Turkey Cranberry Sliders are a fun and tasty little sandwich that brings together tender turkey, sweet cranberry sauce, and soft slider buns. These mini sandwiches are filled with flavors that remind me of a cozy holiday meal, but they’re quick and easy enough to enjoy any time of the year. The mix of savory turkey and fruity cranberry makes each bite really satisfying and fresh.
I love making these sliders when I want something simple but special for lunch or a casual get-together. I usually add a little cream cheese or a slice of melty cheese to make them extra creamy, and the cranberry sauce adds just the right touch of sweetness. They’re perfect for sharing, and I find that everyone always asks for seconds!
One of my favorite ways to serve these sliders is with a side of kettle chips or a small salad for a balanced meal. They also make great appetizers when friends come over, and I like to keep a batch ready for quick snacks. These sandwiches remind me of family gatherings and are a cheerful twist on traditional leftovers that taste anything but ordinary.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: Hawaiian rolls are soft and slightly sweet, which pairs beautifully with turkey and cranberry. If you can’t find them, try dinner rolls or small brioche buns for a similar texture and flavor.
Turkey: Cooked turkey breast works best for a tender, lean bite. Leftover roast turkey or deli turkey slices are good shortcuts when you’re short on time.
Cranberry Sauce: This adds sweetness and a bit of tang. You can use canned cranberry sauce for convenience, or make your own with fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a touch of honey. For a twist, try chutney or a berry jam substitute.
Cheese: Swiss or provolone melts nicely and balances the flavors without overpowering. If you prefer, mozzarella or gouda are tasty alternatives.
Seasoned Butter: Brushing the buns with butter mixed with Italian or poultry seasoning and garlic powder adds extra flavor and a golden crust. Feel free to use herbes de Provence or seasoning blends you like.
How Do You Make Turkey Cranberry Sliders So They Stay Juicy and Delicious?
To keep your sliders moist and flavorful, layering and baking just right is key.
- Start with evenly spreading turkey in a single layer to avoid dry patches.
- Add a generous swipe of cranberry sauce — it helps keep the meat moist and adds tang.
- Cover with cheese to lock in moisture and create a gooey texture.
- Brush the top buns with seasoned melted butter for a golden, slightly crisp finish.
- Cover the sliders with foil when baking to trap steam—this warms the filling without drying it out.
- Uncover near the end to let cheese melt fully and buns toast just right.
These steps help balance soft, juicy insides and a pleasant golden top, giving you sliders that are comforting with a touch of crispness!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish (9×13-inch works well) – I like it because it fits all sliders in one layer for even baking.
- Small mixing bowl – for mixing melted butter and seasonings, making it easy to brush evenly.
- Basting brush or silicone brush – helps spread the seasoned butter smoothly over the buns for a golden finish.
- Sharp knife – for slicing the buns and cheese cleanly, ensuring neat layers.
- Oven – a standard oven is perfect to bake the sliders to gooey, toasted perfection.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Swiss cheese for cheddar or Monterey Jack for a richer or sharper flavor.
- Add a layer of crispy bacon or pancetta for extra saltiness and crunch.
- Mix in caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms under the cheese for added texture and flavor.
- Use cranberry chutney or a fruit jam instead of cranberry sauce for a different sweetness level.
Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (Hawaiian rolls work well)
- 2 cups cooked turkey breast, sliced or shredded
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
- 6 slices Swiss cheese or provolone, halved
For the Topping:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning or poultry seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 20 minutes to bake. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy days or gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep and Layer the Sliders:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half horizontally, keeping the top and bottom halves together. Place the bottom halves in a baking dish. Layer the cooked turkey evenly over the bottoms, then spread cranberry sauce generously on top of the turkey. Place half slices of Swiss or provolone cheese over the cranberry sauce.
2. Add the Tops and Seasoned Butter:
Cover the sliders with the top halves of the buns. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, dried Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Brush this flavorful butter mixture evenly over the tops of the buns to add a golden, tasty crust.
3. Bake and Serve:
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake the sliders for about 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the buns turn golden brown. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious turkey cranberry sliders!
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for These Sliders?
Yes, you can! Just make sure the turkey is fully thawed before assembling the sliders. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker thawing.
Can I Make Turkey Cranberry Sliders Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the sliders, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed right before serving for best freshness and melted cheese.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to maintain that toasted bun texture.
Can I Substitute the Cheese?
Definitely! Swiss and provolone melt well and taste great, but you can swap in cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda based on your preference. Just pick a cheese that melts nicely.
