These Turkey Cranberry Sliders are perfect for any gathering! They combine juicy turkey with tangy cranberry sauce, all nestled in soft, mini buns. Yum!
Making these sliders is super fun! They’re great for game day or a quick dinner. I love adding a little cheese on top for extra flavor—just melts my heart! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: I prefer using soft Hawaiian rolls for their sweetness and pillowy texture. If you can’t find them, any slider buns or dinner rolls will work. You can even use whole grain or gluten-free options if desired.
Cooked Turkey: Use leftover turkey for a quick meal, especially after holidays. If you’re vegetarian or need a substitution, you could use roasted mushrooms or chickpeas for a hearty alternative.
Cranberry Sauce: Homemade cranberry sauce adds a nice touch, but store-bought works perfectly too. If you’re not a fan of cranberry, consider using BBQ sauce or a sweet chutney for a different flavor.
Cheese: Swiss or provolone cheese adds creaminess, but feel free to try cheddar, gouda, or omit it altogether for a dairy-free version.
How Can I Make My Sliders Extra Flavorful?
To really enhance the flavor of your sliders, pay attention to the seasoning and the assembly process. Here’s how:
- Season the turkey with salt and pepper before layering it on the buns to ensure it’s flavorful.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the melted butter for a fragrant finish. If you do not have fresh herbs, dried ones will work in a pinch.
- Brushing the slider tops with the butter mixture not only adds flavor but helps them brown beautifully during baking.
- Consider adding a layer of spinach or arugula for some freshness—it’s a great way to boost nutrition and flavor.
Following these tips will make your Turkey Cranberry Sliders a hit at your next gathering! Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors!
Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 soft slider buns (such as Hawaiian rolls)
- 2 cups cooked turkey breast, shredded or sliced
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Additions:
- 6 slices of Swiss or provolone cheese, halved
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to bake, for a total of about 30 minutes. It’s a quick and tasty option for a delicious appetizer or a cozy dinner!
Simple Steps to Make Your Sliders:
1. Get Ready:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your sliders bake evenly and come out warm and delicious.
2. Prepare the Buns:
Grab your slider buns and slice them in half horizontally. Make sure to keep the tops and bottoms together—this helps with assembly later.
3. Layer with Turkey:
Take the bottom halves of your buns and place them on a baking sheet or in a large baking dish. Layer the cooked turkey evenly over each bun bottom, packing it in for tasty bites!
4. Add the Cranberry Sauce:
Spoon the cranberry sauce over the turkey layer. Spread it gently to cover the turkey, giving that sweet-tart flavor in every bite.
5. Cheese, Optional:
If you like cheese, take your halved slices of Swiss or provolone cheese and place them on top of the cranberry sauce.
6. Assemble the Sliders:
Place the top halves of the slider buns over the fillings to complete your sliders.
7. Butter Time:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. This will add flavor and a nice golden color to the sliders. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the slider buns.
8. Bake:
Cover the sliders loosely with foil and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the tops are golden brown and slightly crispy.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take them out from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm and enjoy the bubbly deliciousness of your Turkey Cranberry Sliders!
These sliders are sure to be a hit, combining the savory turkey with the sweet cranberry sauce all in a delightful soft bun. Perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for These Sliders?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen turkey, make sure to completely thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. You can also quickly thaw it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water if you’re short on time. Just be sure it’s fully cooked and shredded before assembling your sliders!
How Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sliders by assembling them and covering them tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven as directed, adding a few extra minutes if they’re coming straight from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them for a minute or two or place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This will help maintain their soft texture.
Can I Use Different Ingredients if I Don’t Have Cranberry Sauce?
Definitely! If you’re not a fan of cranberry sauce, consider using BBQ sauce or a sweet apple chutney for a different flavor profile. You could also try mixing in some low-sugar jam or even a slice of cheese for creaminess and added taste.
