Turkey Cranberry Sliders

If you’re looking for a cozy, delicious dish that can turn any busy weeknight into a special occasion, then Turkey Cranberry Sliders are just what you need! These little gems combine the comforting flavors of leftover turkey and tangy cranberry sauce, all nestled between sweet Hawaiian rolls. They’re super simple to make and are perfect for family dinners or even as an appetizer at your next gathering. Trust me, once you try these sliders, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen.

What makes this recipe extra special is how it brings together familiar holiday flavors in a fun and easy-to-eat format. Whether it’s for a quick lunch or a festive treat at parties, these sliders will surely win over everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to go!
• Family-friendly: The sweet and savory flavors make these sliders appealing to kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead option: Prep them ahead of time and bake when you’re ready. Perfect for busy days!
• Versatile: Great for leftovers but tasty enough to serve at any gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need to create these delightful Turkey Cranberry Sliders!

For the Sliders

• 12 Hawaiian rolls
• 3 cups shredded turkey (12 ounces)
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 4 ounces provolone cheese (6 slices)

For the Glaze

• 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon everything bagel seasoning

Variations

One of the best things about these Turkey Cranberry Sliders is their flexibility! You can easily adapt them to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.

• Swap the cheese: Use mozzarella or cheddar if provolone isn’t your favorite.
• Add veggies: Throw in some fresh spinach or arugula for an extra crunch.
• Change up the sauce: Try using a different type of sauce like apple chutney for a fun twist.
• Make them spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for some heat!

How to Make Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350˚F. This step ensures that your sliders cook evenly and get that golden brown finish we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, and dijon mustard. This glaze adds a lovely richness and sweetness that enhances the flavors of the sliders. Set this aside while you assemble everything else.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Cut the sweet Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Lay the bottoms of the rolls in a baking dish. Start by covering them with shredded turkey—this is where all that leftover goodness shines! Then, dollop on cranberry sauce in an even layer before laying down slices of cheese on top. This layering creates gooey deliciousness with every bite!

Step 4: Apply the Glaze

Place the tops back on the rolls and brush your delicious glaze over them generously. If you want maximum flavor, consider cutting between each sandwich before glazing so it seeps into every nook and cranny! Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning for an added crunch.

Step 5: Bake Away!

Pop those sliders into your preheated oven and bake for about 18-22 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the cheese is melted, and the tops of the rolls are beautifully golden brown—just fantastic!

And there you have it! Your Turkey Cranberry Sliders are ready to be devoured—perfectly warm, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying! Enjoy every mouthful with family or friends; I promise they won’t last long!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Making the perfect Turkey Cranberry Sliders is all about those little touches that elevate the dish. Here are some handy tips to help you create sliders that will impress everyone at your table!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh rolls, turkey, and cranberry sauce will enhance the flavors of your sliders. Quality ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Customize your cheese: While provolone is delicious, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor profile to the dish.
• Let the sliders rest: After baking, allow the sliders to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps set the layers and makes them easier to cut and handle.
• Add extra toppings: Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil inside the sliders for an added burst of flavor. A sprinkle of herbs not only enhances taste but also adds a pop of color.
• Make them ahead of time: You can assemble the sliders a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This saves time and makes hosting effortless!

How to Serve Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Presentation is key when it comes to serving these delightful sliders! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, here are some ideas to make your Turkey Cranberry Sliders shine on the table.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro on top adds brightness and freshness.
• Cranberry sauce drizzle: Drizzle extra cranberry sauce over the top for an eye-catching presentation and an additional flavor boost.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast that complements the savory sliders perfectly.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance, making it an ideal side for heavier dishes.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal while enhancing the overall dining experience.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with soft sliders, making every bite satisfying.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Turkey Cranberry Sliders are sure to be a hit, no matter the occasion! Enjoy each delicious bite as you share this comfort food favorite with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Turkey Cranberry Sliders are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week. You can make them ahead of time and store or freeze them for a quick and easy meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Wrap any leftover sliders in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Assemble the sliders but do not bake them before freezing.
• Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen sliders, remove from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and cheese is melted.
• If reheating refrigerated sliders, bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Turkey Cranberry Sliders:

Can I use different cheese for Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

Absolutely! While provolone cheese adds a nice flavor, you can substitute it with mozzarella, cheddar, or any cheese you enjoy.

How can I make Turkey Cranberry Sliders ahead of time?

You can assemble the sliders completely and store them in the fridge or freeze them unbaked, which makes it easy to enjoy later!

What should I serve with Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

These sliders pair wonderfully with a simple side salad, sweet potato fries, or even some festive holiday sides like roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Turkey Cranberry Sliders! They’re not just a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey; they’re also perfect for gatherings and cozy dinners alike. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings or sides. Happy cooking!