If you are craving something that balances sweet, savory, and utterly comforting, you have to try this Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders Recipe. These sliders bring together the soft, fluffy sweetness of Hawaiian rolls with tender turkey slices and melty Swiss or provolone cheese, all smothered in a buttery, flavorful poppy seed topping that bakes to golden perfection. It’s the kind of dish that feels as special as a celebration but can come together faster than you’d expect on a busy weeknight. Once you try these sliders, they will quickly become your go-to for gatherings, game days, or anytime you need a burst of delicious satisfaction in bite-sized form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders Recipe lies in its simplicity yet harmonious flavor combination. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the sweet Hawaiian rolls providing a pillow-soft base to the sharp Dijon and melted butter topping that adds an irresistible finish.
- Hawaiian sweet rolls (12, sliced in half): Their natural sweetness perfectly complements the savory fillings.
- Deli turkey (3/4 pound, sliced): Lean and flavorful protein adds heartiness without overpowering the other flavors.
- Swiss or provolone cheese (6 slices, halved): Melts beautifully, creating gooey pockets of creamy goodness.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Adds moisture and binds with mustard for a tangy spread.
- Dijon mustard (2 tablespoons): Offers a slight sharpness to balance the sweetness of the rolls.
- Melted butter (4 tablespoons): The base for the topping that crisps and flavors the tops.
- Poppy seeds (1 tablespoon): Provide a slight crunch and visual appeal.
- Minced onion (1 tablespoon): Adds subtle savory notes to the butter topping.
- Worcestershire sauce (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a hint of umami depth.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Infuses a mild garlic flavor without overpowering the palate.
How to Make Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Sauce
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and making sure your baking dish is lightly greased. This prevents sticking and helps your sliders bake evenly. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. This spread is key to adding moisture and a punch of tangy flavor that cuts through the sweetness of the rolls.
Step 2: Assemble Your Sliders
Carefully slice the Hawaiian rolls in half to create a top and bottom. Spread the mayo-mustard mixture evenly over the bottom halves. Layer the turkey slices generously, then add the halved cheese slices on top. Finally, cover everything with the top halves of the rolls, creating perfect little sandwiches lined up neatly in your baking dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Poppy Seed Butter Topping
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, poppy seeds, minced onion, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. This mixture will coat the slider tops and bake into a golden, flavorful crust that seals in all the juicy goodness inside.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Brush the butter mixture generously over the tops of the assembled sliders. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil so the cheese melts and the turkey heats through without drying out. Bake covered for 15 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 5–7 minutes until the tops become beautifully golden brown and slightly crisp.
How to Serve Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra color and freshness, sprinkle chopped scallions or fresh parsley over the sliders just before serving. You could also offer a side of pickled jalapeños or a tangy dipping sauce like honey mustard to elevate every bite.
Side Dishes
These sliders are wonderfully versatile and pair well with a fresh green salad for balance or even some classic coleslaw for crunch. If you want something more indulgent, crispy sweet potato fries or a bowl of hearty soup create a fantastic meal combo alongside the sliders.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the sliders on a large wooden board for a casual party vibe or arrange them neatly on a decorative platter for a more elegant touch. You can cut them into smaller bites for appetizers or keep them whole as satisfying individual portions. Adding small skewers or toothpicks can make them easy to pick up and eat at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover sliders in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days without losing much of their cheesiness or flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze these sliders before baking by assembling them in the baking dish, wrapping tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freezing for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding extra baking time to heat through completely.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for about 10-12 minutes covered with foil to avoid drying out. Remove the foil in the last few minutes to restore that golden crispy top. Alternatively, individual sliders can be warmed briefly in the microwave, though they won’t stay as crisp.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Swiss or provolone are traditional choices, you can swap in mozzarella, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick. Just choose a cheese that melts well to keep that gooey, irresistible texture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the turkey with your favorite grilled vegetables, marinated tofu, or even a plant-based deli substitute. The buttery poppy seed topping and Hawaiian rolls will still shine and deliver plenty of flavor.
Is there a way to make these sliders healthier?
To lighten things up, opt for low-fat cheese and mayonnaise, and choose whole wheat or multigrain rolls if you can find them. You can also pile on extra veggies like spinach or tomato slices inside the slider for added nutrition.
How far in advance can I assemble these sliders?
You can assemble the sliders several hours before baking and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Just bring them to room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping them into the oven to ensure even cooking.
What are some good dipping sauces for these sliders?
Honey mustard, ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, or a simple garlic aioli all complement the flavors perfectly. They add a fun dimension and can help keep each slider moist and exciting with every bite.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that feels like a little taste of paradise, this Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders Recipe is your answer. It blends comfort with a gorgeous balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes that makes every bite memorable. Don’t wait for a special occasion to whip these up — they’re perfect any time you want to share something truly delicious with friends and family.
Print
Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
These Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders feature sweet Hawaiian rolls loaded with savory deli turkey and melted Swiss or provolone cheese. Topped with a flavorful butter, poppy seed, and onion glaze, they bake to golden perfection, making them an easy and delicious option for parties, game days, or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Sliders
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls, sliced in half
- 3/4 pound sliced deli turkey
- 6 slices Swiss or provolone cheese, halved
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Topping Glaze
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon minced onion
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Mix Spread: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the bottom halves of the Hawaiian rolls placed in the baking dish.
- Assemble Sliders: Layer the sliced deli turkey evenly over the mayo-mustard spread, then add the halved Swiss or provolone cheese on top. Place the top halves of the rolls over the cheese layers.
- Prepare Butter Glaze: In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, poppy seeds, minced onion, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Apply Glaze: Generously brush the butter mixture over the tops of the assembled rolls, ensuring even coverage for flavor and a golden finish.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the sliders to cool slightly before serving to ensure the cheese sets just enough for easy handling and the best flavor experience.
Notes
- These sliders are perfect for parties, game days, or an easy weeknight dinner.
- You can prep the sliders a few hours in advance and refrigerate before baking for convenience.
- Try swapping the turkey with ham or roast beef for a different flavor variation.
