These Turkey Cranberry Sliders are a tasty treat! They feature juicy turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and soft slider buns that make them perfect for any gathering.
Who doesn’t love a little sweet and savory combo? I love serving these at parties, and they disappear within minutes. So easy, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: I love using Hawaiian rolls for their sweet flavor and soft texture. If you can’t find them, any soft slider bun or even small hamburger buns will work fine.
Turkey: Rotisserie turkey is a great option for convenience. You can also use leftover turkey from a holiday meal. If you need a vegetarian option, try using roasted portobello mushrooms or a plant-based turkey substitute.
Cranberry Sauce: Homemade cranberry sauce adds a fresh twist, but store-bought works great too. You can substitute with apple sauce for a sweeter taste or a fruit chutney for a different flavor profile.
Cheese: Provolone gives a nice melt and flavor, but you could use mozzarella, cheddar, or even pepper jack if you like a bit of spice.
How Do I Layer the Sliders for the Best Flavor?
Layering is key for a great turkey cranberry slider. Start by ensuring an even distribution of turkey and cranberry sauce to balance the flavors.
- Place the turkey slices neatly, then follow with an even layer of cranberry sauce. This keeps the buns from getting soggy.
- Add the cheese afterward to help seal in moisture and bind everything together.
- Don’t forget to brush the tops with melted butter—this adds flavor and helps achieve a golden, crispy top.
This method ensures every bite has that perfect balance of turkey, cranberry, and cheese. Enjoy!
Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 soft slider buns (Hawaiian rolls work well)
- 1 lb cooked turkey breast, thinly sliced or shredded
- 1 cup prepared cranberry sauce (whole berry preferred)
- 6 slices provolone cheese (or mozzarella, cut in halves for sliders)
For the Topping:
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh sage or thyme sprigs
- Whole cranberries
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of baking time. So, in total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes to have these tasty sliders ready to serve! Perfect for a quick meal or a gathering with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, while you’re prepping, your oven gets hot and ready for baking!
2. Prepare the Slider Buns:
Take your pack of slider buns and slice them horizontally in half without separating them, creating a top and bottom layer. Place the bottom half in a baking dish or on a baking sheet. This will be the foundation of your sliders!
3. Layer the Ingredients:
Begin layering your ingredients: first, add the turkey slices evenly over the bottom buns. Try to spread them out nicely for an even flavor. Next, spread the cranberry sauce over the turkey layer, making sure to cover it well. Finally, lay the provolone cheese slices evenly over the cranberry sauce.
4. Top with the Other Half:
Now place the top half of the slider buns over the cheese layer. This will help hold all those delicious fillings together!
5. Mix the Butter Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with dried thyme and garlic powder. This mix adds a yummy flavor and gives the sliders a nice golden color when baked.
6. Brush the Buns:
Using a brush or spoon, generously brush the butter mixture over the top of the slider buns. Don’t be shy—this flavor is what makes them extra special!
7. Bake:
Cover the sliders loosely with foil to keep them moist and pop them in the preheated oven. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sliders are heated through.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven. If desired, garnish each slider with a fresh cranberry and a small sprig of thyme or sage for a beautiful presentation. Finally, cut the sliders apart and serve them warm.
Enjoy your delicious, festive Turkey Cranberry Sliders at any gathering! They’re sure to impress!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey from a holiday meal works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure it’s sliced or shredded to fit nicely in the sliders.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sliders up to the baking step, cover them tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to a day. When you’re ready to bake, just increase the baking time by a few minutes to ensure they’re heated through.
What Is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or microwave them briefly until warmed through.
Can I Substitute the Cranberry Sauce?
Definitely! If you’d like a different flavor, you can use apple sauce or a fruit chutney as a substitute for cranberry sauce. Each will give the sliders a unique twist!
