Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe

There's nothing quite like the taste of savory turkey paired with the sweet-tart punch of cranberry sauce, all nestled between soft, fluffy slider buns. These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are a post-holiday lifesaver, perfect for using up Thanksgiving leftovers while creating something fresh and crowd-pleasing.

The first time I made these sliders, I was simply trying to clear out my fridge. Now, they’re a game-day staple and a must-have for holiday gatherings. Let’s dive into this simple, delicious recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You'll Love This Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe

Get ready to add a new favorite to your leftover lineup. These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are a delicious way to transform extra turkey and cranberry sauce into an irresistible snack or meal.

First off, they’re a breeze to make. With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these sliders assembled and in the oven, leaving you free to relax or attend to other tasks while they bake to melty perfection. Perfect for busy post-holiday days!

These sliders are incredibly versatile. If you’re not a fan of cranberry sauce, swap it out for a different spread, or mix things up with different types of cheese. It’s easy to customize based on your tastes or what you have on hand.

They’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them as a quick lunch for your family or as appetizers at your next holiday party, these sliders always seem to vanish within minutes. Everyone loves the mix of savory and sweet, melty cheese, and buttery buns.

And did I mention they’re perfect for meal prep? You can assemble the sliders a day in advance and simply pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve. It’s a stress-free option that’s great for entertaining or planning ahead for busy days.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Cranberry Turkey Sliders lies in how easily they come together with just a handful of simple ingredients. Let’s break down the key components that make these sliders so tasty.

The slider buns form the soft, pillowy base. I recommend Hawaiian sweet rolls for an extra touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tart cranberry sauce and savory turkey. If you prefer a less sweet option, dinner rolls will work just as well.

Next up is the cooked turkey. Leftover roasted turkey is ideal, but you can also use deli turkey in a pinch. Dark meat will give you a richer flavor, but white meat works perfectly too, especially when you layer it with plenty of cheese.

Speaking of cheese, Swiss cheese is my go-to for these sliders. Its creamy, slightly nutty flavor complements the turkey and cranberry sauce beautifully. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, try using sharp cheddar, provolone, or even a mix of cheeses.

The cranberry sauce brings a sweet-tart flavor that cuts through the richness of the turkey and cheese. You can use homemade cranberry sauce or your favorite store-bought version. If you prefer less sweetness, try a whole-berry variety or even a cranberry-orange relish for extra zing.

Finally, we finish things off with a buttery topping. A simple mix of melted butter, garlic powder, and poppy seeds brushed over the buns before baking gives these sliders a golden, flavorful crust that makes every bite irresistible. If you’re feeling fancy, you can sprinkle in some dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.

How To Make These Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Creating these mouthwatering Cranberry Turkey Sliders is simpler than you might think. Let me walk you through the process step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it heats up, grab a 9x13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it. This will keep the sliders from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Then, without separating the rolls, slice the slider buns in half horizontally. Place the bottom half of the buns into the prepared dish.

Next, layer your sliced turkey evenly over the bottom buns. Be generous with your turkey to ensure every slider is packed with flavor. On top of the turkey, spread an even layer of cranberry sauce. The amount is up to you, but I find that 1-2 tablespoons per slider gives a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Now, add the slices of Swiss cheese over the cranberry sauce. If you like your sliders extra cheesy, feel free to double up on the cheese slices. Then, place the top half of the buns over the cheese layer, pressing down gently.

To make the buttery topping, melt some butter in a small bowl and stir in garlic powder and poppy seeds. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the buns. This will create a crispy, golden crust as the sliders bake.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops of the buns are golden brown. The total bake time is just 20-25 minutes, making these sliders a quick and satisfying option.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), these Cranberry Turkey Sliders are easy to store and reheat. Simply transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat individual sliders in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 325°F for 10-15 minutes.

For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled sliders before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, remove the plastic wrap and cover the dish with foil. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are incredibly adaptable, so feel free to make them your own. Here are some ideas to get you started:

For a different flavor profile, try using honey mustard or spicy aioli in place of cranberry sauce. The tangy mustard pairs well with turkey and adds a savory kick.

If you don’t have turkey on hand, rotisserie chicken is an excellent substitute. It’s moist and flavorful, making it perfect for these sliders. You could also try sliced roast beef for a heartier version.

Prefer a different cheese? Go ahead and swap out the Swiss for pepper jack if you want some heat, or brie for a creamy, decadent twist. The options are endless!

Want to add some extra texture? Try layering in some arugula or baby spinach for a bit of freshness, or sprinkle in some crispy bacon bits for smoky flavor. You can also add a layer of caramelized onions for a sweet, savory punch.

However you decide to customize these sliders, they’re sure to be a hit. Have fun experimenting, and don’t be afraid to get creative with the ingredients you have on hand!

Print