Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are the perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors, making them an irresistible addition to any meal or party. These delightful slider sandwiches, made with Hawaiian rolls and leftover turkey, are not only simple to prepare but also pack a flavor punch that will have your guests asking for seconds. Ideal for game day gatherings, holiday parties, or a cozy family dinner, Turkey Cranberry Sliders combine the comforting taste of Thanksgiving with the convenience of finger food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these sliders in no time.
• Flavor-Packed – The combination of turkey, cranberry sauce, and provolone cheese creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Serving Option – Perfect as an appetizer for gatherings or as a hearty main dish for lunch or dinner.
• Great Use of Leftovers – Transform your leftover turkey into something special instead of letting it go to waste.
• Fun Finger Food – These sliders are easy to serve and eat, making them a hit at any event.

Tools and Preparation

To make Turkey Cranberry Sliders, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Whisk
• Pastry brush
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish – A good quality baking dish ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden brown finish on your sliders.
• Whisk – Using a whisk allows you to blend ingredients smoothly for your glaze without lumps.

Ingredients

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 your sliders bake evenly and achieve the best texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, and dijon mustard until well combined. Set this mixture aside as it will add delicious flavor to the slider tops.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Cut the sweet Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottoms in a baking dish.
– Cover each bottom with shredded turkey.
– Dollop cranberry sauce evenly over the turkey layer.
– Lay sliced provolone cheese over the cranberry sauce.

Step 4: Add Toppings

Place the tops back on the rolls. Use a pastry brush to spread the glaze generously over both the top and sides of each roll. Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top for added flavor.
– Optional: Cut between each sandwich before brushing on glaze for better flavor absorption.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until the cheese is melted and tops are golden brown. Enjoy your Turkey Cranberry Sliders hot out of the oven!

How to Serve Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are versatile and can be served in various ways to delight your guests. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these sliders are sure to impress.

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve alongside a light salad for a balanced meal.
• Pair with sweet potato fries for a comforting touch.

Holiday Parties

• Arrange on a platter with festive garnishes like fresh herbs.
• Include toothpicks for easy serving during gatherings.

Game Day Snacks

• Present with an assortment of dipping sauces like ranch or spicy mustard.
• Offer a variety of sides to create a fun snack spread.

Lunch Box Treats

• Pack in lunch boxes with fresh fruit for a delightful midday meal.
• Wrap individually for easy grab-and-go options.

How to Perfect Turkey Cranberry Sliders

To ensure your Turkey Cranberry Sliders turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Use fresh rolls: Fresh Hawaiian rolls provide the best texture and flavor, enhancing the overall experience.
• Don’t overload the filling: Less is more. Ensure you have just enough turkey and cranberry sauce to avoid soggy sliders.
• Allow flavors to meld: Let the sliders sit for a few minutes after baking before cutting them. This allows the flavors to combine beautifully.
• Experiment with cheese: While provolone is delicious, try different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for unique flavor profiles.
• Customize toppings: Feel free to add extras like sliced jalapeños or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Pairing side dishes with your Turkey Cranberry Sliders can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement these tasty bites.

1. Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed in a light vinaigrette offers freshness.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, these fries make a perfect side kick to the sliders.
3. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances the richness of the sliders.
4. Vegetable Platter: A colorful assortment of veggies with hummus provides a healthy crunch.
5. Potato Chips: Classic potato chips add crunch and can be flavored for an extra kick.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brings sweetness that pairs well with savory sliders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Turkey Cranberry Sliders can be easy, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using stale rolls: Always ensure your Hawaiian rolls are fresh. Stale rolls can ruin the texture and taste of your sliders.
• Overloading with turkey: While it’s tempting to add more turkey, too much can make the sliders messy. Stick to the recommended amount for a balanced flavor.
• Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds moisture and flavor. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste of your sliders.
• Not preheating the oven: Ensure your oven is preheated before baking. This helps achieve that perfect golden brown top and melted cheese.
• Ignoring cooling time: Let the sliders cool slightly after baking. This helps the flavors meld and makes them easier to handle.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Turkey Cranberry Sliders

• To freeze, wrap sliders individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Turkey Cranberry Sliders

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350˚F. Place sliders on a baking dish and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place one slider on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-45 seconds. Adjust time as needed for multiple sliders.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little butter, and toast each slider until heated through and golden brown on both sides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Turkey Cranberry Sliders.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for unique flavors in your Turkey Cranberry Sliders.

How do I make these sliders more flavorful?

Consider adding spices or herbs like thyme or rosemary to the turkey mixture. A touch of garlic powder can also enhance the flavor.

Can I prepare Turkey Cranberry Sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake them.

What should I serve with Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

These sliders pair well with a side salad or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite toppings or sauces. Try making these delightful sliders for dinner or any upcoming holiday gathering!