Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Name: Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 Hawaiian rolls; 3 cups shredded turkey; 1 cup cranberry sauce; 4 ounces provolone cheese; 1 tablespoon melted butter; 2 teaspoons honey; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon everything bagel seasoning

Published: September 21, 2025

by Lucille

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Flavor Packed: The combination of turkey, cranberry sauce, and provolone cheese creates a delicious flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying.
Versatile Dish: Serve these sliders as an appetizer, lunch, or dinner option. They fit seamlessly into any meal plan.
Crowd-Pleaser: The sweet Hawaiian rolls combined with savory turkey are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Perfect for Leftovers: A great way to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey or any roast turkey you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking dish
Whisk
Pastry brush
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Baking dish: Essential for holding your sliders together while they bake, ensuring even cooking.
Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients smoothly when making the glaze for the rolls.
Pastry brush: Helps to evenly apply the glaze over the top of the sliders for enhanced flavor.
Knife: Useful for cutting the Hawaiian rolls in half with ease.

Ingredients

To make your Turkey Cranberry Sliders, gather the following 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 (175˚C).

Step 2: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. Melted butter
2. Honey
3. Dijon mustard

Set aside once combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Rolls

Cut the sweet Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally.
Place the bottoms of the rolls in a baking dish.
Cover with shredded turkey evenly across all bottoms.
Add dollops of cranberry sauce on top of the turkey in an even layer.
Lay slices of provolone cheese over the cranberry sauce.

Step 4: Assemble and Glaze

Place the tops back on each roll.
Use a pastry brush to spread the glaze over both tops and sides of all rolls.
Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until cheese is melted and tops are golden brown.

Enjoy your Turkey Cranberry Sliders as a delectable appetizer or main dish at your next meal!

How to Serve Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these sliders can be served in various delightful ways.

Casual Family Dinner

Serve warm right out of the oven for a comforting meal.
Pair with crispy potato wedges for a satisfying crunch.

Holiday Gatherings

Present on a festive platter for an eye-catching appetizer.
Accompany with seasonal dips like a creamy spinach dip for added flavor.

Game Day Treat

Offer as finger food during game day parties.
Pair with fresh vegetable sticks and ranch dressing for a refreshing crunch.

Picnic Delight

Pack them in lunchboxes for an easy-to-eat meal on the go.
Include fruit skewers to balance the savory flavors of the sliders.

Brunch Option

Serve alongside a light salad to keep it fresh and vibrant.
Add mimosas or sparkling water for a festive brunch atmosphere.

How to Perfect Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Creating the ultimate Turkey Cranberry Sliders is easy when you follow these tips. Each suggestion will enhance the flavor and presentation of your sliders.

Use quality rolls: Opt for fresh Hawaiian rolls to ensure a soft, sweet base that complements the turkey and cranberry.
Layer evenly: Spread the turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese in even layers to ensure each bite has all the flavors.
Customize your glaze: Experiment with different seasonings in your glaze to make it uniquely yours.
Don’t rush baking: Bake until the cheese is fully melted and the tops are golden brown for the best texture.
Cut before glazing: For enhanced flavor absorption, cut sliders before applying glaze, allowing it to seep in beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Pairing side dishes with Turkey Cranberry Sliders can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet and savory fries provide a delightful contrast to the sliders.
Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender adds color and nutrition.
Classic Coleslaw: This crunchy side offers a refreshing bite that balances the richness of the sliders.
Butternut Squash Soup: A warm bowl of soup complements the sliders well, creating a cozy meal vibe.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette dressing adds freshness without overwhelming flavors.
Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit medley can cleanse the palate and add brightness to your plate.
Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad pairs perfectly with turkey, making it a classic choice.
Pickle Platter: A selection of pickles provides tanginess that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.

These side dishes not only complement your Turkey Cranberry Sliders but also create a memorable dining experience!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

Boldly cutting rolls too early: If you cut the Hawaiian rolls before baking, they may become too dry. Wait until after baking for the best texture.
Overloading with cranberry sauce: Adding too much cranberry sauce can make the sliders soggy. Stick to an even layer to maintain balance.
Ignoring the glaze: Skipping the glaze will lead to dry tops. Always brush it on for moisture and flavor.
Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent results.
Using cold turkey: Cold turkey can prevent the cheese from melting properly. Warm it slightly before assembling your sliders.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
Place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the sliders wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Place sliders on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
Stovetop: Heat on a skillet over medium-low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Turkey Cranberry Sliders.

Can I use different rolls for Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

You can! Any soft roll will work well, but Hawaiian rolls add a nice sweetness that complements the turkey and cranberry.

How can I customize my Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

Feel free to add ingredients like lettuce, avocado, or different cheeses based on your preference.

What is the best way to serve Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

These sliders are perfect as appetizers for gatherings or as a quick family dinner. They also make great party food!

How long does it take to prepare Turkey Cranberry Sliders?

The total time is about 30 minutes, making these sliders a quick and easy meal option.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for using leftover turkey, they can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients. Give this recipe a try for your next gathering or family meal!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card