Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Hawaiian rolls, leftover Thanksgiving turkey, cranberry sauce, and provolone cheese come together in these delightful Turkey Cranberry Sliders. Perfect for any occasion, these sliders are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving them for a casual dinner or at a festive gathering, their unique combination of ingredients makes them a standout choice. You’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, these sliders are perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of sweet cranberry sauce and savory turkey creates a mouth-watering taste sensation.
• Versatile Serving: Ideal as an appetizer, lunch, or dinner option, these sliders fit any meal scenario.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Their delicious taste makes them a hit at parties and gatherings; everyone will want the recipe!
• Easy Cleanup: Baking in one dish means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand will streamline your preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and helps keep the sliders together during baking.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for mixing your glaze, making it easier to incorporate ingredients evenly.
• Whisk: Perfect for achieving a smooth glaze without lumps.
• Pastry brush: Helps apply the glaze evenly over the rolls for added flavor.

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 to get it ready for baking those delicious sliders.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, and dijon mustard until well combined. Set this aside for later use.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Cut the sweet Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves in your prepared baking dish.
– Cover with the shredded turkey evenly.
– Add dollops of cranberry sauce on top of the turkey.
– Lay down slices of provolone cheese over the cranberry sauce.

Step 4: Apply the Glaze

Put the tops back on each roll. Use your pastry brush to spread the glaze generously over both the top and sides of each roll.
– Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top for that extra flavor boost.
– If desired, cut between each sandwich before glazing; this allows more flavor to seep into each slider.

Step 5: Bake

Place your assembled sliders in the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes or until the cheese melts and tops turn golden brown. Enjoy!

How to Serve Turkey Cranberry Sliders

These Turkey Cranberry Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to complement your gatherings or meals.

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve warm alongside a fresh green salad for a wholesome meal that satisfies everyone.

Holiday Parties

• Arrange sliders on a festive platter with toothpicks for easy serving at holiday gatherings.

Game Day Snacking

• Pair with crunchy veggie sticks and a creamy dip for a perfect game day treat.

Potluck Contributions

• Bring these sliders to potlucks; they’re always a crowd-pleaser and easy to transport.

Late-Night Snacks

• Enjoy leftover sliders as a quick late-night snack, warmed up for extra comfort.

How to Perfect Turkey Cranberry Sliders

To elevate your Turkey Cranberry Sliders, consider these helpful tips that will enhance flavor and presentation.

• Use fresh rolls: Opt for the freshest Hawaiian rolls you can find to ensure that the sliders are soft and delicious.
• Layer thoughtfully: When assembling, layer the turkey and cranberry sauce evenly for balanced flavor in every bite.
• Experiment with cheese: Feel free to use different cheese varieties such as cheddar or mozzarella for a unique twist.
• Add greens: Incorporate spinach or arugula between the layers for added color and nutrition.
• Adjust the glaze: Customize the butter glaze by adding garlic powder or herbs for an extra kick of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Pairing side dishes with your Turkey Cranberry Sliders can enhance the dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the sliders perfectly.

2. Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, sweet potato fries add a delightful touch of sweetness.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrients to your plate, balancing out flavors beautifully.

4. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, making it an excellent sidekick to rich sliders.

5. Potato Chips
   Classic salty potato chips provide a satisfying crunch alongside your sliders, perfect for casual meals.

6. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and brightness, making it a great contrast to savory sliders.

7. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is simple yet flavorful, enhancing any summer gathering.

8. Baked Beans
   Sweet baked beans bring warmth and comfort, pairing well with turkey flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Turkey Cranberry Sliders can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect your results.

• Skipping the glaze: The glaze made from butter, honey, and dijon mustard adds flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste.
• Not using enough cheese: Cheese adds creaminess to your sliders. Ensure you have a generous layer for the best flavor experience.
• Overbaking the sliders: Keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaking can lead to dry sliders instead of perfectly melted cheese and soft rolls.
• Ignoring seasoning: Everything bagel seasoning gives extra flavor. Don’t overlook this step; it makes a big difference in taste.
• Cutting rolls unevenly: For uniform sliders, cut the rolls evenly before assembling. This ensures equal portions for everyone.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Turkey Cranberry Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Turkey Cranberry Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place sliders on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual sliders on a microwave-safe plate for about 30-45 seconds, checking periodically.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Turkey Cranberry Sliders.

Can I use fresh turkey instead of leftovers?

Yes! You can use freshly cooked turkey. Just ensure it’s shredded and seasoned well before assembly.

How do I make Turkey Cranberry Sliders ahead of time?

Prepare the sliders up to the baking step, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready.

What kind of cheese works best for Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

Provolone is great, but you can also use mozzarella or cheddar based on your preference.

Can I customize my Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

Absolutely! Feel free to add additional toppings like spinach or replace cranberry sauce with other fruit spreads.

How do I know when my sliders are done?

The sliders are ready when the cheese is melted and the tops of the rolls are golden brown.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile for various occasions. They can be served as a quick dinner or an impressive appetizer at parties. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or sauces to make this recipe your own!