Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Looking for a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish to celebrate the holidays or to enjoy any cozy gathering? Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders are the perfect mix of sweet and savory, combining the richness of melted cheese with tangy cranberry sauce and savory turkey, all nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls. Topped with a buttery, herbed glaze, these sliders are easy to make, perfect for using up leftover turkey, and are guaranteed to be a hit. Here’s a complete recipe to help you create these mouth-watering sliders that are as delightful to prepare as they are to eat!

Ingredients:

  • 1 (16 oz) package Hawaiian rolls (12 count)
  • 1 lb deli turkey, sliced (or use leftover turkey)
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce (jellied or whole berry)
  • 6 slices Havarti or Provolone cheese
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons minced dried onion
  • 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
  • 2 teaspoons fresh minced chives

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and to ensure the sliders come out effortlessly.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
Without separating the Hawaiian rolls, slice them horizontally, keeping the top and bottom halves intact. Place the bottom half into the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Add the Turkey
Layer the sliced turkey evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. You can use deli turkey or, for an even richer taste, substitute leftover roasted turkey from a holiday meal.

Step 4: Spread Cranberry Sauce
Evenly spread 1 cup of cranberry sauce over the turkey layer. Use either jellied or whole berry cranberry sauce, depending on your preference.

Step 5: Layer the Cheese
Place 6 slices of Havarti or Provolone cheese on top of the cranberry sauce, covering the entire area to ensure each slider gets a gooey, cheesy bite. These cheeses are ideal as they melt beautifully, but feel free to substitute with other mild, creamy cheeses like Swiss or Monterey Jack.

Step 6: Top with Rolls
Place the top half of the rolls back over the cheese, pressing down gently to compact the layers.

Step 7: Make the Butter Topping
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced dried onion, poppy seeds, and fresh chives. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of ingredients. This herbed butter mixture adds an incredible depth of flavor and creates a golden, crispy finish.

Step 8: Brush the Topping
Generously brush the butter mixture over the tops of the rolls, ensuring even coverage. This step is crucial for getting that irresistible, buttery crust.

Step 9: Bake the Sliders
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes. This step warms the turkey, melts the cheese, and allows the flavors to meld. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes to let the tops of the rolls brown slightly, creating a toasty finish.

Step 10: Serve Warm
Once the tops are golden brown, remove the sliders from the oven. Serve them warm to experience the full cheesy, savory, and slightly sweet flavor combination.

Variation

  • Turkey Alternatives: Try smoked turkey or ham for a slightly different flavor. Smoked meats add a rich, robust taste that pairs beautifully with cranberry and cheese.
  • Cheese Options: Substitute with Swiss, Gouda, or cheddar for a unique flavor twist.
  • Herb and Spice Additions: For a seasonal touch, sprinkle a dash of rosemary or thyme into the butter topping. A teaspoon of maple syrup in the butter topping adds a hint of sweetness that complements the cranberry sauce.

Cooking Note:

Ensure the butter mixture is evenly brushed over the sliders to achieve an optimal buttery crust. If you prefer a crispier top, allow the sliders to bake uncovered a few extra minutes after the initial baking time.

Serving Suggestions:

Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders are best enjoyed warm, making them perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even a casual main dish. Pair them with a light side like a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a warm soup. For an extra festive touch, serve with a side of sweet potato fries or a holiday-inspired cranberry chutney.

Tips:

  • Leftover-Friendly: This recipe is ideal for using up Thanksgiving turkey leftovers, adding a unique twist to post-holiday meals.
  • Sweet and Savory Balance: A teaspoon of maple syrup in the butter topping enhances the sliders’ flavor profile with a touch of sweetness.
  • For Extra Flavor: A sprinkle of rosemary in the butter topping adds a cozy, holiday aroma and taste.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information:

  • Calories: Approximately 260 per slider
  • Protein: 9g
  • Sodium: 420mg

FAQs

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders up to 1 day in advance. Simply cover them tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. Brush the butter topping over them just before baking for optimal freshness.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! These sliders freeze well. Wrap them individually in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through.

What’s the best way to keep sliders warm for a gathering?
If serving at a gathering, keep the sliders warm by covering them loosely with foil and setting them on a warming tray or in a low-temperature oven (about 200°F).

Can I add extra ingredients?
Absolutely! Try adding sliced avocado, caramelized onions, or a sprinkle of crumbled bacon for additional flavor.

Conclusion

Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders are a delightful addition to any meal, from festive holiday gatherings to cozy family dinners. Their combination of savory turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, creamy cheese, and buttery topping is bound to make them a hit. Whether you’re using up leftovers or creating a new family favorite, these sliders are versatile, easy to make, and endlessly customizable. So gather your ingredients and enjoy these warm, melty sliders as you celebrate the season!

Print
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Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders


  • Author: Imili Johnson
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (16 oz) package Hawaiian rolls (12 count)
  • 1 lb deli turkey, sliced (or use leftover turkey)
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce (jellied or whole berry)
  • 6 slices Havarti or Provolone cheese
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons minced dried onion
  • 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
  • 2 teaspoons fresh minced chives

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and to ensure the sliders come out effortlessly.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
Without separating the Hawaiian rolls, slice them horizontally, keeping the top and bottom halves intact. Place the bottom half into the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Add the Turkey
Layer the sliced turkey evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. You can use deli turkey or, for an even richer taste, substitute leftover roasted turkey from a holiday meal.

Step 4: Spread Cranberry Sauce
Evenly spread 1 cup of cranberry sauce over the turkey layer. Use either jellied or whole berry cranberry sauce, depending on your preference.

Step 5: Layer the Cheese
Place 6 slices of Havarti or Provolone cheese on top of the cranberry sauce, covering the entire area to ensure each slider gets a gooey, cheesy bite. These cheeses are ideal as they melt beautifully, but feel free to substitute with other mild, creamy cheeses like Swiss or Monterey Jack.

Step 6: Top with Rolls
Place the top half of the rolls back over the cheese, pressing down gently to compact the layers.

Step 7: Make the Butter Topping
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced dried onion, poppy seeds, and fresh chives. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of ingredients. This herbed butter mixture adds an incredible depth of flavor and creates a golden, crispy finish.

Step 8: Brush the Topping
Generously brush the butter mixture over the tops of the rolls, ensuring even coverage. This step is crucial for getting that irresistible, buttery crust.

Step 9: Bake the Sliders
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes. This step warms the turkey, melts the cheese, and allows the flavors to meld. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes to let the tops of the rolls brown slightly, creating a toasty finish.

Step 10: Serve Warm
Once the tops are golden brown, remove the sliders from the oven. Serve them warm to experience the full cheesy, savory, and slightly sweet flavor combination.

Notes

Ensure the butter mixture is evenly brushed over the sliders to achieve an optimal buttery crust. If you prefer a crispier top, allow the sliders to bake uncovered a few extra minutes after the initial baking time.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: Approximately 260 per slider
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Protein: 9g

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