Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe

Name: Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 slider rolls, split; 1 lb cooked turkey, sliced; 1 cup cranberry sauce; 6 slices of cheese (Swiss or your choice); 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Published: Nov 19, 2024 · Modified: Nov 19, 2024 by recipesee · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

There's nothing quite like the sweet and savory combination of Cranberry Turkey Sliders to elevate your leftover turkey game. These mini sandwiches feature tender turkey slices, a generous dollop of tangy cranberry sauce, and melty cheese, all nestled in soft, buttery slider buns.

The first time I made these sliders was after a bustling Thanksgiving weekend, staring at a fridge full of leftovers. What started as a way to clear space in the fridge quickly became a must-have tradition. Now, whether it’s a holiday celebration or a random weeknight, these sliders make any meal feel special.

Ready to transform your turkey leftovers into something unforgettable? Let's dive into what makes these Cranberry Turkey Sliders so irresistible.

Why You’ll Love These Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite way to use up turkey. These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are bursting with flavors and textures that will have you reaching for seconds.

First off, they’re incredibly easy to make. You only need about 15 minutes of prep time, making these sliders perfect for when you’re in a hurry or simply don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen. They're great for feeding a hungry crowd, too!

The combination of flavors is simply unbeatable. The savory turkey pairs perfectly with the tartness of the cranberry sauce and the creamy, melted cheese. And let’s not forget the buttery, golden-brown slider buns brushed with a savory garlic and herb topping – pure heaven!

These sliders are also highly versatile. Whether you want to add a spicy kick with jalapeños or make them more kid-friendly with a mild cheese, there’s a version for everyone.

And did I mention how perfect these are for parties? Serve them as an appetizer or a main course, and watch them disappear in minutes. From game days to family gatherings, these sliders are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Cranberry Turkey Sliders comes from simple, delicious ingredients that work together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

Slider Buns: Soft and fluffy buns work best. Hawaiian rolls are a popular choice because their slight sweetness complements the cranberry sauce. You can also use any mini brioche buns if you prefer something more buttery.

Cooked Turkey: This recipe is ideal for leftover turkey, but you can also use store-bought sliced turkey for convenience. Dark or white meat both work well – just shred or slice it to your preference.

Cranberry Sauce: Use your favorite homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce. The tart and sweet flavors balance the savory turkey perfectly, making each bite exciting.

Cheese: Swiss cheese melts beautifully and adds a mild, creamy flavor. However, you can also use cheddar, provolone, or any cheese you love. Just make sure it melts well.

Garlic Butter Topping: A mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, and dried herbs (like thyme or rosemary) brushed on top of the buns gives them a golden, flavorful crust. Trust me – this step takes these sliders from good to unforgettable.

If you have any special equipment, like a large baking dish or a pastry brush for the garlic butter, have them handy. It will make assembly a breeze!

How to Make These Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Creating these mouthwatering Cranberry Turkey Sliders is easier than you think. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get you started.

Step 1: Prepare the Buns
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice your slider buns in half horizontally, but keep them connected for easier assembly. Place the bottom half of the buns in a large baking dish.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Spread an even layer of shredded or sliced turkey over the buns. Next, add generous dollops of cranberry sauce on top of the turkey, making sure to spread it out evenly. Layer slices of Swiss cheese over the cranberry sauce. Finally, place the top half of the buns over the cheese.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in minced garlic and dried herbs (like thyme or rosemary) until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Use a pastry brush to generously brush this mixture over the top of the buns. This step gives the sliders an irresistible golden-brown finish.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow the tops to get golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let the sliders cool slightly before slicing them apart. Serve warm, and watch as everyone digs in! They’re delicious as is, but feel free to add a side of chips, a simple salad, or some extra cranberry sauce for dipping.

Storage Options

Have leftovers? No problem. These Cranberry Turkey Sliders store beautifully for quick meals throughout the week.

Refrigeration: Place leftover sliders in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them from getting soggy, consider placing a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture.

Freezing: You can also freeze the sliders before baking. Assemble them in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the baking instructions.

Reheating: To reheat, place the sliders in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave them, but the buns won’t be as crispy.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is so adaptable that you can customize it to your liking. Here are a few ideas:

Add Some Heat: If you like a bit of spice, add thin slices of jalapeño or a drizzle of hot honey to the sliders. It adds a fun, spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the cranberry sauce.

Switch Up the Cheese: While Swiss is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Sharp cheddar will add a bold flavor, while mozzarella will make the sliders extra gooey.

Vegetarian Option: Swap out the turkey for roasted veggies, like butternut squash or portobello mushrooms. The cranberry sauce and cheese still shine in this meatless version.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free slider buns to make this recipe accessible for everyone. Just keep an eye on them as they may bake a little differently.

No matter how you customize your sliders, have fun and make them your own. Experimenting in the kitchen is part of the joy of cooking!

Enjoy these Cranberry Turkey Sliders and bring some holiday cheer to any meal of the year. Happy cooking!