CRANBERRY TURKEY SLIDERS

If you’re looking for a dish that captures the essence of holiday flavors, then these CRANBERRY TURKEY SLIDERS are just what you need! They’re a delightful combination of tender turkey, sweet cranberry sauce, and melty cheese all nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls. This recipe is special to me because it brings together the warmth of family gatherings and the joy of sharing good food. Whether you’re hosting a festive party or simply enjoying a cozy family dinner, these sliders will surely become a favorite!

These little bites not only taste amazing but also remind us of Thanksgiving feasts with every bite. Plus, they’re easy to whip up on busy weeknights or serve as an impressive appetizer at your next gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these sliders ready to bake in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves sliders! They’re perfect for kids and adults alike, making them ideal for any family meal.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare them ahead of time and just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of turkey, cranberry, and cheese creates a deliciously comforting flavor profile that feels festive.
• Versatile: Great for holidays, parties, or even casual dinners—these sliders fit any occasion perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make these delicious CRANBERRY TURKEY SLIDERS. You’ll find everything you need right in your local grocery store!

For the Sliders

• 16 oz package Hawaiian rolls (12 count)
• 1 lb deli turkey (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup cranberry sauce (jellied or whole berry)
• 6 slices havarti or provolone cheese

For the Topping

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons minced dried onion
• 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
• 2 teaspoons fresh minced chives

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Swap the cheese: Try using cheddar or mozzarella instead of havarti for a different cheesy flavor.
• Add veggies: Layer in some fresh spinach or arugula for an extra boost of color and nutrition.
• Change the protein: Substitute deli turkey with chicken breast or roasted vegetables for a tasty vegetarian option.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or jalapeños if you like a little heat in your sliders!

How to Make CRANBERRY TURKEY SLIDERS

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350ºF. This step is key because it ensures your sliders cook evenly and come out perfectly warm and melty. Don’t forget to spray your baking dish with cooking spray!

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

Carefully slice the Hawaiian rolls in half lengthwise. Place the bottom halves into your prepared baking dish. This will serve as the base for our delicious filling.

Step 3: Layer on the Turkey

Evenly layer the deli turkey slices across the rolls. Make sure each slider gets its fair share of turkey goodness so every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Spread the Cranberry Sauce

Now it’s time to spread that luscious cranberry sauce over the turkey. This sweet tanginess not only adds moisture but also complements the savory turkey beautifully.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Place those cheesy slices on top of the cranberry layer. The melting havarti or provolone will create that gooey texture we all love in sliders!

Step 6: Top It Off

Gently place the top bun layer onto your assembled sliders. This completes our little sandwich towers, ready to be brushed with buttery goodness!

Step 7: Prepare the Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced dried onion, poppy seeds, and chives. Generously brush this mixture across the tops of your slider buns; it adds flavor and helps them turn golden brown.

Step 8: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes. This helps heat everything through while keeping those buns soft.

Step 9: Bake Uncovered

After that time, remove the foil and bake for another 3-5 minutes until those tops are beautifully browned. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 10: Serve Immediately

Once out of the oven, serve these delightful CRANBERRY TURKEY SLIDERS immediately while they’re warm and cheesy. Enjoy each bite with family and friends—it’s pure comfort food bliss!

Pro Tips for Making CRANBERRY TURKEY SLIDERS

These delicious sliders are sure to impress, and a few pro tips can make them even better!

• Use fresh ingredients: Opting for freshly sliced turkey and homemade cranberry sauce will enhance the flavors and elevate your sliders. Fresh ingredients often provide a more vibrant taste compared to pre-packaged options.
• Customize the cheese: While havarti and provolone are great choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Each cheese brings its unique creaminess and richness that can complement the turkey and cranberry.
• Don’t skip the butter blend: The seasoned butter mixture is essential for adding moisture and flavor to the slider tops. It creates a golden, crispy finish that makes each bite irresistible.
• Make ahead of time: You can prepare these sliders in advance by assembling them and covering them tightly with foil in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld together, making your sliders even tastier when baked!
• Adjust for spice lovers: If you enjoy a little kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your butter mixture. This adds an exciting layer of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.

How to Serve CRANBERRY TURKEY SLIDERS

These CRANBERRY TURKEY SLIDERS are not only mouthwatering but also versatile in presentation. Here are some ideas on how to serve them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some additional fresh chives or parsley over the sliders before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Cranberry garnish: A small bowl of extra cranberry sauce on the side makes it easy for guests to add more if they wish, enhancing their experience.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a delightful sweetness that pairs well with the savory flavors of the sliders, providing a fun twist on traditional fries.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and seasoning, roasted Brussels sprouts bring a nice crunch and earthiness that complements the sliders beautifully.
• Green salad: A simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and lightness to balance out the richness of the buttery sliders.
• Stuffing: For those who want a true Thanksgiving experience, serve some savory stuffing on the side. It’s hearty and pairs wonderfully with turkey flavors.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your CRANBERRY TURKEY SLIDERS will be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every last bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These CRANBERRY TURKEY SLIDERS are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can assemble them ahead of time, making your holiday gatherings stress-free and enjoyable.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To keep the buns from getting soggy, you may want to separate the turkey and cheese from the rolls before storing.

Freezing

• Assemble the sliders without baking and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, label with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen sliders, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Preheat your oven to 350ºF and bake covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• If reheating leftovers, bake at 350ºF for about 10-15 minutes until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these tasty CRANBERRY TURKEY SLIDERS:

Can I use other types of cheese for CRANBERRY TURKEY SLIDERS?

Absolutely! While havarti and provolone work beautifully, feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese. Swiss or cheddar would be excellent choices too!

How do I make CRANBERRY TURKEY SLIDERS gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap out the Hawaiian rolls for gluten-free rolls or bread. There are many delicious options available that will work just as well!

Can I add other ingredients to the CRANBERRY TURKEY SLIDERS?

Of course! You can enhance your sliders by adding spinach, arugula, or even a slice of avocado. Feel free to get creative with flavors!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these CRANBERRY TURKEY SLIDERS as much as I do! They bring a delightful touch of holiday flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing for a gathering or just treating yourself, these sliders are sure to please. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!