Whether you’re looking for the perfect appetizer for your next holiday gathering or a tasty way to use up leftover turkey, these Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders are sure to hit the spot. Combining the savory flavors of deli turkey, creamy cheese, and the sweet-tart taste of cranberry sauce, these sliders are easy to assemble and even easier to devour. Let’s dive into why these sliders are so irresistible and how to make them step-by-step.
1. Why Choose Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders?
The holidays often leave us with an abundance of leftover turkey, but even outside the holiday season, turkey is a versatile and delicious ingredient. When paired with cranberry sauce, it brings a delightful combination of savory and sweet that satisfies any craving. Add melted Havarti or Provolone cheese and a buttery, flavorful topping, and you’ve got the ultimate slider that’s perfect for any occasion.
One of the biggest advantages of these Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders is their simplicity. With just a few steps, you can prepare a dish that looks and tastes like you put in a lot of effort.
2. Ingredients Breakdown: The Star Components
To create this delicious Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders recipe, you’ll need:
- Hawaiian rolls: These sweet rolls are perfect for this recipe, adding just the right amount of sweetness to complement the turkey and cranberry sauce.
- Deli turkey: You can use freshly sliced deli turkey or leftover roasted turkey, depending on your preference.
- Cranberry sauce: Choose between jellied or whole berry cranberry sauce based on your taste. Whole berry cranberry sauce adds extra texture and a tart contrast.
- Havarti or Provolone cheese: The creamy, melty texture of these cheeses makes them ideal for this dish.
- Butter topping: Made with melted unsalted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced dried onion, poppy seeds, and minced chives, this topping adds an extra layer of flavor to the sliders.
By combining these star ingredients, you’re guaranteed a crowd-pleasing dish that people will be asking for again and again.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the sliders will cook evenly and the cheese will melt to perfection. Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Assemble the Sliders
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally in half, leaving the individual rolls connected. Place the bottom half in the prepared baking dish.
- Layer the deli turkey evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. The amount of turkey can vary depending on your taste—don’t be afraid to pile it on!
- Spread the cranberry sauce on top of the turkey. This layer not only adds moisture but also a beautiful contrast of flavors.
- Arrange the cheese slices over the cranberry sauce. The cheese will act as the glue that holds the slider together, providing that satisfying cheesy pull with each bite.
- Place the top half of the rolls over the assembled ingredients to complete the sliders.
Prepare the Butter Topping
In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced dried onion, poppy seeds, and minced chives until well combined. This mixture will give the sliders a buttery, savory glaze that elevates the flavor.
Bake the Sliders
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes. This allows the sliders to heat through while the cheese melts beautifully. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes to let the tops brown and crisp slightly.
Serve Warm
These sliders are best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven. Their gooey, cheesy interior paired with the slightly crisped top makes for a perfect bite. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a main course, these sliders are sure to be a hit.
4. Why These Sliders Are Perfect for Holidays and Gatherings
Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders are more than just a delicious recipe—they’re a versatile dish that fits effortlessly into holiday gatherings and casual family dinners. When planning a menu, it’s essential to include dishes that are both easy to prepare and sure to impress. These sliders check all the boxes:
- Simple to prepare: The ingredients are easy to find, and the assembly takes minimal effort.
- Great for feeding a crowd: One batch yields 12 sliders, making it perfect for larger gatherings or potlucks.
- Flexible with ingredients: Leftover turkey from Thanksgiving? Use it here! No leftovers? Freshly sliced deli turkey works just as well.
5. Variations on the Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders
While this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to put your own twist on these Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders:
- Switch up the cheese: While Havarti and Provolone are recommended, you can try using Swiss, Gouda, or even sharp Cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Add stuffing: For a more Thanksgiving-inspired take, add a thin layer of stuffing between the turkey and cranberry sauce.
- Experiment with toppings: Consider adding sautéed onions or even a drizzle of honey mustard to create an extra layer of flavor.
6. The Perfect Pairings for Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders
To complete your meal, consider serving these sliders with:
- Sweet potato fries: Their sweetness pairs wonderfully with the tartness of the cranberry sauce.
- Green salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the sliders.
- Roasted Brussels sprouts: The nutty flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts complements the turkey and cranberry perfectly.
7. Storing and Reheating Your Sliders
If you find yourself with leftover sliders, don’t worry! They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain their crispness.
8. Tips and Tricks for the Best Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders
- Use a serrated knife when slicing the Hawaiian rolls. This prevents squishing and keeps the rolls intact.
- Brush the butter topping generously over the rolls. It might seem like a lot, but this topping is what gives the sliders their signature flavor.
- Don’t overbake: Keep a close eye on the sliders during the second baking phase to avoid burning the tops.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the sliders up to a day in advance. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, prepare the butter topping and bake them according to the instructions.
Q: What if I don’t have Hawaiian rolls?
A: No worries! Any soft dinner roll can work in this recipe. Just make sure the rolls are slightly sweet to balance out the savory turkey and cheese.
Q: Can I freeze the sliders?
A: Yes, you can freeze the sliders before baking. Assemble them fully, then cover and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator before following the baking instructions.
Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.
10. Conclusion: Why You Need Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders in Your Recipe Arsenal
In conclusion, Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders are a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress. They combine sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors in a way that’s both satisfying and comforting. Whether you’re making these sliders for a holiday gathering, a casual dinner, or just because, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
These sliders offer the perfect blend of textures and flavors, making them a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, the recipe is flexible, allowing you to customize it to your liking. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to serve up a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
PrintCheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
Savory turkey sliders with gooey cheese, tangy cranberry sauce, and soft rolls—a perfect snack for holiday gatherings or casual parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 sliders
- Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per slider