Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe

gooey melted cheese on soft rolls – the ultimate crowd-pleaser for parties, game nights, or post-Thanksgiving feasts.

I first made these sliders after Thanksgiving one year, staring at leftover turkey and cranberry sauce in my fridge. Little did I know that a handful of simple ingredients would turn leftovers into a new family favorite! Ready to see why these sliders deserve a spot on your table? Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love These Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Get ready to fall head over heels for these sliders. They’re more than just delicious – they’re a lifesaver when you’re short on time but still want to impress.

First, they’re quick and easy to make. From start to finish, you’ll have these sliders ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for last-minute guests or a casual weeknight dinner.

Next, they’re a fantastic way to use leftovers. Have some extra turkey from a holiday meal? Pair it with a bit of cranberry sauce, and you’re halfway to creating something magical.

These sliders are kid-friendly and endlessly adaptable. Picky eaters? Swap out the cranberry sauce for barbecue or honey mustard. Want to spice it up? Add jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.

Lastly, they’re perfect for entertaining. Their bite-sized nature makes them great for finger food at gatherings, and they’re easy to make in large batches.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these Cranberry Turkey Sliders lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in delivering those bold, delicious flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

Hawaiian rolls are the perfect base for sliders. Their slight sweetness pairs beautifully with the tangy cranberry sauce and savory turkey. If you can’t find Hawaiian rolls, any soft dinner rolls will work.

Cooked turkey is the star of the show. Whether it’s shredded or sliced, make sure it’s moist and flavorful. Leftovers work wonderfully, but deli turkey is a good substitute if you’re starting from scratch.

Cranberry sauce adds a burst of tart-sweet flavor. Both homemade and canned versions work, so use what you have on hand. For an extra kick, mix in a bit of orange zest or Dijon mustard.

Cheese is the melty magic that ties everything together. Swiss is my go-to for its nutty flavor, but mozzarella or provolone are great options too.

Butter glaze gives the rolls a golden, toasty finish. A simple mix of melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley takes these sliders to the next level.

Optional toppings like baby spinach, bacon, or sliced onions can add even more flavor and texture.

Special equipment? Just a baking dish or sheet pan, and some foil to keep everything warm and melty.

How to Make These Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Making these sliders is as simple as assembling, baking, and serving. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, slice your Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the top layer intact so it’s easier to assemble.

Arrange the bottom halves of the rolls in a baking dish. Spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce over the rolls, ensuring every bite will get a burst of flavor.

Layer the turkey evenly over the cranberry sauce. Don’t worry if some pieces overlap; this adds to the texture. Next, lay the slices of cheese on top of the turkey, making sure to cover it fully for that ooey-gooey goodness.

Place the top halves of the rolls back on. Melt the butter in a small bowl and stir in the garlic powder and parsley. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the rolls.

Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 10-12 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.

Once baked, let the sliders cool for a couple of minutes before slicing into individual sandwiches. Serve them warm and watch them disappear!

Storage Options

These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are best enjoyed fresh, but they store surprisingly well if you have leftovers.

To store: Place the sliders in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To freeze: Wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge.

To reheat: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and wrap the sliders in foil. Heat them for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. For a crispier top, remove the foil for the last few minutes of baking.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of these sliders means you can easily adapt them to suit your preferences or use what you have on hand.

• Ham and Cranberry Sliders: Swap out turkey for leftover ham for a different take on holiday flavors.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a smear of chipotle mayo for some heat.
• BBQ Twist: Replace cranberry sauce with barbecue sauce for a smoky, sweet alternative.
• Veggie Version: Use roasted vegetables like zucchini and peppers in place of turkey for a vegetarian option.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with cheddar, pepper jack, or brie for a unique flavor profile.

The beauty of these sliders is that they’re hard to mess up. Get creative and discover your new favorite combination!

In conclusion, Cranberry Turkey Sliders are a recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for any occasion. Quick, easy, and endlessly customizable, they’re a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. So the next time you’re staring at leftovers or need a winning dish for your next gathering, remember this recipe – you won’t be disappointed!

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