Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Hawaiian rolls, leftover Thanksgiving turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese combine to make Turkey Cranberry Sliders that are perfect for any occasion. These delightful slider sandwiches are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re making them for a cozy dinner or serving them at holiday parties, they stand out with their unique combination of sweet and savory tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these sliders in no time.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of turkey, cranberry sauce, and melted cheese creates an irresistible taste sensation.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Utilize your leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or any other meal to make these delicious sliders.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These sliders are sure to impress guests at parties or gatherings with their appealing look and taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, main dish, or even a lunch option.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Turkey Cranberry Sliders, you’ll need a few essential tools to streamline the cooking process and ensure your sliders come out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Pastry brush
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: The right size baking dish ensures even cooking for all the sliders.
• Pastry brush: Using a pastry brush helps evenly distribute the glaze over the sliders for maximum flavor.
• Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl allows you to easily combine the glaze ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: A whisk is ideal for achieving a smooth glaze by combining the butter, honey, and mustard thoroughly.

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

How to Make Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350˚F. This ensures that your sliders cook evenly and become perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

In a small mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the melted butter, honey, and dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Set this mixture aside for later use on your sliders.

Step 3: Prepare the Rolls

1. Cut the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally.
2. Lay the bottoms of the rolls in a baking dish.
3. Evenly cover the bottom of the rolls with shredded turkey.
4. Dollop cranberry sauce on top of the turkey in an even layer.
5. Lay sliced provolone cheese over the cranberry sauce.

Step 4: Assemble and Glaze

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 for added flavor.
4. (Optional) Cut between each sandwich before glazing so that flavors seep through.

Step 5: Bake

Bake your assembled sliders for 18-22 minutes or until the cheese is melted and tops are golden brown. Enjoy your Turkey Cranberry Sliders warm!

How to Serve Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, here are some creative serving suggestions.

Casual Gatherings

• Game Night: Pair the sliders with chips and dips for a relaxed evening with friends while enjoying your favorite sports.
• Picnic Style: Serve the sliders on a platter alongside fresh fruits and veggie sticks for an easy outdoor meal.

Holiday Parties

• Buffet Style: Arrange the sliders on a large tray with assorted toppings like pickles and jalapeños for guests to customize their sandwiches.
• Appetizer Platter: Cut the sliders into smaller pieces and serve them on toothpicks for easy snacking during holiday festivities.

Family Dinners

• Comfort Food Combo: Serve the sliders with homemade mashed potatoes or creamy coleslaw to create a hearty family meal.
• Soup Pairing: Offer a bowl of warm butternut squash or tomato soup alongside the sliders for a comforting touch.

How to Perfect Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Creating the best Turkey Cranberry Sliders is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold Flavor Glaze: Ensure you mix the glaze thoroughly so that every slider gets an even coating of flavor.
• Layer Smartly: Spread ingredients evenly for balanced bites—too much turkey or cranberry can overwhelm the flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cranberry sauce and good-quality cheese will make your sliders taste exceptional.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the oven; overbaking can lead to dry sliders. Aim for that golden brown top!

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Pairing side dishes with Turkey Cranberry Sliders can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: A delicious and slightly sweet complement that pairs well with turkey flavors.
2. Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette offers freshness and balance.
3. Crispy Onion Rings: These provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft sliders.
4. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and tang, making it an excellent side for rich sandwiches.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized make for a flavorful and healthy addition.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad helps cleanse the palate between bites of savory slider goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to watch for when making Turkey Cranberry Sliders.

• Using stale rolls: Fresh Hawaiian rolls make a big difference in taste and texture. Always use fresh rolls for the best results.
• Overloading on cranberry sauce: While it’s tempting to add more cranberry sauce, too much can make the sliders soggy. Use just enough to complement the turkey without overwhelming it.
• Not preheating the oven: Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven for consistent baking results.
• Forgetting to glaze: The glaze adds flavor and helps brown the tops of the sliders. Don’t skip this step; it enhances both taste and appearance.
• Not cutting between sliders: Cutting between each slider before applying the glaze allows flavors to soak in better. This extra step is worth it for enhanced flavor.
• Ignoring cheese quality: Using low-quality cheese can impact flavor. Choose a good provolone or your preferred cheese for maximum taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to avoid sticking.

Freezing Turkey Cranberry Sliders

• Wrap sliders tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for freezer storage.
• They will last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Turkey Cranberry Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350˚F and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to prevent sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place sliders in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Turkey Cranberry Sliders.

How can I customize Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

You can customize these sliders by adding different cheeses, such as cheddar or mozzarella, or incorporating vegetables like spinach or arugula for added freshness.

Can I use leftover turkey from any meal?

Yes! Any cooked turkey will work well, whether it’s from Thanksgiving or another meal. Just shred it before using it in the recipe.

What other sauces pair well with Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

Aside from cranberry sauce, you could use barbecue sauce or a sweet chili sauce for a different flavor profile that complements turkey nicely.

Are there alternatives for Hawaiian rolls?

If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use any soft roll or even slider buns made from whole-grain bread for a healthier option.

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

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

Final Thoughts

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for parties or family dinners. Feel free to experiment with ingredients like different cheeses or sauces based on your preferences. You won’t be disappointed when you try this delightful recipe!