, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, just pop them in the oven and bake as directed.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. You can make so many fun variations to keep things fresh and exciting.

If you’re not a fan of Swiss cheese, try using provolone or mozzarella for a milder, gooier option. Want to add a bit of sharpness? Cheddar cheese delivers a bold flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cranberry sauce.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider spreading a thin layer of mayo or mustard on the bottom half of the rolls before adding the turkey. This adds moisture and a subtle tang that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Need to make these sliders vegetarian? Substitute the turkey with roasted vegetables like sliced butternut squash or portobello mushrooms. The cranberry and cheese combo works just as well with hearty veggies.

Feeling adventurous? You can add a touch of heat by mixing some crushed red pepper flakes into the cranberry sauce or adding thin slices of pickled jalapeño before layering the cheese.

However you choose to make them, these Cranberry Turkey Sliders are a crowd-pleaser that invites creativity and experimentation. Enjoy every savory, sweet, melty bite!

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