Turkey Cranberry Sliders

By:

Thomas

Published:

November 29, 2025

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Turkey Cranberry Sliders bring a burst of flavor that could make anyone smile. These sliders combine tender turkey with sweet cranberry sauce, all enveloped in those irresistibly soft Hawaiian rolls. If you’re looking for a snack or a fun meal idea, you’ve landed in the right spot. Picture this: a cozy gathering with friends or family, and you’re serving up warm, cheesy, and delicious turkey sliders. Sounds perfect, right? That’s the magic these little bites bring to the table. They’re not just delicious; they’re also easy to make and a great way to use up leftover turkey. Let’s jump into this delightful recipe and create something everyone will love!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe strikes a delightful balance between savory and sweet. The turkey provides the protein we crave, while the cranberry sauce adds a unique twist. Plus, using Hawaiian Sweet Rolls gives the sliders a slightly sweet flavor, which complements the ingredients perfectly. And the best part? They are incredibly easy to make. With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip these up in no time. This combination makes it perfect for game days, casual get-togethers, or just when you’re in the mood for something tasty.

Why You’ll Love This Turkey Cranberry Sliders

These sliders are everything you want in a bite-sized meal. First, the combination of turkey and cranberry is both comforting and nostalgic. It reminds us of holiday feasts and family gatherings, creating a warm atmosphere. Then, there’s the melted Swiss cheese that ties everything together with its creamy richness. And don’t forget about the buttery glaze that makes the tops golden and crispy. You get texture, flavor, and satisfaction all in one bite. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or a party treat, these Turkey Cranberry Sliders will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

1 package Hawaiian Sweet Rolls (12-count)
3 cups cooked turkey (diced, sliced, or pulled)
1 cup cranberry sauce
6 slices Swiss cheese
4 tablespoons butter (melted)
1 teaspoon yellow mustard (or Dijon mustard)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)

Creating Your Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for those tasty sliders. Next, prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish. You can either line it with non-stick foil or spray it with cooking spray. This will make removing the sliders much easier later.

Prepare the Rolls

Now it’s time to tackle those Hawaiian Sweet Rolls. Carefully separate the top from the bottom. Once done, lay the bottom half into your prepared baking dish. This forms the base for your sliders and makes assembly super simple.

Layer with Turkey

Here comes the fun part! Evenly distribute the shredded or chopped turkey over the bottom half of the rolls. Make sure to spread it out so every slider has a hearty amount. This layer defeats hunger and makes each bite bursting with flavor!

Add Cranberry Sauce

Next, take your cranberry sauce and spoon it over the turkey. This sweet and tart layer is what makes these Turkey Cranberry Sliders distinctively delicious. Spread it evenly to ensure that everyone gets a taste of that festive flavor.

Top with Swiss Cheese

Now, let’s add a layer of Swiss cheese on top of the cranberry sauce. Place the slices right over the sauce. The creamy texture of the cheese pairs beautifully with the other flavors and makes it feel gourmet, even when it’s super simple.

Close the Sliders

Finally, take the top half of the Hawaiian Rolls and gently place it back onto the filled bottom portion. Just like that, your sliders look complete and ready for their buttery topping!

Make the Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and if you like, those optional poppy seeds. This mixture adds a rich flavor that elevates the sliders.

Pour Butter Over the Sliders

Generously pour that buttery goodness over the top of the assembled sliders. Use a brush or spoon to distribute it evenly. Make sure every corner is covered so that they bake nicely with that perfect golden finish.

Bake to Perfection

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 3 minutes. This allows the tops to turn golden brown and crispy, creating a luscious texture contrast.

Serve Hot

Once baked, pull your Turkey Cranberry Sliders from the oven and let them cool slightly. This only takes a few minutes. Then slice them into individual sliders, serve immediately, and enjoy every flavorful bite!

Serving Suggestions

These Turkey Cranberry Sliders pair wonderfully with crispy sweet potato fries. For a lighter option, consider a fresh green salad. You can enjoy these sliders in a casual setting or elevate them for a more polished meal — the choice is yours!

Tips for Success

Using leftover turkey not only saves time but also maximizes flavor. It’s a great way to utilize what you have.
To add a fresh twist, consider using chopped fresh herbs in the butter mixture.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses if you want to shake things up!

Variations

For a tasty change, swap out the turkey for shredded chicken or even roasted vegetables if you’re leaning towards a vegetarian option.
Change the cheese to cheddar or provolone for a new flavor twist that might surprise your taste buds!

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They keep well for up to 3 days. When you want to reheat, simply cover them with foil and bake at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.

Pairing Ideas

To enhance the experience of your Turkey Cranberry Sliders, serve them with a refreshing cranberry spritzer. The bright flavors of the drink complement the sliders, making for an enjoyable meal.

FAQs

1. Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sliders ahead and keep them covered in the fridge. Bake them when you’re ready to serve.

2. What type of bread works best for sliders?
Hawaiian Sweet Rolls are ideal due to their slightly sweet flavor, but any soft slider roll will do.

3. Can I freeze turkey cranberry sliders?
Yes, you can freeze assembled sliders before baking. Just thaw and bake them when you’re ready to indulge.

4. How can I make these gluten-free?
Choose gluten-free rolls and make sure all other ingredients, like mustard, are gluten-free.

5. Are there any alternatives to cranberry sauce?
Certainly! Consider using homemade cranberry relish or even a fruit chutney for a delicious flavor variation.

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are more than just a dish; they are a celebration of flavors and memories. With an easy preparation process, they’re perfect for any gathering or casual meal. Enjoy sharing this delightful treat with loved ones, making moments that are sure to be remembered!