Turkey Cranberry Sliders

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to use up leftover turkey, these Turkey Cranberry Sliders are just what you need! They’re the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight dinner or gearing up for a festive holiday gathering, these sliders will surely impress. Plus, they’re so simple to make that you’ll want to whip them up again and again!

These delightful sliders are not only tasty but also incredibly versatile. You can serve them as an appetizer during parties or as the main event for lunch or dinner. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a scrumptious meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of turkey and cranberry sauce.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them ahead of time and just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Flavorful Delight: The mix of gooey cheese with tangy cranberry is sure to satisfy your taste buds!
• Great for Leftovers: A fantastic way to enjoy leftover turkey without feeling repetitive!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Let’s gather what you need to create these mouthwatering Turkey Cranberry Sliders.

For the Sliders

• 12 Hawaiian rolls
• 3 cups shredded turkey (12 ounces)
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 4 ounces provolone cheese (6 slices)

For the Glaze

• 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon everything bagel seasoning

Variations

Feel free to get creative with these sliders! This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to mix things up based on your preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use rotisserie chicken or even shredded beef if turkey isn’t available.
• Change the cheese: Try using mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick!

How to Make Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350˚F. This ensures that the sliders bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, and dijon mustard. This glaze brings all the flavors together while adding a lovely shine to your sliders.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Cut your sweet Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves in a baking dish. Layer on the shredded turkey first, followed by an even spread of cranberry sauce. Top it off with slices of provolone cheese! This layering creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Add Toppings

Place the tops back on the rolls. Using a pastry brush, generously spread your glaze over the top and sides of each slider. If you’d like more flavor throughout, consider cutting between each sandwich before brushing on that luscious glaze.

Step 5: Bake Away!

Pop those beautifully assembled sliders into your preheated oven for about 18-22 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown—a smell that will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!

Enjoy every last bite of these Turkey Cranberry Sliders—they’re sure to become one of your new favorites!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Cranberry Sliders

These Turkey Cranberry Sliders are not only delicious but also super simple to prepare. Here are some tips to make them even better!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for freshly shredded turkey and homemade cranberry sauce if possible. This enhances the flavor and quality of your sliders, making them taste gourmet.
• Don’t Overload on Fillings: While it’s tempting to pile on the turkey and cranberry sauce, sticking to the recommended amounts ensures the sliders hold together well and are easy to eat.
• Toast the Rolls Slightly Before Assembly: Lightly toasting the Hawaiian rolls before adding fillings can give them a delightful crunch and prevents sogginess from the cranberry sauce.
• Let Them Rest After Baking: Allowing the sliders to sit for about 5 minutes after baking helps the cheese set a bit, making them easier to cut and serve without falling apart.
• Experiment with Cheese Options: While provolone is a great choice, feel free to swap in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for different flavor profiles that complement the turkey and cranberry.

How to Serve Turkey Cranberry Sliders

These sliders are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a festive holiday gathering. Here are some ideas on how to present your delicious creation!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast that brightens up each bite.
• Cranberry garnish: Placing a small bowl of extra cranberry sauce on the side allows guests to add more if they desire, enhancing their slider experience.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring a sweet-savory balance that pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the sliders.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty sliders.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots offer a comforting side that complements the dish beautifully.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and zest, making it an excellent companion that cuts through the richness of the cheese and turkey.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Turkey Cranberry Sliders will be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Turkey Cranberry Sliders are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare them ahead of time, making your weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• To prevent the rolls from getting soggy, consider storing the turkey and cranberry sauce separately from the rolls if you have leftovers.

Freezing

• For longer storage, you can freeze these sliders before baking.
• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They will last up to 2 months in the freezer. Just make sure to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat frozen sliders, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Preheat your oven to 350˚F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure they don’t get too hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Turkey Cranberry Sliders:

Can I use different types of cheese for Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

Absolutely! While provolone cheese adds a nice flavor, feel free to substitute with mozzarella or even cheddar based on your preference.

How do I make Turkey Cranberry Sliders ahead of time?

You can prepare the sliders by assembling them completely and storing them in the fridge before baking. Just cover with foil and bake when you’re ready!

What can I serve with Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

These sliders pair wonderfully with a side salad, sweet potato fries, or even a warm bowl of soup. They make for a delightful meal!

Are Turkey Cranberry Sliders good for parties?

Yes! Turkey Cranberry Sliders are perfect for parties as they’re easy to eat and full of flavor. Your guests will love them!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Turkey Cranberry Sliders as much as I do! They are a wonderful way to transform leftover turkey into something truly special. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner at home or a festive gathering with friends, these sliders are sure to delight everyone. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!