If you’re searching for the perfect bite-sized treat that bursts with cozy holiday vibes and irresistible flavors, this Turkey Cranberry Sliders Recipe is your new best friend. Combining tender sliced turkey, creamy Havarti cheese, and a luscious whole berry cranberry sauce, all nestled between soft Hawaiian rolls and topped with a buttery, slightly sweet glaze, these sliders deliver an unforgettable harmony of savory, sweet, and tangy. They come together in just 30 minutes, making them ideal for festive gatherings, quick dinners, or anytime you want to impress with minimal fuss and maximum taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each one playing a special role in creating a classic balance of flavors and textures. The Hawaiian rolls bring soft sweetness, while the cranberry sauce adds a zingy freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich turkey and creamy cheese.
- Hawaiian rolls (12 slices): Soft and slightly sweet rolls that form the perfect slider base, adding a tender texture that complements the fillings.
- Sliced turkey breast (8 ounces): Lean and flavorful protein that keeps the sliders hearty without overwhelming the palate.
- Havarti cheese, sliced (8 ounces): Creamy and mild-melting cheese that adds a luscious texture and subtle buttery notes.
- Whole berry cranberry sauce (½ cup): Adds bright, fruity bursts of tartness that brighten every bite.
- Butter, melted (¼ cup): Provides a rich, golden crust and carries the flavors of the seasoning mix beautifully.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Adds a tangy kick and depth that balances the sweetness of the rolls and cranberry sauce.
- Brown sugar (2 teaspoons): Brings a subtle caramel sweetness that enhances the buttery topping.
- Everything bagel seasoning (1 teaspoon): A savory sprinkle that imparts a delightful crunch and a mix of garlic, onion, and sesame flavors on top.
- Worcestershire sauce (½ teaspoon): Adds an umami boost that rounds out the rich flavors.
How to Make Turkey Cranberry Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Kick off the process by setting your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet to ensure the sliders won’t stick. Preheating properly guarantees that your sliders cook evenly and develop that gorgeous golden finish.
Step 2: Slice the Rolls
Carefully slice the entire package of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. This will give you a perfect top and bottom half to hold all the delicious layers inside. Taking your time here ensures clean layers that stack beautifully.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
Layer the bottom half of the rolls in your prepared baking dish. Next, lay down the sliced turkey evenly across the buns, creating a hearty foundation. On top of the turkey, arrange the Havarti cheese slices, then spread the whole berry cranberry sauce thoroughly over the cheese. Finish by placing the top layer of rolls on top, gently pressing them down to keep everything snug.
Step 4: Make the Butter Topping
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, everything bagel seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined. This flavorful butter blend is the secret to a beautifully browned, tasty crust that enhances the sliders’ overall profile.
Step 5: Dress the Rolls
Drizzle the butter mixture evenly over the tops of the sliders. Don’t be shy—the more even the coverage, the richer the finish. This step helps create that iconic golden-brown color and adds a burst of savory, sweet, and tangy flavor with every bite.
Step 6: Bake the Sliders
Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for about 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sliders are heated through. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 5 minutes to let the tops crisp up perfectly. This two-step baking creates a melt-in-your-mouth interior paired with a slightly crunchy, golden topping.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Carefully take the sliders out from the oven and slice if desired. These are best enjoyed warm, straight from the baking dish, while the cheese is melty and the cranberry sauce juicy. But don’t worry if you have leftovers; they still taste great later!
How to Serve Turkey Cranberry Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a few thinly sliced green onions add a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the sliders. For a festive touch, consider adding a rosemary sprig on the side, subtly enhancing both aroma and presentation.
Side Dishes
These sliders pair beautifully with crispy sweet potato fries, a simple mixed green salad, or even a creamy coleslaw to add a contrasting crunch. The richness of the turkey and cheese calls for sides that are fresh and light, letting the sliders be the star of the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
To elevate your Turkey Cranberry Sliders Recipe for a party, consider serving them on a wooden board garnished with fresh cranberries and cluster the sliders tightly together for a communal feel. You can also add mini decorative toothpicks or colorful cocktail picks to keep each slider neatly together while adding a fun visual element.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After cooling the sliders to room temperature, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them a great option for next-day lunches or snacks.
Freezing
You can freeze these sliders by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or placing them in a freezer-safe container. Keep them frozen for up to 1 month for best quality. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftover sliders in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, uncovered, to restore their melty cheese and crispy tops. Microwaving works in a pinch but won’t preserve the buttery crust as well, so the oven is your best bet for taste.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Havarti melts beautifully with a mild, buttery flavor, you can swap it for Swiss, mozzarella, or provolone if you prefer. Each will give a slightly different twist but remain delicious.
Is it possible to make these vegan?
To create a vegan version, substitute the turkey with a plant-based deli slice, use vegan cheese, and swap butter with vegan margarine or olive oil. Use a vegan-friendly cranberry sauce to keep the flavors vibrant.
How spicy are these sliders?
These sliders have no added heat since the recipe focuses on savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. If you want to add a kick, consider adding a thin spread of spicy mustard or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter topping.
Can I prepare this sandwich without baking?
While you can assemble the sliders without baking for a cold sandwich, baking helps melt the cheese and blend the flavors beautifully. The warm, golden crust makes these sliders especially irresistible.
What occasion is best for serving these sliders?
Turkey Cranberry Sliders Recipe shines during holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving or Christmas, but they’re also fantastic for game day parties, potlucks, or simple weeknight dinners. Their crowd-pleasing flavors and ease of preparation make them perfect for many occasions.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and festive about this Turkey Cranberry Sliders Recipe, from the harmonious blend of flavors to the soft, buttery rolls that hold everything together. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a cozy meal, these sliders are guaranteed to delight. Give them a try at your next gathering—you might just find your new favorite go-to recipe!
Print
Turkey Cranberry Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Turkey Cranberry Sliders are a delightful combination of tender turkey breast, creamy Havarti cheese, and tangy whole berry cranberry sauce sandwiched between sweet Hawaiian rolls. Finished with a savory butter topping seasoned with Dijon mustard, brown sugar, everything bagel seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce, these sliders are perfect for quick gatherings, game days, or a flavorful snack. Baked to golden perfection, they offer a warm, melty, and satisfying bite every time.
Ingredients
Sliders
- 12 slices Hawaiian rolls
- 8 ounces sliced turkey breast
- 8 ounces Havarti cheese, sliced
- ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce
Butter Topping
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon everything bagel seasoning
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish or rimmed baking sheet to prevent the sliders from sticking during baking.
- Slice the rolls: Carefully cut the package of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally to create a top layer and a bottom layer, ensuring even halves for perfect assembly.
- Assemble the sliders: Place the bottom half of the rolls in the prepared baking dish. Layer the sliced turkey evenly over these bottom buns, followed by the Havarti cheese slices. Spread the whole berry cranberry sauce over the cheese as evenly as possible. Top with the upper half of the rolls to form complete sandwiches.
- Prepare the butter topping: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, everything bagel seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
- Dress the sliders: Drizzle the prepared butter mixture evenly over the tops of the assembled sliders, ensuring they are well-coated for a flavorful and golden finish when baked.
- Bake the sliders: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sliders are heated through. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to achieve a golden brown crust on top.
- Serve hot: Carefully remove the sliders from the oven, slice if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy them fresh for the best flavor; leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for a short period.
Notes
- You can substitute Havarti cheese with other melting cheeses like Swiss or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Use low-sugar or fresh cranberry jam if you prefer a less sweet option.
- To make the sliders ahead, assemble them without the butter topping and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.
- These sliders pair well with a simple green salad or crispy potato chips for a complete meal.
