I first made these sliders after Thanksgiving as a way to repurpose leftovers, and they quickly became a family favorite. Now, they're a staple for any gathering or casual night in. With their irresistible blend of textures and flavors, these sliders are bound to be a hit. Let's dive into why you'll love this recipe!

Why You'll Love These Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Get ready to add a new go-to recipe to your lineup. These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are as easy to make as they are delicious.

First off, they're a great way to use leftovers. Whether it's Thanksgiving turkey or store-bought deli slices, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into something special.

The combination of flavors is what sets these sliders apart. The sweetness of the cranberry sauce balances perfectly with the savory turkey and melted cheese, creating a harmony that's hard to resist.

They're also ideal for entertaining. You can prep them ahead of time, bake them in batches, and serve them hot and bubbly right from the oven. Plus, their bite-sized nature makes them a hit with both kids and adults.

Finally, these sliders are incredibly versatile. You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your tastes, swapping in different cheeses, adding extra condiments, or even using different proteins. Now, let's talk ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these sliders lies in their simple ingredients, each contributing a unique flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Turkey: Whether you use leftover roasted turkey, deli slices, or even shredded rotisserie chicken, the protein is the heart of this dish. Roasted turkey gives a rich, homemade touch, while deli turkey keeps things quick and convenient.
Cranberry Sauce: This is where the tangy sweetness comes in. Homemade cranberry sauce adds a personal touch, but store-bought works perfectly too.
Cheese: I recommend Swiss cheese for its creamy texture and mild flavor that complements the turkey and cranberry. However, feel free to experiment with sharp cheddar or provolone for a different twist.
Slider Buns: Soft, buttery buns like Hawaiian rolls are ideal. Their slightly sweet flavor pairs beautifully with the cranberry sauce.
Butter and Seasonings: A simple topping of melted butter, garlic, and poppy seeds takes these sliders to the next level, adding a touch of crunch and a burst of flavor.

You’ll also need a baking dish large enough to fit your sliders snugly, ensuring the cheese melts evenly and the buns stay soft and warm.

How To Make Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Making these sliders is a breeze, and the results are nothing short of magical. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Prep the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Assemble the Sliders
Slice your slider buns in half horizontally without separating the individual rolls. Place the bottom half in your prepared baking dish. Layer turkey slices, cranberry sauce, and cheese generously on top. Add the top half of the buns to complete the sandwiches.
Add the Butter Topping
In a small saucepan, melt butter and mix in garlic powder, poppy seeds, and a pinch of salt. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the buns.
Bake Until Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the sliders cool for a minute or two before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm and gooey!

These sliders come together in just about 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy days or last-minute guests.

Storage Options

Leftovers (if you have any!) are easy to store and reheat:

Refrigeration: Place sliders in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap individual sliders in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen for a quick snack.
Reheating: To reheat, simply place sliders in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent the buns from drying out.

Variations and Substitutions

The possibilities are endless with these sliders. Here are some fun variations to try:

Ham and Swiss: Swap the turkey and cranberry for sliced ham and Dijon mustard for a classic flavor combo.
Spicy Kick: Add a layer of sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha for heat lovers.
Veggie Delight: Replace turkey with roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
BBQ Style: Use pulled pork and barbecue sauce for a smoky, Southern-inspired slider.
Cheese Lover’s Dream: Mix and match cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a melty, gooey upgrade.

Experiment with flavors and make these sliders your own – they’re practically foolproof!

These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and satisfying. Whether you're serving them for a casual gathering, holiday leftovers, or an easy weeknight meal, they’re guaranteed to please. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get ready to wow your taste buds!