Turkey Cranberry Sliders

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful meal that brings a taste of the holidays to your table, these Turkey Cranberry Sliders are just the ticket! Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish transforms leftover turkey and cranberry sauce into something truly special. With their sweet rolls and gooey cheese, these sliders are bound to become a favorite in your home. I love how easy they are to prepare, making them an excellent choice for any occasion.

Imagine gathering around with friends or family, enjoying the warm aroma of melted cheese and savory turkey filling the air. These sliders not only taste amazing but also create wonderful memories when shared with loved ones. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious sliders ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves the combination of turkey and cranberry, making this dish a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Perfect for Leftovers: A great way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers without any fuss.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prep them in advance and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat—perfect for busy evenings!
• Delicious Flavor: The mix of sweet and savory will leave your taste buds dancing!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You might already have many of them on hand! Here’s what you’ll need to make your Turkey Cranberry Sliders:

For the Sliders

• 1 package Hawaiian Sweet Rolls (12 count)
• 2 cups diced turkey
• 1 cup cranberry sauce or relish
• 6 slices Swiss cheese (or your favorite cheese)

For the Topping

• 6 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tbsp dried minced onion
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Dried parsley (optional)

Variations

This recipe is incredibly flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or even veggie alternatives if you want to keep it plant-based!
• Change up the cheese: Try provolone or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped celery or nuts for added texture.
• Spice it up: Add some jalapeños or hot sauce if you like a little kick!

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 bake evenly and come out perfectly warm and melty.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Cover a 9×13 baking pan with foil and spray it with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 3: Prepare the Rolls

Remove the rolls from their package in one piece. Then, cut the entire slab in half lengthwise so that you have one “top” section and one “bottom” section. This helps hold all those delicious fillings together.

Step 4: Layer It Up

Place the bottom slab of rolls into your prepared pan. Next, layer on the diced turkey, spread on cranberry sauce (you may want to warm it slightly first!), and top with slices of Swiss cheese. Each bite will be bursting with flavor!

Step 5: Top It Off

Carefully place the top slab of rolls over your layered fillings.

Step 6: Make Your Butter Mixture

Melt butter in the microwave, then whisk in mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced onion, salt, and pepper. Pour this buttery goodness evenly over the rolls—this step is key for adding flavor!

Step 7: Let Them Rest

Cover the pan with foil and let everything sit for about 5-10 minutes before baking. This helps all those flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake covered for 20 minutes before uncovering and baking an additional 5 minutes until golden brown. The smell will be irresistible!

Step 9: Finish & Serve

If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese and dried parsley over top once they’re out of the oven. Slice into individual sliders while they’re still warm, serve them up, and enjoy every bite!

These Turkey Cranberry Sliders are sure to be a hit at your next meal!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Getting the most out of your Turkey Cranberry Sliders is easy with a few helpful tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for freshly cooked turkey and homemade cranberry sauce if possible. This enhances the flavors and makes the sliders taste even more delicious.
• Warm the cranberry sauce: Heating the cranberry sauce slightly before spreading it ensures that it spreads easily and melds beautifully with the turkey, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
• Customize your cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone. Each type brings its own unique flavor profile, allowing you to personalize your sliders.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Letting the assembled sliders sit for about 5-10 minutes before baking helps all the flavors combine and makes them easier to slice after cooking.
• Make ahead for convenience: Assemble your sliders ahead of time and cover them in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just pop them in the oven! This is perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

How to Serve Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Presenting your Turkey Cranberry Sliders can be just as fun as making them! Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or thyme on top before serving to add a pop of color and freshness that enhances visual appeal.
• Cranberry drizzle: A light drizzle of extra cranberry sauce on top of each slider before serving not only looks beautiful but also adds an extra burst of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries are a fantastic complement, offering a touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory turkey and tart cranberry.
• Green salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sliders.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasoned and roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini add depth and nutrition to your meal while keeping it colorful.
• Butternut squash soup: A warm bowl of creamy butternut squash soup can serve as an inviting starter that pairs beautifully with the sliders’ flavors.

These serving suggestions will elevate your Turkey Cranberry Sliders experience, making it not just a meal but an enjoyable gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Turkey Cranberry Sliders are perfect for meal prep, making them a great choice for busy weeknights or when you want to enjoy a delicious leftover dish without any hassle!

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover sliders in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To keep them fresh, you can also wrap individual sliders in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.

Freezing

• Assemble the sliders without baking, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before proceeding with baking instructions.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the sliders on a baking sheet and cover with foil to retain moisture.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. If desired, uncover for the last few minutes to crisp up the tops.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Turkey Cranberry Sliders to help you get started!

Can I use other types of bread for Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

Absolutely! While Hawaiian Sweet Rolls add a delightful sweetness, you can use any slider-sized bread, such as dinner rolls or whole grain options, depending on your preference.

How long do Turkey Cranberry Sliders last in the fridge?

When stored properly, Turkey Cranberry Sliders can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. They make for an easy and tasty lunch option!

Can I make Turkey Cranberry Sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the Turkey Cranberry Sliders and refrigerate them before baking. Just cover them appropriately and bake when you’re ready to enjoy.

What are some variations of Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

Feel free to experiment! You could add different cheese types like cheddar or pepper jack or even include spinach for extra veggies. The possibilities are endless!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Turkey Cranberry Sliders as much as I do! They’re not only a fantastic way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers, but they’re also simple enough to whip up anytime you’re craving something comforting and delicious. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and savor each warm bite. Happy cooking!