If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for any holiday gathering or casual party, look no further than these Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders. With their savory turkey, gooey cheese, and tangy cranberry sauce all tucked inside soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls, these sliders deliver all the flavors we crave during the festive season in every bite.
PrintCheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders: A Perfect Holiday Treat
✨ Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders are the ultimate festive bite! 🦃🧀 These juicy turkey sliders are topped with gooey melted cheese and tangy cranberry sauce, creating a mouthwatering combination of flavors. 🍒 Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just looking for a delicious snack, these sliders are a guaranteed hit. Ready to indulge in this festive deliciousness? 😍
#HolidaySliders 🦃🧀 #CheesyGoodness 😋 #CranberryTurkeyDelight 🍒 #FestiveFlavors ✨ #SavoryAndSweetBites 💖 #TurkeyAndCheeseLove 🧀 #SlidersForDays 🍽️ #TastyHolidayTreats 🎄 #SnackTimeBliss 😍 #SeasonalDeliciousness 🌟
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- Hawaiian rolls (1 package, 16 oz, 12 count): The soft, slightly sweet rolls are the perfect vehicle for the savory fillings. They have just the right texture to soak up the flavors without falling apart.
- Deli turkey (1 lb, sliced): You can use deli-sliced turkey breast or leftover turkey from a holiday meal. The turkey provides a mild, savory base that complements the sweetness of the cranberry sauce and richness of the cheese.
- Cranberry sauce (1 cup, jellied or whole berry): The cranberry sauce adds the sweet and tangy element that pairs beautifully with turkey and cheese. Whether you prefer jellied or whole berry cranberry sauce, both work well in this recipe.
- Havarti or Provolone cheese (6 slices): These cheeses are great for melting and offer a creamy, mild flavor that doesn’t overpower the other ingredients. Havarti is a bit creamier, while Provolone adds a subtle sharpness.
Butter Topping Ingredients:
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, melted): The base for the topping, which helps give the rolls a golden-brown, crispy finish when baked.
- Worcestershire sauce (2 teaspoons): Adds a savory umami flavor to the butter mixture, which enhances the overall richness of the sliders.
- Dijon mustard (2 teaspoons): The tanginess of Dijon mustard provides a nice balance to the richness of the cheese and butter.
- Minced dried onion (2 teaspoons): Adds a savory, slightly sweet depth of flavor. The dried onion flavor is milder than fresh onion, making it perfect for these sliders.
- Poppy seeds (2 teaspoons): These tiny seeds add a slight crunch and a mild, nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the buttery topping.
- Fresh minced chives (2 teaspoons): A burst of freshness and a mild oniony flavor that brightens up the sliders and complements the richness of the other ingredients.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the optimal temperature for baking the sliders, allowing them to heat through and melt the cheese perfectly without overcooking. As the oven preheats, lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure that the sliders don’t stick to the pan as they bake.
Step 2: Slice the Rolls
Take the entire package of Hawaiian rolls and slice them in half horizontally. You want to keep the rolls intact as one big piece, as this makes it easier to assemble the sliders and bake them together. Place the bottom half of the rolls in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Layer the Turkey and Cranberry Sauce
Next, layer the sliced deli turkey evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. You can arrange the turkey slices in a single layer or overlap them slightly for a more substantial filling. Afterward, spread cranberry sauce on top of the turkey. You can use either jellied or whole berry cranberry sauce based on your preference. The cranberry sauce should be spread evenly, covering the turkey and adding that delicious sweet and tangy flavor.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Now it’s time to add the cheese! Lay the slices of Havarti or Provolone cheese over the cranberry sauce. The cheese should cover the entire surface, ensuring that every slider gets a generous portion of melty goodness. This is where the sliders start to take shape, with the cheese becoming the glue that holds all the delicious fillings together.
Step 5: Top the Sliders
Place the top half of the rolls over the assembled turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese. Gently press the rolls down to help them stay together. The sliders are now ready to be brushed with the flavorful butter topping.
Step 6: Prepare the Butter Topping
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced dried onion, poppy seeds, and minced chives. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined. This will form the rich, flavorful topping that you will brush over the tops of the rolls.
Step 7: Brush the Rolls with Butter Mixture
Generously brush the butter mixture over the tops of the rolls, making sure each slider gets a nice coating. This butter mixture will help the sliders achieve a crispy, golden-brown finish as they bake.
Step 8: Bake the Sliders
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the sliders are heated through and the cheese is fully melted. After this initial bake, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the tops to brown and become crispy. This will give your sliders the perfect golden finish.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sliders are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two before slicing them into individual portions. Serve them warm for the best experience! These sliders are perfect for holiday gatherings, casual parties, or a cozy snack with family.
Notes
- Substitute the Meat: If you’re not a fan of turkey, feel free to substitute with chicken or even ham. Both would work wonderfully with the cranberry sauce and cheese.
- Different Cheeses: While Havarti and Provolone are the perfect cheeses for this dish, you can experiment with others like Swiss, Cheddar, or Monterey Jack. Each cheese will give the sliders a slightly different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, you can skip the turkey and substitute with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, or even hummus for a creamy, flavorful spread.
- Add a Zing: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a few slices of jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha sauce on top of the cranberry sauce before adding the cheese. This adds a spicy kick that contrasts with the sweetness of the cranberry.
- Make Ahead: These sliders are perfect for making ahead. You can assemble them up to a day in advance, cover them with foil, and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven and bake as directed.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these sliders with a side of crispy potato wedges, green salad, or pickle spears for a complete meal. They’re also perfect for dipping into ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a tangy mustard sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Whether you’re planning a family dinner, hosting a party, or simply craving a comforting snack, these sliders will hit the spot. The best part? They’re ready in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for when you’re in a pinch but still want to impress your guests.
In this article, we’ll take you through a comprehensive guide to making these delicious sliders. We’ll break down each component, from the ingredients to the step-by-step instructions, and help you envision the delightful textures and aromas that come together in this festive dish. Plus, we’ll offer helpful tips for ingredient substitutions, variations, and serving suggestions to give you flexibility in creating this dish for any occasion.
So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to make these irresistible Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders—your taste buds are in for a treat!
The Appeal of Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders
There’s something truly special about the combination of savory, cheesy, and sweet flavors coming together in a single dish. These sliders are the perfect example of that magic. Imagine the rich, juicy slices of turkey, layered with a tangy cranberry sauce that balances the meat’s mildness perfectly. Then, add melty Havarti or Provolone cheese, which offers a creamy, slightly sharp contrast to the sweetness of the cranberry sauce. Finally, all this goodness is sandwiched between soft Hawaiian rolls, whose slightly sweet flavor enhances the savory elements without overwhelming them.
The sliders are also topped with a flavorful butter mixture that includes Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced dried onion, poppy seeds, and fresh chives. This topping not only adds an extra layer of flavor but also gives the sliders a golden, crispy finish after baking, making each bite a delightful mix of textures—from soft and gooey to crisp and slightly crunchy.
This combination of flavors makes these sliders an ideal choice for holiday gatherings, where they can serve as a delightful snack or appetizer. They’re perfect for leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or Christmas, but can easily be made with deli turkey if you’re craving them outside the holiday season. Either way, they are bound to be a hit with guests, no matter the occasion.
Ingredients Breakdown
To make these Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Main Ingredients:
- Hawaiian rolls (1 package, 16 oz, 12 count): The soft, slightly sweet rolls are the perfect vehicle for the savory fillings. They have just the right texture to soak up the flavors without falling apart.
- Deli turkey (1 lb, sliced): You can use deli-sliced turkey breast or leftover turkey from a holiday meal. The turkey provides a mild, savory base that complements the sweetness of the cranberry sauce and richness of the cheese.
- Cranberry sauce (1 cup, jellied or whole berry): The cranberry sauce adds the sweet and tangy element that pairs beautifully with turkey and cheese. Whether you prefer jellied or whole berry cranberry sauce, both work well in this recipe.
- Havarti or Provolone cheese (6 slices): These cheeses are great for melting and offer a creamy, mild flavor that doesn’t overpower the other ingredients. Havarti is a bit creamier, while Provolone adds a subtle sharpness.
Butter Topping Ingredients:
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, melted): The base for the topping, which helps give the rolls a golden-brown, crispy finish when baked.
- Worcestershire sauce (2 teaspoons): Adds a savory umami flavor to the butter mixture, which enhances the overall richness of the sliders.
- Dijon mustard (2 teaspoons): The tanginess of Dijon mustard provides a nice balance to the richness of the cheese and butter.
- Minced dried onion (2 teaspoons): Adds a savory, slightly sweet depth of flavor. The dried onion flavor is milder than fresh onion, making it perfect for these sliders.
- Poppy seeds (2 teaspoons): These tiny seeds add a slight crunch and a mild, nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the buttery topping.
- Fresh minced chives (2 teaspoons): A burst of freshness and a mild oniony flavor that brightens up the sliders and complements the richness of the other ingredients.
Together, these ingredients come together in perfect harmony to create sliders that are not only delicious but also visually appealing, with their golden brown tops and gooey cheese peeking through.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the optimal temperature for baking the sliders, allowing them to heat through and melt the cheese perfectly without overcooking. As the oven preheats, lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure that the sliders don’t stick to the pan as they bake.
Step 2: Slice the Rolls
Take the entire package of Hawaiian rolls and slice them in half horizontally. You want to keep the rolls intact as one big piece, as this makes it easier to assemble the sliders and bake them together. Place the bottom half of the rolls in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Layer the Turkey and Cranberry Sauce
Next, layer the sliced deli turkey evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. You can arrange the turkey slices in a single layer or overlap them slightly for a more substantial filling. Afterward, spread cranberry sauce on top of the turkey. You can use either jellied or whole berry cranberry sauce based on your preference. The cranberry sauce should be spread evenly, covering the turkey and adding that delicious sweet and tangy flavor.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Now it’s time to add the cheese! Lay the slices of Havarti or Provolone cheese over the cranberry sauce. The cheese should cover the entire surface, ensuring that every slider gets a generous portion of melty goodness. This is where the sliders start to take shape, with the cheese becoming the glue that holds all the delicious fillings together.
Step 5: Top the Sliders
Place the top half of the rolls over the assembled turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese. Gently press the rolls down to help them stay together. The sliders are now ready to be brushed with the flavorful butter topping.
Step 6: Prepare the Butter Topping
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced dried onion, poppy seeds, and minced chives. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined. This will form the rich, flavorful topping that you will brush over the tops of the rolls.
Step 7: Brush the Rolls with Butter Mixture
Generously brush the butter mixture over the tops of the rolls, making sure each slider gets a nice coating. This butter mixture will help the sliders achieve a crispy, golden-brown finish as they bake.
Step 8: Bake the Sliders
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the sliders are heated through and the cheese is fully melted. After this initial bake, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the tops to brown and become crispy. This will give your sliders the perfect golden finish.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sliders are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two before slicing them into individual portions. Serve them warm for the best experience! These sliders are perfect for holiday gatherings, casual parties, or a cozy snack with family.
Flavor, Texture, and Aroma
When you take your first bite of these Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders, you’re in for a treat. The first thing you’ll notice is the soft, pillowy texture of the Hawaiian rolls. The slight sweetness of the rolls contrasts beautifully with the savory turkey and tangy cranberry sauce. As you bite into the slider, the creamy cheese melts in your mouth, adding richness and a satisfying gooeyness.
The topping, with its savory notes from Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and minced onion, brings a layer of complexity to the sliders. The poppy seeds and fresh chives add a nice crunch and burst of flavor, complementing the richness of the cheese and the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.
As the sliders bake, the aromas fill the kitchen, making your home smell warm and inviting. The savory scent of turkey and cheese mingles with the sweet, tangy notes of cranberry, and the buttery topping gives off a mouthwatering fragrance as it crisps up in the oven.
Tips and Variations
- Substitute the Meat: If you’re not a fan of turkey, feel free to substitute with chicken or even ham. Both would work wonderfully with the cranberry sauce and cheese.
- Different Cheeses: While Havarti and Provolone are the perfect cheeses for this dish, you can experiment with others like Swiss, Cheddar, or Monterey Jack. Each cheese will give the sliders a slightly different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, you can skip the turkey and substitute with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, or even hummus for a creamy, flavorful spread.
- Add a Zing: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a few slices of jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha sauce on top of the cranberry sauce before adding the cheese. This adds a spicy kick that contrasts with the sweetness of the cranberry.
- Make Ahead: These sliders are perfect for making ahead. You can assemble them up to a day in advance, cover them with foil, and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven and bake as directed.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these sliders with a side of crispy potato wedges, green salad, or pickle spears for a complete meal. They’re also perfect for dipping into ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a tangy mustard sauce.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders are the perfect holiday dish, blending savory and sweet flavors in a way that will delight your guests and keep them coming back for more. The soft Hawaiian rolls, juicy turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and melty cheese all come together to create a slider that’s impossible to resist. The crispy, buttery topping adds a finishing touch that elevates these sliders to something truly special.
Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday feast, a casual get-together, or simply because you’re craving something comforting, these sliders are sure to be a hit. Easy to make and full of flavor, they’re the kind of dish that brings people together and leaves everyone with full stomachs and happy hearts.
Give this recipe a try today, and enjoy the delicious flavors and aromas that come with making these irresistible sliders!