These delightful cranberry turkey sliders are a tasty mix of juicy turkey and zesty cranberry sauce, all packed into a soft bun. Perfect for a quick meal or a fun party snack!
Honestly, these sliders are like a hug on a plate! I love making them for everyone – they always disappear quickly. You’ll definitely want to keep some for yourself! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: I recommend using soft Hawaiian rolls for a touch of sweetness. If you can’t find them, any soft dinner rolls will do. Whole wheat options add a nice twist, but be aware they can be denser.
Turkey: Cooked turkey breast is best, and rotisserie turkey or chicken makes for a quick option. If you want to keep it vegetarian, try roasted vegetables or a veggie patty instead!
Cranberry Sauce: Use homemade or store-bought. If you prefer a lower sugar option, look for unsweetened cranberry sauce or make your own with fresh cranberries. I’ve found that even adding a splash of orange juice enhances the flavor!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds a lovely sharpness. Feel free to swap it out for Swiss, provolone, or even a dairy-free cheese if you prefer. Cream cheese can be delicious as a spread, too!
Coleslaw: This ingredient is optional, but if you skip it, consider adding some fresh spinach or arugula for a fresh bite. You can also use any kind of salad mix you like!
How Can I Ensure My Sliders Are Not Soggy?
To keep your sliders from getting soggy, it’s essential to layer your ingredients in a certain way. Start with cheese on the bottom, as it acts like a barrier to keep moisture away from the buns. When adding cranberry sauce, don’t go overboard—just enough to drizzle and add flavor without soaking the bread.
- Spread melted butter on both sides of the buns for richness and to help create a crisp texture.
- Cover them with foil while baking to keep them moist initially, but remove it in the last few minutes if you want a slightly crunchy top.
- Allow sliders to cool slightly after baking. This gives time for the filling to settle, reducing moisture when served.
Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (soft and sweet, like Hawaiian rolls)
- 2 cups cooked turkey breast, sliced or shredded
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 6 slices cheddar cheese (cut in half to fit sliders)
- 1 cup coleslaw or shredded cabbage (optional for crunch)
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 15-20 minutes for baking. In total, you’ll spend about 30-35 minutes from start to finish — ideal for a quick, tasty meal or an easy appetizer for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready for baking the sliders.
2. Prepare the Slider Buns:
Slice the slider buns horizontally in half while keeping them connected at the sides. This makes it easier to assemble later and helps maintain their shape.
3. Butter the Buns:
Spread the melted butter evenly over the cut sides of both the top and bottom buns. If you’d like, sprinkle some dried thyme or rosemary on the top buns for added flavor.
4. Build the Sliders:
Start layering! Place a half slice of cheddar cheese on each of the bottom buns. Then, add an even layer of sliced or shredded turkey breast over the cheese.
5. Add the Cranberry Sauce:
Generously spoon cranberry sauce over the turkey, allowing it to cover the meat well. This is where the flavor really shines!
6. Include the Crunchy Element:
If you’d like a bit of crunch, sprinkle a small amount of coleslaw or shredded cabbage over the cranberry sauce. This adds a nice texture contrast to the sliders.
7. Complete the Assembly:
Carefully place the top buns back on each slider, completing the assembly.
8. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the entire tray with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes in the preheated oven. This will melt the cheese and warm everything through.
9. Finishing Touches:
Once done, remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. This makes it easier to cut them apart without the filling spilling out.
10. Serve & Enjoy:
Cut the sliders apart and serve warm! These sliders are perfect for a festive meal or a quick bite at a gathering. Enjoy the delicious mix of flavors and textures!
These sliders beautifully combine juicy turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, sharp cheddar, and a hint of herb butter on soft rolls—perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey for These Sliders?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey is perfect for these sliders and adds a comforting touch. Just be sure to slice or shred it to fit nicely in the buns.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Sliders?
Any leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders a few hours ahead and cover them tightly. Just bake them right before serving! This way, they’ll be warm and cheesy when served.
Can I Substitute the Cheese?
Definitely! If cheddar isn’t your favorite, you can swap it for Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even a dairy-free cheese alternative. Get creative with your favorite flavors!
