There’s something truly magical about turning leftovers into a delightful new dish, and these Turkey Cranberry Sliders are the ultimate embodiment of that charm! The combination of tender turkey and sweet, tangy cranberry sauce nestled between soft Hawaiian rolls transforms your Thanksgiving leftovers into a fun, easy recipe that the whole family will love. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser, but they can also be whipped up in under an hour, making them the perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Just wait until you see how these sliders disappear at your next get-together! Ready to dig in and elevate your leftover game? Let’s get started!
Why Are Turkey Cranberry Sliders So Irresistible?
Uniqueness: Elevate your Thanksgiving leftovers with these Turkey Cranberry Sliders, a creative twist that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Easy Preparation: Quick and simple to throw together—ready in under an hour—these sliders are a lifesaver for busy nights.
Delicious Flavor Fusion: The savory turkey pairs perfectly with the sweet, tangy cranberry sauce, creating a flavor sensation that’s hard to resist.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to adapt the sliders with cheese alternatives or even ham; the possibilities are endless! For more unique ideas, check out our Baked Cranberry Brie or add stuffing for a classic twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for holiday gatherings or snack time with the family, these sliders will quickly become a favorite!
Turkey Cranberry Sliders Ingredients
For the Sliders
- Hawaiian Sweet Rolls – Soft buns that provide sweetness and a tender texture; substitute with any slider or dinner rolls if needed.
- Diced Turkey – The main protein; use leftover turkey from Thanksgiving. Shredded rotisserie chicken can work as a substitute.
- Cranberry Sauce – Adds sweetness and flavor; relish can also be used for a different taste profile. Warm it slightly to achieve a spreadable consistency.
- Swiss Cheese – Provides creaminess and melt-in-your-mouth texture; substitute with cheddar or your favorite cheese.
For the Topping
- Butter – Adds richness and helps crisp the tops of the rolls; margarine can be used as a substitute.
- Yellow Mustard – Introduces a savory tang that complements the sweetness; Dijon mustard can be a flavorful alternative.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances umami flavor; soy sauce can be a low-sodium substitute.
- Dried Minced Onion – Provides aromatic depth; fresh onion can be diced finely but may require adjustment in quantity.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
Optional Ingredients
- Parmesan Cheese – For an extra layer of flavor and crunch; omit if desired.
- Dried Parsley – For garnish; fresh parsley can also be used for a pop of color.
These Turkey Cranberry Sliders make for a delightful way to utilize Thanksgiving leftovers, giving your family a meal everyone will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when your Turkey Cranberry Sliders go in, they bake evenly and become golden brown. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and line a 9×13 baking pan with foil, making sure to spray it with cooking spray for easy removal later.
Step 2: Prepare the Hawaiian Rolls
Keep the Hawaiian rolls in one whole piece and carefully slice them in half lengthwise. This will create a top and bottom for your sliders. Place the bottom half of the rolls into the prepared baking pan, creating a soft base for the delicious filling. Make sure it’s a snug fit to hold all the flavors!
Step 3: Layer the Filling
Now it’s time to build the flavors! Take your diced turkey and evenly layer it over the bottom half of the rolls. Next, spoon a generous amount of cranberry sauce on top, allowing it to seep into the turkey. Finally, add slices of Swiss cheese over the cranberry layer, ready to melt and bind the sliders together.
Step 4: Add the Top Half
Carefully place the top half of the Hawaiian rolls over the layered filling. Gently press down to ensure it holds together, creating a delightful sandwich. This step is crucial as it will allow the flavors to meld perfectly while baking and help keep the sliders moist.
Step 5: Mix the Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt some butter, then whisk in yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, dried minced onion, and season with salt and pepper. Continue mixing until well combined. This buttery mixture will give your Turkey Cranberry Sliders a flavorful topping that enhances the overall taste.
Step 6: Pour the Butter Mixture
Now, evenly pour the butter mixture over the assembled sliders, ensuring every spot gets some love. This will help crisp the tops while keeping the inside moist and delicious. Make sure you distribute it as evenly as possible for the best flavor throughout.
Step 7: Let It Rest
Cover the baking pan with foil and let the assembled Turkey Cranberry Sliders sit for 5-10 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to absorb into the rolls, making each bite incredibly delightful.
Step 8: Bake the Sliders
Place the covered sliders in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. After this time, uncover the pan and bake for an additional 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they should turn golden and crisp up nicely, enticing everyone with their delicious aroma.
Step 9: Optional Toppings
If you’d like to elevate your sliders even more, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese and dried parsley over the top before serving. This optional step provides extra flavor and a lovely pop of color, making your Turkey Cranberry Sliders even more irresistible!
Step 10: Slice and Serve
Finally, take the sliders out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Slice them individually for easy serving and delight in the gooey cheese and savory turkey mingling with the sweet cranberry. These Turkey Cranberry Sliders are now ready to be enjoyed warm and scrumptious!
Expert Tips for Turkey Cranberry Sliders
- Crunch Factor: Toast the rolls lightly before assembling to avoid sogginess from the butter and create a crunchy contrast with the soft filling.
- Taste Perfection: Start with less mustard and Worcestershire sauce; you can always add more according to your taste to ensure the perfect flavor balance.
- Layer Wisely: Avoid overpacking the turkey and cranberry layers. Ensure everything is snug but not overflowing to let the sliders hold together while baking.
- Add Freshness: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the filling for a vibrant twist that enhances the classic turkey flavors.
- Storage Smart: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh for up to three days, preserving their delightful taste for later enjoyment.
Make Ahead Options
These Turkey Cranberry Sliders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts and can save you precious time during busy weeknights! To prepare ahead, you can assemble the sliders (without the butter topping) up to 24 hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. If you’re looking to prep even further, the filled rolls can be frozen for up to 3 days; just remember to thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking. When ready to enjoy, drizzle the butter mixture over the assembled sliders and let them rest for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Bake as directed—your sliders will be just as delicious, with all the flavors intact!
Turkey Cranberry Sliders: Creative Spins
Feel free to get playful with these sliders; it’s all about making them your own while keeping that delightful flavor!
- Ham & Cheese: Substitute turkey with ham for a delicious twist. The salty goodness pairs beautifully with cranberry!
- Layer of Stuffing: Amp up the Thanksgiving experience by adding a layer of stuffing between the turkey and cheese.
- Gouda Delight: Swap out Swiss for gouda cheese for a rich, smoky flavor that adds depth to the sliders.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha for a fiery version that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace turkey with roasted veggies or a veggie burger patty for a meatless take on these sliders.
- Fruit Infusion: Try peach preserves instead of cranberry for a sweeter twist that contrasts nicely with the turkey.
- Pesto Bliss: Spread a layer of pesto on the rolls for a burst of herbaceous flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Smoky BBQ: Mix in a bit of BBQ sauce with the turkey for a smoky, tangy flavor that’s sure to please.
And if you’re looking for more inspiration, consider our scrumptious Baked Cranberry Brie for a perfect appetizer alongside these sliders!
How to Store and Freeze Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Fridge: Store leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and flavorful for quick snacks or easy meals.
Freezer: If you’d like to freeze the sliders, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, allowing them to last up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the sliders in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy on top. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
What to Serve with Turkey Cranberry Sliders?
This meal is not just about the sliders, but the delightful sides that elevate your dining experience!
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispy texture pair perfectly with the savory sliders, enhancing every bite.
- Leafy Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the sliders, making for a well-rounded meal.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly nutty flavor and caramelized crunch provide a wonderful contrast to the tender and cheesy sliders.
- Warm Applesauce: A touch of sweetness and warmth from homemade applesauce brings out the festive flavors of Thanksgiving in a delightful way.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw adds a fresh and zesty element that complements the rich flavors of the sliders.
- Sparkling Cider: Enjoying these sliders with a glass of sparkling cider infuses your meal with a festive, bubbly atmosphere.
- Pumpkin Pie Bites: For a sweet finish, little pumpkin pie bites make an excellent dessert that resonates with the season and wraps up the meal beautifully.
- Baked Macaroni and Cheese: Gooey, cheesy goodness provides a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with the sliders’ savory notes, making hearts sing!
Turkey Cranberry Sliders Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for my Turkey Cranberry Sliders?
Absolutely! For the best sliders, choose fresh, soft Hawaiian rolls without any dark spots or hard edges. Ensure your turkey is moist and flavorful; leftover Thanksgiving turkey is perfect. When it comes to cranberry sauce, look for a brand that lists whole fruit as an ingredient for a fresher taste.
How should I store leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders?
Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain their deliciousness! If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them.
Can I freeze Turkey Cranberry Sliders?
Very! To freeze, wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
What if my sliders are too soggy when baked?
If you find your Turkey Cranberry Sliders are soggy, it might be due to excess moisture from the turkey or cranberry sauce. To prevent this, try to use less sauce or consider toasting the Hawaiian rolls lightly before assembly to add a crunch element, which can help absorb moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations for making these sliders?
Definitely! If you have guests with allergies, be mindful of cross-contamination with the turkey and cheese. You can easily make these sliders gluten-free by using gluten-free rolls and ensuring that your sauces contain no gluten. For dairy-free options, substitute the cheese with a non-dairy alternative, and replace butter with vegan margarine.
How can I adjust the flavors if I’m not a fan of mustard?
The more the merrier! If mustard isn’t your cup of tea, feel free to reduce the amount or even omit it entirely. Instead, you might want to enhance the umami with a little extra Worcestershire sauce or add in some diced pickles or relish for a tangy flavor pop. Just remember to taste as you go!
Mouthwatering Turkey Cranberry Sliders for Easy Leftover Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 baking pan with foil and spray with cooking spray.
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half lengthwise and place the bottom half into the prepared baking pan.
- Layer the diced turkey over the bottom half of the rolls, followed by cranberry sauce and Swiss cheese.
- Carefully place the top half of the Hawaiian rolls over the filling and gently press down.
- Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl, then whisk in mustard, Worcestershire sauce, dried minced onion, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the butter mixture evenly over the assembled sliders.
- Cover the pan with foil and let the sliders rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Bake the covered sliders in the oven for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Optional: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and dried parsley over the top before serving.
- Slice and serve the sliders warm.
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