Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Name: Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (16 oz) package Hawaiian rolls (12 count); 1 lb deli turkey, thinly sliced; 1 cup cranberry sauce (jellied or whole berry); 6 slices Havarti or provolone cheese; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard; 2 teaspoons minced dried onion; 2 teaspoons poppy seeds; 2 teaspoons fresh chives, minced

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: November 27, 2025

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Introduction to Cranberry Turkey Sliders

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself craving delightful dishes that make celebrations feel extra special. One of my favorite go-to recipes is Cranberry Turkey Sliders. These bite-sized wonders combine savory turkey with sweet cranberry sauce and gooey cheese, all nestled between soft Hawaiian rolls. If you’re juggling a busy life—whether it’s running the kids to school, managing work, or planning family gatherings—these sliders offer a simple yet impressive solution. They’re quick to whip up, ensuring you can savor the moment without stress. Trust me, your family and friends will be talking about them long after the last bite!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Turkey Sliders

You’ll adore these Cranberry Turkey Sliders for so many reasons! First, they’re effortless to prepare, making them a lifesaver for busy days. In just 40 minutes, you can serve a scrumptious dish that will impress everyone. With a burst of flavor from the tangy cranberry and melted cheese, every bite brings comfort. Plus, they’re perfect for leftovers or gatherings, ensuring you always have a delicious option on hand!

Ingredients for Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating your delicious Cranberry Turkey Sliders. Each component plays a role in achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:

Hawaiian Rolls: Soft and sweet, these rolls provide the ideal base, making every bite feel like a warm hug.
Deli Turkey: Sliced thin for easy layering, turkey offers a savory punch that complements the sweetness of cranberry sauce. Leftover turkey from your holiday feast works beautifully here!
Cranberry Sauce: Whether you choose jellied or whole berry, this ingredient adds a delightful sweetness and tang, perfect for that holiday flavor.
Havarti or Provolone Cheese: Either melting cheese adds richness and creaminess. Choose Havarti for a buttery texture or provolone for a sharp kick.
Unsalted Butter: Melted, it acts as a magical glue for all the toppings, ensuring your sliders stay moist and delicious.
Worcestershire Sauce: Just a splash enhances the depth of flavor, giving a slight tanginess to your sliders.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a zesty layer, balancing the sweetness of the cranberry sauce wonderfully.
Minced Dried Onion: A little crunch and a lot of flavor from this ingredient, which elevates the overall taste profile.
Poppy Seeds: These tiny seeds not only add visual appeal but also a subtle nutty flavor.
Fresh Chives: Minced chives lend a fresh, onion-like flavor. They’re a lovely way to brighten the dish!

Each ingredient adds its unique charm, transforming simple rolls into a spectacular treat. For exact measurements, feel free to check the bottom of the article where they’re neatly listed for printing.

How to Make Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Preheat and Prepare

To get started, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your sliders bake perfectly. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a light spray with cooking spray. This little trick helps prevent sticking. You want those sliders to slide out easily! Now, slice your Hawaiian rolls in half lengthwise, keeping the top and bottom halves connected. This way, they remain a delightful bundle of joy. Place the bottom half into the prepared baking dish. As you prep, take a moment to relish the aroma of those sweet rolls, because they’re about to become the star of your table!

Assemble the Sliders

With your rolls ready, it’s time to layer the flavors! Start by taking the thinly sliced deli turkey and placing it evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Make sure every little inch is covered; we want each bite to be packed with deliciousness. Next, spread the cranberry sauce generously over the turkey. The sweetness from the sauce is a game-changer. Now, let’s talk cheese—layer those creamy slices of Havarti or provolone on top of the cranberry sauce. This is where the magic happens! The cheese will melt beautifully and bind all those marvelous flavors. Finally, carefully place the top half of the rolls over the cheese. Your sliders are now built and ready for their flavor adventure!

Apply the Butter Mixture

Now for the secret sauce—well, not really a sauce but a buttery mix that elevates the sliders! In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced dried onion, poppy seeds, and fresh chives. Stir everything together until it’s nicely blended. This mixture will give your sliders a gorgeous golden finish. Generously brush the butter mixture over the tops of the rolls. Don’t skimp! This drizzle adds extra moisture and flavor, enhancing every bite. As you brush the tops, imagine the delicious aroma filling your kitchen. It’s hard to resist the urge to dive right in!

Bake the Sliders

It’s time to let those Cranberry Turkey Sliders bake! Cover the baking dish with foil to help the sliders steam and ensure they’re heated through. Pop the dish into your preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes. Let’s not forget about cheese; it should be perfectly melted by now. After the initial baking time is up, remove the foil and let those beauties bake for an additional 3-5 minutes. This is when the magic of browning occurs! You’ll want a lovely golden top—just enough to make your heart skip a beat. When they come out of the oven, serve them warm. Your family will be running to the table with excitement!

Tips for Success

Prep ingredients in advance for a quicker assembly.
Use leftover turkey for a tasty shortcut on busy days.
For a crispy top, broil for a minute—watch carefully!
Serve warm for the best flavor and melty cheese experience.
Feel free to mix up the cheeses—Swiss or cheddar works too!

Equipment Needed

Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal, but any similar-sized pan will do.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient quantities. Use your pantry’s standard utensils for convenience.
Mixing Bowl: A medium bowl will work for combining the butter mixture; even a large measuring cup can double as one.
Paint Brush: Perfect for applying the butter mix; a kitchen brush or spoon can also be used.
Knife: For slicing the rolls and layering ingredients; a simple kitchen knife will suffice.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Swap out turkey for grilled vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, or a plant-based turkey alternative for a delicious meatless slider.
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeño slices or a swirl of sriracha to the cranberry sauce for a delightful zing that pairs well with the savory turkey.
Sweet and Savory: Incorporate sliced apples or pears between the turkey and cranberry sauce for an added layer of flavor and texture.
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the butter mixture to enhance the aroma and taste of your sliders.
Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses, such as gouda or pepper jack, for unique flavor profiles and textures.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these sliders with a fresh green salad for a light yet satisfying meal.
Serve alongside sweet potato fries or crunchy veggies with dip for added crunch.
Offer a selection of drinks, like sparkling cider or herbal tea, to complement the flavors.
Present sliders on a festive platter garnished with fresh herbs for an eye-catching display.

FAQs about Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Can I make Cranberry Turkey Sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the sliders ahead of time and keep them in the fridge, covered, until you’re ready to bake. This option makes meal prep so much easier, especially during busy holiday gatherings!

What should I serve with these sliders?

These sliders pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, sweet potato fries, or crunchy veggies and dip. A warm bowl of soup can also complement the sliders beautifully!

Can I use a different type of bread?

While Hawaiian rolls are delightful, you can absolutely use slider buns or even whole-grain bread for a healthier twist. Just make sure they’re soft enough to hold the delicious fillings!

How do I store leftover sliders?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They usually last about 2-3 days. Just reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving again for that tasty warm experience!

Can I customize the fillings?

Yes, of course! Feel free to add other ingredients like avocado, spinach, or different cheeses. The beauty of these Cranberry Turkey Sliders is their versatility, so get creative!

Final Thoughts

The joy of making Cranberry Turkey Sliders lies not just in the delicious flavors but in the moments they create. These sliders can transform any gathering into a warm celebration of love and laughter. As you pull them from the oven, let the aroma fill your home, welcoming everyone with a hint of nostalgia and comfort. They’re not just a dish; they’re a vessel for shared memories. Whether enjoyed during the holidays or a simple weeknight meal, these sliders are sure to become a cherished family favorite. Dive in and relish each bite!