Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them an ideal choice for any gathering. These delightful mini sandwiches combine the flavors of tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and creamy cheese all nestled between soft Hawaiian rolls. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy family dinner or hosting a festive holiday party, these sliders are sure to impress your guests with their mouthwatering taste and easy preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these sliders in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of turkey, cranberry sauce, and provolone cheese creates a deliciously balanced flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as appetizers at parties, or serve them as a hearty meal alongside your favorite side dishes. They’re great for any occasion!
• Crowd-Pleaser: The delightful combination of ingredients is loved by both kids and adults alike, ensuring that everyone at your table will enjoy them.
• Leftover Magic: These sliders are an ideal way to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey, transforming it into a new culinary delight.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having the right equipment on hand will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Pastry brush
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish is crucial for holding the sliders together while they bake to golden perfection.
• Mixing bowl: This is where you’ll combine the glaze ingredients for added flavor. A good mixing bowl helps in keeping everything well incorporated.
• Whisk: A whisk ensures that your glaze is smooth and evenly mixed, which enhances the overall flavor of your Turkey Cranberry Sliders.

Ingredients

To create these delectable Turkey Cranberry Sliders, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Sliders

• 12 Hawaiian rolls
• 3 cups shredded turkey (12 ounces see note)*
• 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 (175˚C). This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown finish on your sliders.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

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

Set this mixture aside as it will add flavor to your slider tops.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

1. Carefully cut the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally.
2. Lay the bottom halves in a baking dish.
3. Evenly distribute the shredded turkey over the bottom halves of the rolls.
4. Dollop cranberry sauce on top of the turkey layer.
5. Place sliced provolone cheese over the cranberry sauce.

Step 4: Add Tops and Glaze

1. Place the tops back on each roll.
2. Use a pastry brush to apply the glaze generously over each slider’s top and sides.
3. Optionally, cut between each sandwich before glazing so that flavors seep through more effectively.
4. Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top for extra flavor.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in your preheated oven for 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 gathering or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these sliders fit perfectly into any occasion.

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve the sliders warm with a side of sweet potato fries for a comforting family meal.

Holiday Gatherings

• Present the sliders on a festive platter as an appetizer for holiday parties; they’ll disappear quickly!

Game Day Snack

• Pair the sliders with your favorite dipping sauces and crunchy veggies for a fun game day spread.

Lunch Box Treat

• Pack the sliders in lunch boxes for a delightful midday meal that is easy to eat on the go.

Picnic Delight

• Wrap individual sliders in parchment paper for an easy, portable lunch option at picnics.

How to Perfect Turkey Cranberry Sliders

To ensure your Turkey Cranberry Sliders are always a hit, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh rolls: Fresh Hawaiian rolls enhance flavor and texture, making each bite more enjoyable.

• Layer ingredients evenly: Spread turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese evenly to ensure each slider has balanced flavors.

• Customize the glaze: Experiment with different seasonings in your butter glaze for a unique twist each time.

• Bake until golden: Ensure you bake the sliders until they are golden brown on top for that perfect crispy finish.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Cranberry Sliders

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

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the sliders.

2. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast that complements the flavors of the sliders.

3. Vegetable Platter: A colorful array of raw veggies with hummus offers crunch and healthy snacking options.

4. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw brings a tangy crunch that pairs well with the sweetness of cranberry sauce.

5. Macaroni and Cheese: A classic comfort food that adds creaminess and warmth to your meal.

6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a light, sweet side that contrasts beautifully with savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Turkey Cranberry Sliders turn out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Overcooking the sliders: Baking for too long can lead to dry sandwiches. Keep an eye on them and remove them once the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
• Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste of your sliders.
• Not using enough cranberry sauce: A thin layer of cranberry sauce can make the sliders bland. Make sure to dollop on a generous amount for that sweet and tangy kick.
• Choosing the wrong cheese: Provolone cheese works beautifully, but you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar. Ensure it’s a melty cheese for best results.
• Ignoring seasoning: The everything bagel seasoning adds a wonderful flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle it generously on top for that extra deliciousness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Turkey Cranberry Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Turkey Cranberry Sliders

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sliders on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a slider on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter. Place the slider in the skillet, cover, and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Turkey Cranberry Sliders.

Can I use leftover turkey from Thanksgiving?

Yes! Leftover turkey is perfect for these sliders, adding great flavor and saving you time.

What type of rolls work best for Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

Hawaiian rolls are ideal due to their sweetness, but you can also use other soft dinner rolls if preferred.

How do I customize my Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

Feel free to add toppings like sliced avocado, spinach, or different cheeses based on your taste preferences!

Are Turkey Cranberry Sliders suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These sliders are great for meal prep since they store well and reheat easily.

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They’re perfect as an appetizer or a quick dinner option. Feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients or sides. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how simple yet satisfying they are!