Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are a delightful way to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey while creating a dish that shines at any gathering. These sliders combine sweet Hawaiian rolls, tangy cranberry sauce, and creamy cheese for a tasty treat that’s perfect for dinner or festive parties. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, these sliders will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Utilize leftover turkey creatively and reduce food waste while enjoying delicious flavors.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of sweet, savory, and cheesy makes these sliders irresistible to guests of all ages.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as an appetizer, lunch, or dinner; they fit perfectly into any occasion.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out ingredients or add extras like spinach or different cheeses for a twist on the classic.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Turkey Cranberry Sliders, gather your tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Whisk
• Small bowl
• Pastry brush
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and easy serving of your sliders.
• Whisk: Ideal for mixing the glaze smoothly without clumps.
• Pastry brush: Helps apply the glaze evenly over the slider tops for enhanced flavor.

Ingredients

For these delectable Turkey Cranberry Sliders, you will need:

• 12 Hawaiian rolls
• 3 cups shredded turkey (12 ounces see note)
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 4 ounces provolone cheese (6 slices)
• 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 step is crucial as it prepares the oven for baking your sliders evenly.

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 for later use.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

1. Cut the sweet Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally.
2. Lay the bottoms of the rolls in a baking dish.
3. Cover with shredded turkey evenly across the bottom.
4. Dollop cranberry sauce on top of the turkey layer.
5. Layer sliced provolone cheese over the cranberry sauce.

Step 4: Apply Glaze and Seasoning

Place the tops back on the rolls. Use a pastry brush to spread the glaze over both the top and sides of each roll. Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over them for added flavor. For extra infusion of flavor, consider cutting between each slider before brushing on the glaze—this step is optional but highly recommended!

Step 5: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 18-22 minutes or until you see that the cheese has melted and tops are golden brown. Enjoy your delicious Turkey Cranberry Sliders fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering, these sliders will impress your guests.

Casual Gatherings

• Enjoy warm sliders straight from the oven for a comforting snack.
• Pair with potato chips or veggie sticks for a simple and satisfying combo.

Holiday Parties

• Serve on a festive platter with seasonal decorations to create an inviting atmosphere.
• Offer small plates and napkins for easy snacking as guests mingle.

Game Day

• Set up a slider bar where guests can customize their own with extra toppings like pickles or jalapeños.
• Include sides like nachos or buffalo wings to make it a full feast.

Lunchboxes

• Pack cold sliders in lunchboxes for kids or adults, adding fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
• Wrap individually for easy grab-and-go options during busy weekdays.

Family Dinners

• Serve alongside a light salad to balance the richness of the sliders.
• Make it a fun family tradition by allowing everyone to help assemble their own sliders.

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How to Perfect Turkey Cranberry Sliders

To make the best Turkey Cranberry Sliders, consider these helpful tips to elevate your dish and ensure maximum flavor.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly made cranberry sauce if possible; it adds brightness and depth of flavor.
• Layer Wisely: Spread turkey, cranberry, and cheese evenly to ensure every bite is deliciously balanced.
• Don’t Skip the Glaze: The butter mixture not only adds flavor but also helps achieve that golden-brown finish on top.
• Experiment with Cheese: While provolone works well, feel free to swap it out with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for different tastes.
• Adjust Seasoning: If you love herbs, consider adding fresh thyme or rosemary into the glaze for additional aroma and flavor.
• Cut Before Baking: Pre-slicing the rolls allows flavors to permeate better while baking, resulting in tastier sliders.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Pairing your Turkey Cranberry Sliders with complementary side dishes enhances the overall meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These add a sweet crunch that contrasts nicely with the savory sliders. Bake them until golden brown for best results.
2. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the sliders. Prepare ahead of time and chill before serving.
3. Mixed Green Salad: Toss together leafy greens, nuts, and cranberries with a light vinaigrette for a fresh side that won’t overpower your main dish.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly bitter taste complements sweet flavors beautifully. Roast them until crispy for added texture.
5. Macaroni Salad: A classic side that is creamy and filling; make it with elbow macaroni, mayo, and diced veggies for color and taste.
6. Potato Salad: This hearty option is great served cold or at room temperature; add mustard for an extra kick!
7. Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast, bringing sweetness without heaviness.
8. Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies with ranch dip provide crunch and color while being healthy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Turkey Cranberry Sliders even more delicious. Here are a few tips:

• Not Preheating the Oven: Make sure your oven is preheated to 350˚F before baking. This ensures even cooking and perfect cheese melting.
• Skipping the Glaze: The glaze adds flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste of the sliders.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Using cold turkey or cheese can prevent them from melting properly. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before assembly.
• Overcrowding the Baking Dish: If your baking dish is too small, the sliders may not cook evenly. Use a larger dish if needed to give them space.
• Not Covering with Foil: If you notice the tops are browning too quickly, cover them with foil during baking to prevent burning while allowing the insides to cook.

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Container: Use a glass or plastic container that seals well to maintain freshness.

Freezing Turkey Cranberry Sliders

• Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
• Container: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Turkey Cranberry Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350˚F, cover with foil, and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, cover with a lid to help melt the cheese, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

You can add different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for extra flavor. Also, try adding sautéed onions or spinach for added veggies.

Can I use fresh turkey instead of leftover turkey?

Absolutely! Cooked fresh turkey works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure it’s shredded or sliced thinly.

What other sauces can I use instead of cranberry sauce?

You could try using apple sauce or barbecue sauce as a fun alternative to cranberry sauce.

Are Turkey Cranberry Sliders good for parties?

Yes! These sliders are great finger foods that are easy to serve at parties and gatherings. They’re sure to be a hit!

How do I make these sliders ahead of time?

You can prepare the slider assembly ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Simply bake just before serving!

Final Thoughts

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are not only easy to make but also versatile enough for various occasions, from dinner to holiday parties. Feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients for a personal touch. Give this delicious recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!