Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe

There's something undeniably festive about Cranberry Turkey Sliders. These bite-sized sandwiches perfectly capture the flavors of the holiday season, combining savory turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and melty cheese in every mouthwatering bite. Whether you're hosting a party or looking for a creative way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers, these sliders are guaranteed to be a hit.

I first made these sliders after a family gathering when I found myself staring at a pile of turkey and cranberry sauce in the fridge. Little did I know, this quick experiment would turn into a family tradition! Now, we whip these up for everything from game days to holiday parties.

Why You’ll Love These Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with these delicious sliders! Perfect for any occasion, they’re equal parts easy and impressive.

First, they’re an excellent way to repurpose leftovers. If you have extra turkey and cranberry sauce, this recipe is your ticket to a zero-waste kitchen.

Second, they’re ridiculously simple to make. With only a handful of ingredients and 20 minutes of prep, these sliders come together faster than you’d think – perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

And let’s not forget how customizable they are. From different cheeses to adding extra toppings like arugula or stuffing, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste.

Finally, they’re a crowd-pleaser. The combination of soft rolls, gooey cheese, and the sweet-tangy cranberry sauce makes these sliders an irresistible addition to any party spread.

Ready to get started? Let’s talk ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these Cranberry Turkey Sliders lies in their simplicity. A few well-chosen ingredients are all you need to create layers of flavor.

• Hawaiian Rolls: The slightly sweet flavor of Hawaiian rolls pairs beautifully with the tangy cranberry sauce. You can also use brioche or any soft dinner rolls if you prefer.
• Turkey: Whether it’s leftover roasted turkey or freshly sliced deli turkey, the key is to use thin slices for even layering. If you’re using leftovers, make sure to shred or slice them into bite-sized pieces for the best texture.
• Cranberry Sauce: Homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce works well here. The slightly tart notes add a perfect contrast to the savory turkey and rich cheese.
• Cheese: Swiss cheese is my go-to for these sliders because it melts beautifully and adds a mild nuttiness. Havarti or provolone are also great options if you want to switch things up.
• Butter and Seasonings: A mix of melted butter, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of dried herbs (like thyme or rosemary) gives the sliders a golden, flavorful finish.

Before diving into the recipe, gather a baking dish or sheet pan to keep the sliders snug while baking – this ensures they stay soft and gooey.

How To Make These Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Making Cranberry Turkey Sliders is so simple, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner! Here’s the step-by-step process to create these irresistible sandwiches.

1. Prepare the Rolls
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms intact as a sheet. Place the bottom half of the rolls in a greased or parchment-lined baking dish.
2. Layer the Ingredients
   Start with a layer of turkey, spreading it evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Next, dollop or spread cranberry sauce over the turkey. Finally, layer the Swiss cheese slices on top, covering the cranberry sauce completely.
3. Top and Season
   Place the top half of the rolls over the cheese. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder and herbs. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the rolls, ensuring every inch is coated.
4. Bake to Perfection
   Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 10-12 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve and Enjoy
   Remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Slice along the roll seams and serve warm. Watch as they disappear in seconds!

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, these Cranberry Turkey Sliders store beautifully!

• Refrigerate: Place the sliders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a low oven (about 300°F) to revive their melty, gooey texture.
• Freeze: Wrap individual sliders in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
• Meal Prep: Assemble the sliders a day ahead, cover them tightly with foil, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Brush with butter and seasonings right before they go in the oven.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are a few ideas to make these sliders your own:

• Different Meats: No turkey? No problem. These sliders work just as well with rotisserie chicken, ham, or even roast beef.
• Cheese Options: Swap Swiss cheese for gouda, cheddar, or Monterey Jack to change up the flavor profile.
• Add Veggies: Include a layer of baby spinach, arugula, or caramelized onions for added texture and flavor.
• Sweet and Spicy: Add a drizzle of hot honey or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a sweet-heat twist.
• Herb Butter Upgrade: Experiment with different herbs like parsley, sage, or oregano to customize the buttery topping.

The possibilities are endless – don’t be afraid to get creative and make these sliders uniquely yours!

With their festive flavors and easy assembly, Cranberry Turkey Sliders are the ultimate holiday treat. Whether you’re making them for a cozy family dinner or a holiday party, they’re sure to steal the show. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your own delicious twists!

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