Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious way to use up leftover turkey, these Cheese Cranberry Turkey Sliders are the perfect solution. Packed with flavors of creamy cheese, tart cranberries, and tender turkey, this recipe is not only easy to make but also a hit at gatherings. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, these sliders are sure to please everyone!

Key Takeaways

• Use Hawaiian rolls for a sweet touch.
• Leftover turkey works great in these sliders.
• Experiment with different cheeses for variety.
• Cranberry sauce can be homemade or store-bought.
• These sliders are perfect for parties and leftovers.

Ingredients for Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders

When it comes to making Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders, having the right ingredients is key to achieving that perfect blend of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

Choosing the Right Cheese

• White Cheddar: This cheese melts beautifully and adds a rich flavor.
• Provolone: A great alternative that also melts well and has a mild taste.
• Gouda or Havarti: These cheeses can add a unique twist to your sliders.

Selecting the Perfect Turkey

• Leftover Turkey: Use sliced turkey breast or thigh meat for the best results.
• Deli Turkey: If you don’t have leftovers, deli turkey works just fine.
• Thick Cuts: Ensure the turkey is sliced thick enough to hold up in the slider.

Cranberry Sauce Options

• Homemade Sauce: If you have leftover cranberry sauce from the holidays, this is perfect!
• Canned Whole Berry Sauce: A convenient option that still delivers great flavor.
• Chutney: For a different taste, consider using a cranberry chutney instead.

Here’s a quick overview of the ingredients:

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sliders

Making Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders is a fun and easy way to enjoy your leftovers. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious dish that everyone will love!

Preparing the Hawaiian Rolls

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Take 12 Hawaiian rolls and slice them in half horizontally, keeping them connected.
3. Spritz a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper, allowing it to hang over the sides for easy removal later.

Layering Ingredients

1. Place the bottom half of the rolls in the prepared pan.
2. Sprinkle half of the shredded white cheddar cheese (about 4 ounces) over the rolls.
3. Add a layer of 12 ounces of turkey (deli slices or leftover turkey).
4. Spoon ½ cup of cranberry sauce over the turkey, spreading it evenly.
5. Top with the remaining cheese, then place the top half of the rolls back on.
6. Brush the top with a mixture of melted butter and seasonings for extra flavor.

Baking to Perfection

1. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to get a nice golden color on top.
3. Once done, let them cool for a few minutes before slicing into individual sliders.

Variations and Substitutions

When it comes to making Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders, you have plenty of options to customize the recipe to your taste! Here are some fun variations and substitutions you can try:

Spicy Jalapeño Twist

• Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Use pepper jack cheese instead of Swiss for extra heat.
• Consider mixing in some hot sauce with the cranberry sauce for a zesty flavor.

Bacon and Cheese Delight

• Layer crispy bacon strips on top of the turkey for added crunch.
• Swap out the cheese for a sharp cheddar or gouda for a richer taste.
• Drizzle a bit of ranch dressing on top before baking for a creamy finish.

Italian Style Sliders

• Replace turkey with sliced Italian meats like salami or pepperoni.
• Use mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce instead of cranberry sauce.
• Add fresh basil or spinach for a fresh touch.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you find yourself missing an ingredient, here are some easy swaps:

• Cheese: If you don’t have Swiss, try Havarti, provolone, or cheddar.
• Cranberry Sauce: Use prepared cranberry sauce or even a chutney for a different flavor.
• Rolls: While Hawaiian rolls are sweet and soft, you can use regular dinner rolls if you prefer less sweetness.

With these variations and substitutions, you can create a slider that’s perfect for any occasion!

Tips for the Best Sliders

Pre-Cutting the Rolls

To make your life easier, slice the rolls in half horizontally while they are still together. This way, you can keep the sliders intact and avoid any mess during assembly.

Whisking the Butter Mixture

When preparing the brown butter, keep an eye on it as it cooks. Stir often to prevent the milk solids from burning. You want it to be golden brown, which adds a ton of flavor to your sliders.

Crisping the Tops

For a delightful crunch, brush the tops of the sliders with the brown butter mixture before baking. This will help them crisp up nicely in the oven.

Quick Tips:

• Use parchment paper in your baking dish to easily lift the sliders out after baking.
• If you want to add a twist, consider using different cheeses like Havarti or cheddar for a bolder flavor.
• For a fun variation, try adding spicy jalapeños or crispy bacon to your sliders!

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Pairing with Sides

When you serve your Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders, consider pairing them with:

• A light fall salad
• Crispy potato chips
• Sweet potato fries

These sides complement the flavors of the sliders perfectly!

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover sliders, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This way, you can enjoy them later without losing their delicious taste.

Reheating Tips

To reheat your sliders:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Wrap the sliders in foil to keep them moist.
3. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until they are warm throughout.

When to Serve Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders are not just a delicious treat; they are also perfect for various occasions. These sliders are a fantastic way to enjoy your holiday leftovers! Here are some great times to serve them:

Perfect for Holiday Leftovers

• After Thanksgiving or Christmas, when you have extra turkey and cranberry sauce.
• A fun way to bring new life to your holiday meals.
• Great for using up those last bits of food without waste.

Ideal for Game Day

• Perfect finger food for watching your favorite sports.
• Easy to prepare and serve, making them a hit at any gathering.
• Pair them with chips or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Great for Family Gatherings

• A crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
• Easy to make in large batches, so you can feed a big group.
• Fun for kids and adults alike, making it a family favorite.

Final Thoughts on Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders

In conclusion, these Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Sliders are a fantastic way to enjoy your Thanksgiving leftovers. They are easy to make and full of flavor, combining turkey, cheese, and cranberry sauce on soft Hawaiian rolls. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them for a cozy dinner at home, these sliders are sure to please everyone. Don’t forget to get creative with your ingredients and make them your own! Enjoy your cooking and happy eating!

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of rolls should I use for these sliders?

You can use Hawaiian rolls, slider buns, or even leftover dinner rolls for your sliders.

Can I use deli turkey instead of leftover turkey?

Yes, deli turkey works great for these sliders if you don’t have leftovers.

What cheese melts best for these sliders?

White cheddar or Havarti cheese are great choices because they melt nicely.

How do I store leftover sliders?

Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.

Can I make these sliders spicy?

Absolutely! You can add jalapeños or hot sauce to give them a spicy kick.

When is the best time to serve these sliders?

These sliders are perfect for holiday gatherings, game days, or any family get-together.