These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are the perfect mix of juicy turkey and tangy cranberry sauce, all tucked into a soft bun. They’re tasty and great for any gathering!
Plus, making these sliders is a breeze! I love serving them with a side of sweet potato fries—it’s a hit every time. Your friends will thank you for this tasty treat! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: I recommend using soft dinner rolls or Hawaiian rolls for a sweet touch. If you’re looking for whole grain, try whole wheat buns instead. Just keep in mind that the texture may change slightly.
Turkey Breast: Use store-bought rotisserie turkey for convenience, or leftover turkey from a holiday feast works perfectly. If you’re vegetarian, consider using roasted mushrooms or a plant-based turkey substitute.
Cheese: I love Swiss cheese for its meltiness, but provolone is a great option too. If you want a dairy-free alternative, try using vegan cheese slices, just keep an eye on melt time.
Cranberry Sauce: Whether homemade or canned, cranberry sauce is essential for that sweet tang. For a twist, try using a raspberry sauce or even apple chutney!
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for brushing on the buns. For a healthier choice, olive oil can also work well—and it adds a nice flavor!
How Do I Get the Perfectly Melted Cheese?
Getting perfectly melted cheese is crucial for these sliders. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C) before starting.
- Cover the sliders with foil for the first part of baking. This traps steam, which melts the cheese without overcooking it.
- Remove the foil towards the end to let the tops get golden and crispy, adding texture!
- If you want extra gooey cheese, you can add a few extra slices on top after baking and pop it back in for a minute.
Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (preferably soft dinner rolls or Hawaiian rolls)
- 1 lb cooked turkey breast, sliced thinly or shredded
- 6 slices Swiss cheese or provolone cheese, halved if large
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- Optional: mayonnaise or Dijon mustard for spreading
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, so you’ll be enjoying these sliders in about 30 minutes! Quick and easy, right?
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your sliders cook evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.
2. Prepare the Buns:
Take your slider buns and slice them in half horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms attached. This will make assembly super easy!
3. Layer the Bottom Buns:
Place the bottom halves of the buns on a rimmed baking sheet. This is where all the goodness will sit!
4. Add the Turkey:
Layer your sliced or shredded turkey evenly over the bottom buns. Make sure to cover them well for a tasty, hearty bite.
5. Cheese, Please:
Now, place your cheese slices evenly over the turkey. They’ll melt beautifully when baked!
6. Spoon on the Cranberry Sauce:
Generously spoon the cranberry sauce over the cheese. This is what gives the sliders that sweet-tangy flavor!
7. Top It Off:
Carefully place the top halves of the buns back on, creating little sandwiches!
8. Butter and Season:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with thyme. Brush this yummy mixture over the tops of the buns for added flavor and a nice golden color.
9. Bake with Care:
Cover the sliders loosely with foil and bake them in the oven for about 15 minutes. This helps the cheese to melt and everything to heat through.
10. Get Golden Brown:
After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes. This will make the tops nice and golden.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve warm, and enjoy these tasty sliders as a fun finger food or appetizer!
These sliders balance savory turkey and melted cheese with the sweet tangy burst of cranberry sauce inside soft, buttery buns—perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey makes for a perfect filling in these sliders. Just shred or slice it thinly and layer it on the buns. It’s a great way to use up those holiday leftovers!
How Can I Make These Sliders Healthier?
You can use whole grain slider buns for added fiber, and opt for lean turkey breast to cut down on fat. You might also consider reducing the amount of cheese or using a lighter cheese option.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders ahead of time and cover them tightly in the fridge. When ready to serve, just bake them as directed. Keep in mind they may need a few extra minutes in the oven if they’re cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or in the microwave until warm. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out!