Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe

There's nothing like the savory-sweet combination of Cranberry Turkey Sliders to bring a crowd together. These mini sandwiches are perfect for transforming your leftover turkey into a delicious bite-sized treat that everyone will love. The soft rolls, juicy turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and melted cheese create the ultimate comfort food experience.

I first whipped up this recipe after Thanksgiving when I was looking for a fun way to use leftovers. Now, it's a year-round favorite, especially for game days, potlucks, and casual family dinners. Let's dive into why these sliders are a must-try!

Why You'll Love These Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Get ready to meet your new go-to recipe for quick and easy sliders. These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are as versatile as they are mouthwatering.

First, they’re ridiculously simple to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick assembly process, you’ll have a tray of sliders ready for the oven in no time. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking for a casual weeknight dinner, these sliders come together in under 30 minutes.

Second, they’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender turkey, gooey melted cheese, and tart cranberry sauce is a flavor match made in heaven. Even picky eaters can’t resist their charm!

Another reason to love this recipe? It’s budget-friendly. Repurposing leftover turkey and cranberry sauce saves money while creating a fresh and exciting meal. Pair these with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, and you’ve got a winning recipe.

Finally, these sliders are incredibly adaptable. Whether you want to swap out the cheese or experiment with different sauces, the possibilities are endless. Don’t be surprised if they become a staple in your recipe rotation!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these Cranberry Turkey Sliders lies in their simplicity. Here’s a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish shine:

• Slider Rolls: Soft, sweet rolls like Hawaiian rolls are perfect for this recipe. Their slightly sweet flavor complements the tanginess of the cranberry sauce and richness of the turkey.
• Turkey: Leftover turkey works beautifully, but deli turkey can also be used. Slice or shred it to fit neatly onto the rolls.
• Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce adds a burst of flavor that balances the savory turkey and cheese. Use homemade or store-bought; both work wonderfully.
• Cheese: Melty cheeses like Swiss or provolone are ideal. They create a creamy, gooey layer that ties all the flavors together.
• Butter and Seasoning: A buttery glaze with garlic powder, dried parsley, and a touch of Dijon mustard takes these sliders to the next level.

You’ll also need a baking dish or sheet pan to assemble and bake the sliders to golden perfection.

How To Make These Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Making these sliders is quick and straightforward, perfect for any skill level. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating these irresistible sandwiches:

1. Prepare the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Slice the slider rolls in half horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms connected. Place the bottom half of the rolls in a greased baking dish.
2. Layer the Ingredients: Start with a layer of sliced turkey, evenly distributing it across the rolls. Spread cranberry sauce generously over the turkey, ensuring each slider gets a sweet and tangy punch. Add a layer of Swiss cheese on top.
3. Top with Rolls: Carefully place the top half of the slider rolls over the cheese.
4. Add the Butter Glaze: Melt butter in a small bowl and mix in garlic powder, dried parsley, and Dijon mustard. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the rolls.
5. Bake to Perfection: Cover the sliders with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Let the sliders cool for a few minutes before slicing them apart. Serve warm and watch them disappear!

Storage Options

These sliders are just as delightful the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the sliders in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. If frozen, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are endlessly customizable! Here are a few fun ideas to make them your own:

1. Swap the Meat: No turkey? No problem! Use shredded chicken, ham, or roast beef for a delicious twist.
2. Try a Different Cheese: Experiment with sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even brie for a unique flavor profile.
3. Make It Spicy: Add a drizzle of sriracha or a few slices of pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick.
4. Go Gourmet: Include a layer of arugula or caramelized onions for an elevated slider experience.
5. Change the Sauce: Use orange marmalade, fig jam, or barbecue sauce in place of cranberry sauce for a fun variation.

Don’t be afraid to get creative – these sliders are a blank canvas for your favorite flavors!

There you have it: a simple, flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, watching the big game, or just craving something delicious, these Cranberry Turkey Sliders are guaranteed to hit the spot. What will you pair them with? Let me know in the comments below!

Print