These turkey cranberry sliders are the perfect bite-sized treat! Made with juicy turkey patties and a dollop of sweet cranberry sauce, they’re a tasty twist on classic flavors.
Honestly, what’s not to love? They’re easy to whip up for game day or a quick lunch. I serve them with extra cranberry sauce on the side—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: I recommend using brioche rolls for their buttery flavor, but any slider bun works well! If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat mini rolls are a great choice.
Turkey: Leftover roasted turkey is perfect here! However, if you don’t have turkey, shredded chicken works too and gives a similar flavor.
Cheese: Provolone or mozzarella melts nicely, but you can substitute with cheddar or Swiss if you prefer something sharper.
Cranberry Sauce: Store-bought is super convenient, but homemade adds a personal touch. If fresh cranberries are in season, I suggest making your own sauce.
Butter: Use regular butter for a rich taste, but if you’re dairy-free, margarine or a plant-based spread can work as a substitute.
How Do You Keep the Sliders From Getting Soggy?
One common challenge with these sliders is keeping the buns from becoming soggy due to the cranberry sauce and turkey. Here are a few tips:
- Spread a thin layer of butter on the buns before adding the filling. This helps create a moisture barrier.
- Keep the cranberry sauce to a minimum, or serve some on the side rather than slathering it on.
- Toast the sliders in the oven until the cheese melts and the buns are slightly crispy. This locks in texture.
By following these steps, you’ll get that perfect balance of flavors without losing the delightful bun crunch!
Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 slider buns or small brioche rolls
- 1½ pounds cooked turkey breast, shredded or thinly sliced
- 6 slices of white cheese (such as provolone or mozzarella), halved
- ¾ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 25 minutes from start to finish to enjoy these delicious sliders!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your sliders will bake evenly and come out warm and toasty.
2. Prepare the Buns:
Carefully slice the slider buns horizontally, keeping them connected as one whole tray. This makes it easier to layer the ingredients later on.
3. Add Butter:
Pour the melted butter over the cut sides of the buns. Make sure to spread it evenly; this will add flavor and help brown the buns nicely.
4. Layer the Filling:
Now, take your shredded turkey and layer it evenly across the bottom half of the buns. Arrange it so every bite has plenty of turkey!
5. Add Cheese:
Place the halved cheese slices on top of the turkey. This will give you that gooey, melty goodness when baked.
6. Spoon on the Cranberry Sauce:
Generously spoon cranberry sauce over the cheese layers. Feel free to add more if you’re a fan of that sweet and tart flavor!
7. Season:
Sprinkle a little salt and pepper on top to enhance the flavors of the turkey and sauce.
8. Cap It Off:
Put the top halves of the buns back on to complete your sliders. They should look like a cute little roll of deliciousness!
9. Bake:
Place the tray with the sliders on a baking sheet and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are lightly toasted.
10. Slice and Garnish:
Once done, take the sliders out of the oven and let them cool for a moment. Carefully cut them apart along the seams. If you want, sprinkle a little fresh thyme on top for a touch of color and flavor.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm turkey cranberry sliders right away. You can offer some extra cranberry sauce on the side for dipping—it’s the perfect complement!
These sliders combine the savory flavor of turkey with the sweet tartness of cranberry sauce, all nestled inside soft, buttery buns. Perfect for holiday gatherings or casual snacks!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted turkey is perfect for these sliders. Just shred or slice it thin, and you’re good to go. If you don’t have leftover turkey, shredded chicken works well too!
How Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sliders up to the baking stage and cover them with foil in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven until heated through.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven for a few minutes or microwave them for a quick snack!
Can I Substitute the Cheese?
Yes! While provolone or mozzarella works great, you can use cheddar, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a little spice. Choose your favorite cheese for a personal touch!