Turkey Cranberry Sliders: Easy & Delicious Recipe to Make

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The Irresistible ….

There’s a certain magic that happens when butter begins to melt in a pan, releasing the nutty, savory aroma that promises comfort. For me, that scent is forever tied to the creation of these unbelievably delicious Turkey cranberry sliders. This isn’t just about putting ingredients together; it’s about capturing the soulful flavors of a holiday feast into a single, perfect bite. My version elevates this classic by bathing sweet Hawaiian rolls in a savory poppy seed butter sauce that caramelizes in the oven, creating a delightfully crisp top and a soft, flavor-soaked interior. Let’s create something truly memorable together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A Symphony of Flavors: Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and tangy notes that dance on your palate.
• Effortlessly Elegant: These sliders look and taste gourmet, but they come together so quickly, making them perfect for any occasion.
• The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re making them for a game day or as festive party appetizers, everyone reaches for a second one. They simply vanish!
• Perfectly Versatile: A fantastic way to use up leftover holiday turkey, but equally delicious with quality deli meat any time of year.

Preparation Time and Servings

⏱️ Preparation Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
⏰ Total Time: 30-35 minutes
💡 Difficulty: Easy
👥 Servings: 12 sliders

A crowd-pleasing dish ready in about 30 minutes!

Ingredients List

For the Sliders

• 1 (12-count) package of Hawaiian sweet rolls
• 1 lb (450g) sliced deli turkey, or leftover roasted turkey
• 8 slices (about 6 oz) of Provolone or Swiss cheese
• 3/4 cup (225g) whole berry cranberry sauce

For the Savory Butter Topping

• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Assemble the Base: Without separating the individual rolls, slice the entire slab of rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottom half into your prepared baking dish.
3. Layer the Flavors: Layer the turkey evenly over the bottom buns. Place the cheese slices on top of the turkey. Spread the whole berry cranberry sauce over the cheese in an even layer. Place the top half of the rolls back on.
4. Create the Topping: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder until well combined.
5. Brush with Flavor: Gently pour the butter mixture over the top of the sliders. Use a pastry brush to ensure the topping covers the entire surface and drips down the sides. This step is key for making the most amazing Turkey cranberry sliders.
6. Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly.
7. Rest and Serve: Let the sliders rest for a few minutes before using a sharp knife to cut them into individual portions. Serve immediately while warm and gooey.

Pro Tips from a Professional Chef

• Don’t Separate the Rolls: Assembling the sliders while the rolls are still connected makes the process faster and helps them soak up the butter topping evenly. You can cut them apart after baking.
• Whole Berry is Key: Use whole berry cranberry sauce, not the jellied kind. The texture of the whole berries adds a wonderful dimension that you just don’t get from the smooth jelly.
• Let Them Rest: Giving the sliders 3-5 minutes to rest after coming out of the oven allows the cheese to set slightly, making them less messy and easier to cut and serve.
• Cheese Choice Matters: While Swiss is a classic, Provolone offers a milder, creamier melt that I find complements the turkey and cranberry perfectly without overpowering them.

Special Equipment

• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: This is the perfect size to hold a 12-pack of sliders snugly, ensuring they cook evenly and the topping stays contained.
• Silicone Basting Brush: This tool is excellent for spreading the butter topping into every nook and cranny of the rolls, guaranteeing maximum flavor in every single bite.

Variations & Substitutions

• Cheese Swap: For a richer, more decadent slider, try using creamy Brie or a nutty Havarti cheese instead of Swiss or Provolone.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter topping or a layer of spicy jalapeño jelly along with the cranberry sauce for a sweet and spicy kick.
• Herbaceous Twist: Finely chop a tablespoon of fresh rosemary or thyme and whisk it into the melted butter topping for an aromatic, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with turkey.

Serving Suggestions

These rich and savory Turkey cranberry sliders are the star of the show, but they pair wonderfully with a simple, crisp arugula salad dressed in a light lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a heartier meal, serve them alongside sweet potato fries or a creamy tomato soup. They are a fantastic option for easy and delicious party appetizers.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Proper storage is key to enjoying these delightful sliders later!

• To Store: Place any leftover sliders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To Reheat: For the best results, reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and the tops are crisp again. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the buns soggy.
• Make-Ahead: You can assemble the sliders (without the topping) up to 4 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Prepare the butter topping and store it separately. When ready to bake, pour the topping over the sliders and bake as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use leftover Thanksgiving turkey?

Absolutely! This is one of the best ways to use leftover turkey. Just shred or chop the meat and layer it in place of the deli slices. It adds an incredible depth of flavor.

Can I freeze these Turkey cranberry sliders?

Yes, you can. Assemble the sliders completely but do not bake them. Wrap the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed (you may need to add a few extra minutes to the covered baking time).

What are the best rolls to use?

King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls are the classic choice because their slight sweetness perfectly complements the savory fillings. However, any soft dinner rolls or brioche slider buns will also work well.

My rolls got soggy on the bottom. What went wrong?

This can happen if too much of the butter topping pools at the bottom or if the cranberry sauce is particularly wet. Ensure you are using whole berry sauce and try not to oversaturate the rolls with the topping- just a good, even coating is needed.

Can I make these with a different meat?

Certainly. Thinly sliced baked ham is a fantastic substitute for turkey and creates a classic sweet and savory combination with the Swiss cheese and Dijon mustard.

Conclusion

There is such profound joy in creating food that brings people together, and these Turkey cranberry sliders are pure happiness on a plate. The incredible aroma that fills your home as they bake is second only to the first bite- that perfect mix of savory, sweet, and cheesy goodness. I can’t wait for you to experience this simple magic in your own kitchen and share it with the people you love.

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