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Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Crisp, crunchy, savory, and just a hint of sweetness—Turkey Cranberry Sliders are your next game-changer at any gathering. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant holiday celebration, these delightful little sandwiches pack a punch of flavor and comfort that everyone will adore. With their charming presentation and mouthwatering combination of ingredients, these sliders are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Imagine the aromas wafting through your kitchen as you layer succulent turkey, creamy Havarti cheese, and zesty cranberry sauce—all snugly tucked into fluffy Hawaiian rolls. A buttery glaze elevates them to a golden perfection in the oven, inviting your friends and family to grab a bite before they even hit the table. Let’s dive into why you need these sliders in your life.

Why Make This Recipe

They are perfect for gatherings, quick weeknight dinners, or special occasions.
They balance flavors beautifully—savory, sweet, and a little tangy.
Simple ingredients and easy preparation make them a hit for any cooking skill level.

A Flavor Adventure

What truly sets these Turkey Cranberry Sliders apart is the union of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the cranberry sauce harmonizes with the savory turkey and rich Havarti cheese, all nestled between soft, buttery rolls. It’s a delightful treat that feels indulgent without overwhelming your palate. You won’t be able to stop at just one!

How to Make Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own batch of Turkey Cranberry Sliders that are sure to impress.

Ingredients

To get started, gather the following ingredients:

1 package (12 count) Hawaiian rolls
8 ounces sliced turkey
8 ounces sliced Havarti cheese
1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon everything bagel seasoning
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Directions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish. You don’t usually need to grease this dish when making sliders, as the butter glaze will take care of any sticking.
Prepare the Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
Take your package of Hawaiian sweet rolls. Using a large serrated knife, carefully slice the entire block of rolls in half horizontally, keeping them connected. Gently place the entire bottom section of the rolls into your prepared baking dish.
Spread the Cranberry Sauce
Take your 1/2 cup of whole berry cranberry sauce. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread it evenly over the bottom layer of the Hawaiian sweet rolls, ensuring a consistent layer across all the buns.
Layer on the Deli Turkey
Arrange half of your thinly sliced deli turkey in an even layer over the cranberry sauce. Try to cover as much surface area as possible, folding or tearing larger slices to fit.
Add the Cheese Layer
Lay your Havarti cheese slices over the turkey. Cut regular-sized cheese slices in half or quarters to fit neatly on the smaller buns, overlapping them slightly to ensure full coverage.
Add Another Layer of Turkey for Heartiness
To make these sliders extra satisfying, add the remaining half of your deli turkey over the cheese layer, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Place the Top Rolls
Carefully take the top section of your connected Hawaiian sweet rolls and place it directly over the layered turkey and cheese. Gently press down on the rolls to make sure everything is snug and secure.
Prepare the Flavorful Butter Glaze
In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in the Dijon mustard, brown sugar, everything bagel seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined.
Pour the Glaze Over the Sliders
Generously pour the prepared butter glaze evenly over the top of the assembled Hawaiian sweet rolls. Make sure to get it over all the buns, allowing some of it to seep down into the cracks between the rolls.
Cover and Bake
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place the covered dish into your preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 20 minutes. This helps steam the sliders and melt the cheese perfectly.
Uncover and Bake Until Golden
After 20 minutes, carefully remove the aluminum foil. Return the uncovered dish to the oven and continue baking for another 5-10 minutes, or until the tops of the rolls are beautifully golden brown and slightly crisp, and the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Rest and Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the baking dish from the oven. Let the sliders rest for about 5 minutes; this allows the cheese to set slightly, making them easier to cut. After resting, use a sharp knife to cut along the lines of the individual rolls, separating them. Serve warm and enjoy!

Storage Tips for Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Storing your leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders can extend the delicious joy they bring. Here are some detailed recommendations:

Refrigerator: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container for 3–4 days at 40°F.
Freezer: You can freeze the assembled sliders (unbaked) for up to 2 months. Just ensure they are well wrapped.
Reheating: Thaw frozen sliders in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispy exterior and melted cheese.

Best Ways to Serve Turkey Cranberry Sliders

The versatility of Turkey Cranberry Sliders makes them a fantastic option for various occasions. Here are some fun serving suggestions:

Party Platter: Cut them into smaller pieces and arrange on a platter for easy snacking.
Game Day Treat: Serve with an assortment of dips like ranch or a spicy sriracha aioli for an extra kick.
Sided with Salads: Pair these sliders with a side of fresh mixed greens or a tangy coleslaw for a complete meal.
At Breakfast: Try using them as a morning option by adding a fried egg and some avocado for a brunch twist.

These sliders not only impress with their taste but also adapt beautifully to your serving style.

Tips to Make Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Here are some handy tips for a flawless slider experience:

Choose Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your sliders will shine through if you use fresh, quality ingredients. Select the finest deli turkey and real Havarti cheese for the best outcome.
Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the sliders to rest before cutting is key. This step helps to set the cheese and makes serving much easier.
Experiment with Cheese Varieties: If you’re not a fan of Havarti, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or swiss for a different flavor.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to put your spin on these tasty sliders, consider these variations:

Veggie Lovers: Replace turkey with roasted vegetables for a delightful vegetarian version. Think grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and some creamy goat cheese for a different culinary experience.
Sweet Heat: Add some jalapeños for a spicy kick. If you want more sweetness, experiment with apple butter instead of cranberry sauce, providing a unique but delicious flavor profile.

FAQs about Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the sliders ahead of time and store them in the fridge, wrapped tightly. When it’s time to serve, just bake them until golden.

Q: Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
A: Certainly! Cooked chicken breast works just as well. Feel free to shred or slice it, and use it as a direct substitute for turkey.

Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: To add some heat, include sliced jalapeños in the layers, or swap out the Dijon mustard for a spicy mustard variety.

Q: What can I serve these sliders with?

Potato chips
Fresh veggies with dip
A side of fruit salad
Sweet potato fries

These pairing suggestions will enhance your slider experience!

Nutritional Information

For those interested in nutritional data, here is a rough estimate per slider (excluding side items):

Calories: 200
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 3g
Fats: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g

Conclusion

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are not just another dish; they’re a wholesome blend of flavors and textures that redefine casual dining. From their sweet and savory notes to their delightful presentation, these sliders have everything going for them. Whether you’re preparing them for a crowd or enjoying a quiet evening at home, they provide comfort and joy in every bite. Allow your culinary creativity to flow, and watch as these little gems become the highlight of any meal. Don’t miss out on making your own batch of these scrumptious sliders; they will win over hearts and stomachs alike!