Turkey Cranberry Sliders are small sandwiches packed with big flavors. They usually have tender turkey, a tangy cranberry sauce, and soft slider buns that make every bite just right. The combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberry creates a perfect mix that feels just right for any time you want something tasty but not too heavy.
I love making these sliders for family gatherings or casual get-togethers because they’re easy to hold and eat, plus everyone always asks for seconds. Sometimes I add a slice of melty cheese or a little bit of mayo to make them even more delicious. They’re a quick way to enjoy those classic holiday flavors anytime you want without all the fuss of a big meal.
These sliders are also great when I’m in a hurry but still want a satisfying bite. I often serve them with some simple sides like chips or a salad, keeping everything relaxed and fun. They remind me of cozy holiday moments, but they’re tasty enough to enjoy all year round!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey: Using cooked turkey breast works best here. If you don’t have turkey, leftover chicken or even ham can be tasty substitutes. I like shredded turkey for easy layering, but sliced works great too.
Cranberry Sauce: This adds the perfect sweet-tart balance. You can use store-bought for convenience or homemade for a fresher taste. If you prefer less sweetness, try mixing the sauce with a little orange juice or zest.
Cheese: Provolone or Swiss are classic choices here because they melt nicely and won’t overpower the flavors. If you want a sharper flavor, try cheddar or gouda.
Buns: Soft dinner rolls or Hawaiian rolls give that perfect fluffy and slightly sweet bite. If you can’t find sliders, mini burger buns or small kaiser rolls could work too.
Stuffing: Optional but adds extra flavor and texture. Use your favorite store-bought mix or homemade bread stuffing. Skip it if you want a lighter sandwich.
How Do You Get Soft, But Toasty Slider Buns with Great Flavor?
Brushing the buns with melted butter mixed with thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper before baking gives them a flavorful, golden crust. Here’s how to do it for best results:
- Mix softened butter with herbs and spices to spread flavor evenly.
- Brush both the tops of the slider buns before baking so they absorb the flavor and get beautifully toasty.
- Cover sliders with foil during baking to keep the buns soft and warm while the cheese melts.
- Remove foil near the end to brown the tops slightly for texture and color.
This simple step is what makes the sliders feel fresh and special, balancing the soft inside with a little crisp on top. I always make sure to do this and it lifts the whole sandwich!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish (9×13-inch works well) – I prefer this size because it fits the sliders snugly and cooks evenly.
- Sharp knife – for slicing the buns and turkey evenly. A serrated knife makes it easier to cut soft bread without squishing it.
- Brush or spoon – to spread the melted butter mixture over the buns for a golden, flavorful top.
- Aluminum foil – helps keep the sliders moist while baking and makes cleanup easier.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheese options – swap provolone for Brie or pepper jack for a different flavor twist.
- Veggie toppings – add sliced pickles, spinach, or arugula for extra crunch and freshness.
- Spice it up – stir in a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the cranberry sauce or butter for a little heat.
- Extra flavor – spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard under the turkey or cheese for a tangy kick.
Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (soft dinner rolls or Hawaiian rolls work well)
- 2 cups cooked turkey breast, sliced or shredded
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 6 slices provolone or Swiss cheese, halved
- 1 cup stuffing (store-bought or homemade, optional)
For the Butter Topping:
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh thyme for garnish)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of baking time. It’s a quick and easy dish to make, perfect for when you want a tasty homemade treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sliders:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice your slider buns in half horizontally and arrange the bottom halves in a baking dish. If you’re using stuffing, spread it evenly over the bottom buns.
2. Add Turkey, Cranberry, and Cheese:
Layer the sliced or shredded turkey evenly over the stuffing or directly on the bottom buns if you’re skipping stuffing. Spoon a generous amount of cranberry sauce on top of the turkey, then place half slices of cheese over the cranberry sauce for delicious melty goodness.
3. Top and Butter the Buns:
Place the top halves of the slider buns over the cheese. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush this flavored butter evenly over the tops of the buns to give them a tasty and golden finish.
4. Bake and Serve:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sliders are heated through. Remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes to lightly brown the tops of the buns. Garnish with fresh thyme if you like, then serve warm and enjoy your delicious turkey cranberry sliders!
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for These Sliders?
Yes, you can! Just make sure the turkey is completely thawed before assembling the sliders. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker thawing.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the sliders and cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few minutes if baking from cold.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep the buns soft and cheese melty.
Can I Customize the Cheese or Add Extra Ingredients?
Definitely! Try swapping provolone for cheddar, gouda, or Brie. You can also add a layer of spinach, pickles, or a smear of mustard for extra flavor.