Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are the ultimate comfort food that combines sweet Hawaiian rolls, savory leftover turkey, and tangy cranberry sauce. Perfect for any occasion, these sliders are easy to prepare and pack a flavorful punch that will leave your guests wanting more. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just looking for a quick dinner option, Turkey Cranberry Sliders are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These sliders can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile: Ideal for using up leftover Thanksgiving turkey, this recipe can be adapted with different cheeses or sauces based on your preferences.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy ingredients creates a delicious bite that everyone will enjoy.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve these sliders as an appetizer at parties, a fun lunch option, or even as a comforting dinner dish.
• Comforting and Satisfying: The warm cheese and soft rolls make these sliders truly irresistible.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Turkey Cranberry Sliders, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Pastry brush
• Small bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Provides a safe and even surface for toasting the sliders while ensuring they remain warm and gooey.
• Pastry brush: Helps evenly apply the glaze over the rolls, enhancing their flavor and appearance.
• Small bowl: Essential for mixing ingredients like the glaze without making a mess.
• Whisk: Makes it easy to combine ingredients smoothly when preparing the glaze.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

• 12 Hawaiian rolls
• 3 cups shredded turkey (12 ounces)
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 4 ounces provolone cheese (6 slices)

For the Glaze

• 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon everything bagel seasoning

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350˚F. This ensures that your sliders bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. Melted butter
2. Honey
3. Dijon mustard

Set this mixture aside while you prepare the sliders.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

1. Cut the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally.
2. Lay the bottoms of the rolls in a baking dish.
3. Cover with shredded turkey evenly across all halves.
4. Dollop cranberry sauce over the turkey layer.
5. Add sliced provolone cheese on top of the cranberry sauce.

Step 4: Add Toppings

1. Place the tops back on each roll.
2. Use a pastry brush to spread the glaze over the tops and sides of all rolls.
3. Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top.

(Optional step: Cut between each slider before glazing for enhanced flavor.)

Step 5: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 18-22 minutes or until cheese is melted and tops are golden brown. Enjoy your delicious Turkey Cranberry Sliders!

How to Serve Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking for a quick dinner option, these sliders are sure to impress.

For a Festive Touch

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top the sliders with fresh parsley or rosemary for a pop of color and flavor.
• Serve with Holiday Drinks: Pair your sliders with festive beverages like cranberry spritzers or spiced apple cider.

As Appetizers

• Cut into Smaller Portions: Slice the sliders into smaller pieces to make them easy finger foods for parties.
• Set Up a Slider Bar: Allow guests to customize their sliders by providing additional toppings like jalapeños, pickles, or various cheeses.

Family Dinner Option

• Accompany with Salad: Serve the sliders alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Pair with Soup: A warm bowl of soup, such as butternut squash or tomato basil, complements the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Turkey Cranberry Sliders

To ensure your Turkey Cranberry Sliders are always a hit, keep these tips in mind.

• Bold Flavor Combinations: Use sharp cheddar instead of provolone for an extra flavor kick.
• Even Layering: Spread the cranberry sauce evenly to ensure every bite has that sweet tanginess.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the sliders as they bake; ovens vary in heat distribution.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for homemade cranberry sauce if possible; it enhances the overall taste significantly.
• Experiment with Spices: Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Pairing side dishes with Turkey Cranberry Sliders can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement their flavors well.

1. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until golden brown, these add a crunchy texture and earthy flavor.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory sliders and adds color to your plate.
3. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad topped with vinaigrette offers freshness and balances out the richness of the sliders.
4. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth mashed potatoes provide comfort and pair nicely with turkey dishes.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, making it an excellent contrast to the rich flavors of the sliders.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats can be filled with cheese and herbs for an elegant touch alongside your sliders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Turkey Cranberry Sliders, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the glaze: Not applying the glaze can lead to dry sliders. Always brush on the melted butter, honey, and dijon mustard mixture for added flavor and moisture.
• Overfilling the sliders: Adding too much filling can make it difficult to close the rolls. Stick to the recommended amounts of turkey and cranberry sauce for perfect sliders.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in a cold oven affects cooking time and texture. Always preheat your oven to 350˚F before baking.
• Forgetting to cut the rolls: If you skip cutting between each slider before glazing, you miss out on flavor seeping into each sandwich. Take a moment to cut them for better taste.
• Using stale rolls: Old Hawaiian rolls can ruin your sliders. Ensure you use fresh rolls for a soft, delicious base that enhances your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Turkey Cranberry Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Turkey Cranberry Sliders

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350˚F. Place sliders on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place one slider on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of butter, then place the slider in the pan, cooking until warmed through and slightly crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of rolls for Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

You can definitely experiment with different rolls! While Hawaiian rolls provide sweetness, any soft dinner roll will work well.

How do I customize Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

Feel free to add extras like spinach, sliced apples, or even different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for unique flavors.

What sides pair well with Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

These sliders go great with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or even a warm soup for a complete meal.

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them ahead of time and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to add extra baking time if they are cold from the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings. Feel free to customize them based on your preferences or leftovers! Try this recipe today and enjoy every bite of these delightful sliders.

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Turkey Cranberry Sliders

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Turkey Cranberry Sliders are a delightful comfort food that perfectly balances sweet Hawaiian rolls, savory leftover turkey, and tangy cranberry sauce. Ideal for any occasion, these sliders are quick to prepare and guarantee a flavor explosion that will have your guests asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or seeking a simple weeknight meal, Turkey Cranberry Sliders deliver satisfaction in every bite. With their warm cheese and soft rolls, they make for an irresistible treat that’s both comforting and satisfying.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 12 sliders 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 Hawaiian rolls
• 3 cups shredded turkey
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 4 ounces provolone cheese
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon everything bagel seasoning

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350˚F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, honey, and dijon mustard for the glaze.
3. Cut the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally and lay the bottoms in a baking dish.
4. Layer with shredded turkey, dollop with cranberry sauce, and add provolone cheese slices.
5. Place the tops back on the rolls and brush with the glaze. Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top.
6. Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown and cheese is melted.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slider (90g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Customize your sliders by using different cheeses or adding fresh herbs like parsley. For extra flavor, consider adding spices such as cinnamon to the glaze.