Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are a delightful way to transform leftover turkey into mouthwatering treats. These sliders feature sweet Hawaiian rolls, tangy cranberry sauce, and melted cheese, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or casual dinners. Their easy preparation and incredible flavor make them a must-try recipe that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these sliders in the oven and ready to enjoy.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of savory turkey, sweet cranberry, and creamy cheese creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as a party appetizer or a cozy weeknight dinner; they fit any occasion perfectly.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone from kids to adults will enjoy these tasty sliders.
• Easy Cleanup: One baking dish means fewer dishes and more time enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Turkey Cranberry Sliders even easier. Gather your equipment before starting to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Whisk
• Pastry brush
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Perfectly sized for holding all the sliders together while they bake, ensuring even cooking.
• Whisk: Makes mixing your glaze quick and easy, creating a smooth texture for better flavor distribution.
• Pastry brush: Ideal for applying the glaze evenly over the rolls, enhancing flavor and appearance.

Ingredients

To create these delicious Turkey Cranberry Sliders, you’ll need:

For the Sliders

• 12 Hawaiian rolls
• 3 cups shredded turkey (12 ounces)
• 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. This ensures that your sliders cook evenly.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

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

Set this delicious glaze aside for later use.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

1. Cut the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally and place the bottoms in a baking dish.
2. Layer with shredded turkey evenly over the bottom halves of the rolls.
3. Spread cranberry sauce on top of the turkey in an even layer.
4. Top with slices of provolone cheese.

Step 4: Apply the Glaze

1. Place the tops back on the rolls.
2. Use a pastry brush to spread your glaze mixture over the top and sides of each roll.
3. Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top for added flavor.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for 18-22 minutes until the cheese is melted and tops are golden brown.

Enjoy these Turkey Cranberry Sliders as a flavorful addition to your next meal!

How to Serve Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a festive gathering, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your slider experience.

Casual Dinner

• Serve with a side of mixed greens for a light and refreshing contrast.
• Pair with sweet potato fries for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Holiday Parties

• Offer them as part of a buffet alongside other finger foods for easy snacking.
• Serve on decorative platters for an appealing presentation that draws guests in.

Game Day

• Set up a slider bar where guests can customize their toppings, such as extra cranberry sauce or different cheeses.
• Include a variety of dips to complement the sliders, like ranch or spicy mustard.

Family Gatherings

• Place sliders in the center of the table for a communal eating experience that encourages sharing.
• Pair with creamy coleslaw to add a crunch factor that balances the sliders’ softness.

How to Perfect Turkey Cranberry Sliders

To make your Turkey Cranberry Sliders even more delightful, consider these tips. They will help you achieve maximum flavor and texture in each bite.

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh cranberry sauce instead of canned for a vibrant flavor boost.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust the amount of dijon mustard or honey in the glaze based on your preference for sweetness or tanginess.
• Cut rolls efficiently: Slice through the Hawaiian rolls evenly to ensure each slider holds together well when served.
• Let them rest: Allow sliders to sit for 5 minutes after baking; this helps the flavors meld and makes them easier to cut.
• Add more cheese: For extra creaminess, consider adding another layer of provolone or trying different cheese varieties like cheddar or gouda.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Cranberry Sliders

When serving Turkey Cranberry Sliders, pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy and slightly sweet, they provide a fantastic contrast to the savory sliders. Bake or air-fry for quick prep.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy cabbage salad adds freshness; try a vinegar-based dressing for a tangy kick!
3. Mixed Green Salad – Light and healthy, topped with walnuts and feta cheese, it offers freshness alongside hearty sliders.
4. Vegetable Platter – Raw veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers with hummus make for colorful and healthy sides.
5. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad complements the flavors of turkey and cranberry beautifully; serve chilled or at room temperature.
6. Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn brushed with butter is sweet and satisfying; cut it into smaller pieces for easy eating alongside sliders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your Turkey Cranberry Sliders turn out perfectly.

• Skipping the Glaze: The glaze adds flavor and moisture, so don’t skip it. Make sure to evenly brush it over the rolls for the best taste.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Using cold turkey can lead to uneven heating. Allow your turkey to come to room temperature for a more consistent bake.
• Overstuffing the Sliders: While it’s tempting to add lots of turkey and cranberry sauce, overstuffing can lead to messy sandwiches. Stick to the suggested amounts for easier handling.
• Neglecting to Preheat: Failing to preheat your oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat for optimal melting of cheese and browning of rolls.
• Choosing the Wrong Cheese: Not all cheeses melt well. Opt for provolone or similar cheeses for a gooey texture that complements the other flavors.

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 each slider tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Turkey Cranberry Sliders

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place sliders on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and cheese is melted.
• Microwave: Place sliders on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on high for about 30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, place sliders in the pan, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Turkey Cranberry Sliders.

How do I make Turkey Cranberry Sliders ahead of time?

You can prepare the sliders by assembling them without baking. Cover them tightly and store them in the refrigerator overnight. Bake just before serving.

Can I customize Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

Absolutely! You can add different types of cheese or use different sauces like barbecue or mustard according to your preference.

What type of bread works best for Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

Hawaiian rolls are ideal due to their sweetness and soft texture. However, you can also use any soft dinner rolls if you prefer.

Are Turkey Cranberry Sliders suitable for parties?

Yes! These sliders are perfect for gatherings due to their bite-sized nature and delicious flavors that guests will love.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are a delightful blend of savory turkey, sweet cranberry sauce, and melted cheese tucked inside soft Hawaiian rolls. This recipe is not only simple but also versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or cheeses. Whether you’re preparing them for dinner or serving them at holiday parties, these sliders are sure to impress!