Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun and tasty twist on classic leftovers or an easy party snack that feels festive without a ton of fuss, this Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe is exactly what you need. I absolutely love how these sliders come together—sweet Hawaiian rolls layered with thick-cut turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and melty Swiss or provolone cheese create a perfect harmony of flavors that’s both comforting and exciting. Whenever I serve these at family gatherings or casual get-togethers, they disappear in no time.

What makes this Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe a winner is the buttery garlic poppy seed topping that bakes up golden and crispy, giving each slider that irresistible outer crunch. You’ll find that these sliders work brilliantly whether you’re working with leftover holiday turkey or just craving something quick yet impressive—the ease of assembly means you can toss them in the oven and focus on chilling with your guests. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a go-to not just for holidays but anytime you want a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe come together in such a simple way but deliver big on flavor. Each one plays a key role, from the soft, sweet rolls to the tangy cranberry sauce, making sure every bite is juicy and satisfying.

• Thick-cut deli turkey or ham: Go for thick slices so the meat holds up well and you get a hearty bite.
• Swiss or Provolone cheese: These melt beautifully and add that creamy texture that balances the cranberry.
• Cranberry sauce: Homemade or store-bought both work; just make sure it has a nice zing to cut through the richness.
• Hawaiian Dinner Rolls: The sweet softness of Hawaiian rolls is what makes these sliders extra special.
• Butter (melted): The base for the savory garlic poppy seed glaze that crisps up the top.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds subtle depth and a bit of umami to the butter mixture.
• Dijon Mustard: A touch of tangy sharpness to brighten the flavors.
• Poppy Seeds: Provide a little crunch and visual appeal.
• Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic amps up the flavor of the butter topping.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether you’re catering to dietary needs or just switching up flavors, small tweaks can keep this slider recipe fresh and exciting for you and your guests.

• Meat Variation: I’ve swapped turkey for ham or even roast beef, and it still turns out fantastic. You can cater to whatever deli meat you have or prefer.
• Cheese Swap: Try sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile that still melts nicely.
• Roll Types: If Hawaiian rolls aren’t your thing, soft slider buns or even small brioche buns can work just as well.
• Make It Vegetarian: Use a thick slice of roasted portobello mushroom or a flavorful veggie patty in place of the turkey and pair with the cranberry and cheese—it’s surprisingly good!

How to Make Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Rolls and Layer the Goodies

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Slice your Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, but keep them connected as a whole slab for easy prep. Lay down an even layer of thick-cut turkey (or your chosen meat) on the bottom half of the rolls. Next, spread cranberry sauce generously over the turkey, then top everything with slices of Swiss or provolone cheese. Finally, place the top half of the roll slab over the cheese.

Step 2: Make the Buttery Garlic Glaze and Brush Generously

In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and poppy seeds. This concoction is what gives the slider tops that amazing golden crunch and flavor punch. Brush this mixture all over the top of the rolls, making sure to cover every nook and cranny.

Step 3: Bake Covered, Then Uncover to Brown

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to trap steam and heat, keeping the sliders moist and melty while the flavors meld. Pop it in the oven for 12 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and bake for another 10–12 minutes until the tops are beautifully golden brown but watch closely so they don’t burn. That crispy top is the ultimate texture contrast here.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, slice the slab into individual sliders with a sharp knife. Serve immediately while warm and gooey. I promise, once you get the aroma wafting out of the oven, it’ll be tough to wait!

How to Serve Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping these sliders with a few thin slices of green onion or a sprinkle of fresh thyme for a pop of color and an herbal note that complements the cranberry’s tartness. If you want a little more tang, a swipe of extra Dijon mustard or a couple of pickle slices inside also works beautifully.

Side Dishes

When serving these sliders, I often pair them with a crisp green salad or roasted sweet potato fries. A bowl of warm butternut squash soup on the side can turn this into a complete and comforting meal, especially during chilly months.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to arrange the sliders on a festive wooden board lined with parchment, garnished with sprigs of fresh rosemary and cranberries for that holiday vibe. You might also consider serving each slider skewered with a small decorative pick—perfect for grab-and-go buffets or cocktail parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Because they’re so moist, they stay surprisingly soft without getting soggy. Just make sure they’re cooled completely before refrigerating to avoid condensation in the container.

Freezing

If you’re freezing, wrap the whole slab tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for best protection. When you want to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat gently in the oven—freezing can slightly change texture, but the flavors remain delicious.

Reheating

I reheat leftover sliders in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, covered lightly with foil to prevent drying out. If you want that crispy top back, uncover for the last 2-3 minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe really holds a special place in my heart, especially for turning holiday leftovers into a fresh, exciting meal. It’s one of those dishes that brings everyone to the table with smiles and satisfied appetites—something simple yet full of cozy flavor. Give it a try next time you want a quick fix that feels homemade and special. I promise, once you start making these, they’ll become a staple you reach for again and again.

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