Looking for the perfect way to transform your leftover Thanksgiving turkey? These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are about to become your new post-holiday tradition! Warm, toasty buns filled with tender turkey, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and melty cheese create the ultimate comfort food experience that’s both nostalgic and exciting.
What makes these sliders truly special is how they balance flavors and textures in every bite. The buttery, slightly sweet rolls provide the perfect canvas for the savory turkey and tangy cranberry combination. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or looking for a quick family dinner, these sliders deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This
- Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish – perfect for busy weeknights
- Makes brilliant use of holiday leftovers, but works just as well with deli turkey
- The sweet-savory combination appeals to both kids and adults
- Can be prepped ahead and baked just before serving
- Easily scalable for crowds – double or triple the recipe for larger gatherings
Ingredients
- 16oz package Hawaiian rolls (12 count)
- 1 lb deli turkey, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (jellied or whole berry)
- 6 slices havarti or provolone cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons minced dried onion
- 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
- 2 teaspoons fresh minced chives
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray.
- Slice Hawaiian rolls in half lengthwise and place the bottom half into the baking dish.
- Layer the deli turkey across the rolls, then spread cranberry sauce evenly over the turkey. Add the cheese slices in an even layer.
- Place the top bun layer onto the sliders. Mix together melted butter, Worcestershire, Dijon mustard, dried onion, poppy seeds, and chives in a small bowl, then generously brush across the tops of the slider buns.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the sliders are warmed through and the cheese is melted.
- Remove foil and bake for another 3-5 minutes to brown the tops of the sliders. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Add a layer of stuffing between the turkey and cranberry sauce for an even more authentic Thanksgiving flavor
- Try different cheeses like brie, cheddar, or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles
- For extra crunch, add a thin layer of chopped pecans or walnuts before the cheese
- Substitute leftover ham or rotisserie chicken if turkey isn’t available
- Make a quick homemade cranberry sauce by simmering 2 cups fresh cranberries with ½ cup sugar and ¼ cup orange juice for 10 minutes
- For a spicy kick, add a few thin slices of jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes
Serving Suggestions
These Cranberry Turkey Sliders pair beautifully with lighter sides like a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette or a cup of butternut squash soup. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside sweet potato fries or a small portion of mac and cheese.
If you’re entertaining, arrange the sliders on a platter with fresh herb garnish and provide extra cranberry sauce on the side for dipping. They’re perfect for game days, casual brunches, or anytime you need an easy crowd-pleaser!
Notes
- Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Reheat in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through
- For best results, use rolls that are connected, like Hawaiian sweet rolls or dinner rolls sold in a single slab
- The sliders are done when the cheese is fully melted and the tops are golden brown
FAQs
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the sliders up to 24 hours in advance, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Add the butter topping just before baking.
Can I freeze these sliders?
While you can freeze them, the texture of the rolls may change slightly. For best results, freeze before baking, then thaw completely in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
What if I don’t have leftover turkey?
Deli turkey works perfectly in this recipe! Look for thicker slices for the best texture, or use rotisserie chicken as an alternative.
Can I make these in a slow cooker for a potluck?
These are best baked in the oven for the crispy top, but you can keep them warm in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting for up to 2 hours after baking.
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