Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Perfect for holiday leftovers or a quick, comforting meal, these Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders are a delightful mix of savory and sweet. Layered with tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, melty cheese, and buttery rolls, they’re a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again. Whether for a party appetizer or a simple dinner, these sliders are sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
- 2 cups cooked turkey (shredded or thinly sliced)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 6 slices Swiss cheese or provolone (cut to fit the buns)
For the Butter Topping:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp poppy seeds (optional)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Assemble the Sliders:
- Slice the slider buns in half horizontally, keeping them attached, and place the bottom halves in the prepared baking dish.
- Layer the turkey evenly over the buns, followed by cranberry sauce and cheese slices. Place the top halves of the buns over the filling.
3. Prepare the Butter Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, Dijon mustard, honey, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds (if using), and garlic powder until combined.
4. Bake the Sliders:
- Brush the butter topping generously over the buns, making sure to coat evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the sliders cool for a couple of minutes before slicing into individual portions. Serve warm and watch them disappear!
Tips and Variations
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the sliders a few hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add the butter topping just before baking.
- Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, brie, or gouda for unique flavor combinations.
- Add Veggies: Include a layer of sautéed spinach or caramelized onions for extra texture and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free rolls to make this dish suitable for everyone.
These sliders are everything you need in a cozy, shareable dish—simple, flavorful, and packed with holiday cheer.
Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders are the ultimate way to transform leftovers into a dish that feels entirely fresh and exciting. Picture soft, buttery rolls layered with juicy turkey, tart cranberry sauce, and gooey melted cheese—all baked to golden perfection. Whether it’s after a big holiday feast or simply a craving for comforting flavors, these sliders are a hit every single time. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of prep, this recipe makes an effortless yet satisfying meal or appetizer.
The magic of these sliders lies in the combination of flavors and textures. The savory turkey pairs beautifully with the sweet-tangy cranberry sauce, while the cheese ties everything together with creamy richness. The butter topping, infused with Dijon mustard and honey, gives the sliders an irresistible golden crust with just the right amount of sweetness and spice. It’s a dish that strikes the perfect balance of indulgent and wholesome, making it a favorite for kids and adults alike.
These sliders are also endlessly versatile. Swap turkey for chicken or ham, or experiment with different cheeses like brie or gouda to suit your taste. They’re perfect for parties, game days, or busy weeknights when you need something quick and delicious. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal, or keep it casual with chips or fries. However you serve them, these sliders are guaranteed to have everyone reaching for seconds!