Cranberry Turkey Sliders are the perfect addition to any gathering, from holiday parties to casual get-togethers. These sliders combine juicy turkey with tangy cranberry sauce and creamy cheese, all nestled between soft Hawaiian rolls. Quick to prepare and incredibly flavorful, they are sure to impress your guests and satisfy their taste buds.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Sliders
- For the Topping
- How to Make Cranberry Turkey Sliders
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
- Step 3: Add Cranberry Sauce and Cheese
- Step 4: Mix Butter Topping
- Step 5: Bake Sliders
- Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- How to Serve Cranberry Turkey Sliders
- Pair with Fresh Salad
- Add Crunchy Chips
- Serve with Dips
- Garnish with Pickles
- Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Turkey Sliders
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Cranberry Turkey Sliders
- Reheating Cranberry Turkey Sliders
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
- How do I make Cranberry Turkey Sliders ahead of time?
- What type of cranberry sauce is best?
- Can I customize my sliders?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These sliders come together in just 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for last-minute parties.
- Flavorful Layers: The combination of turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese creates a delightful harmony of flavors.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as appetizers or pair them with sides for a hearty meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings; everyone loves a good slider!
- Adaptable Ingredients: Feel free to switch up the cheese or add extra toppings to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
To create these delicious Cranberry Turkey Sliders, you will need a few essential tools that simplify the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Knife
- Mixing bowl
- Brush for butter
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and makes it easy to serve directly from the oven.
- Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for cutting through the rolls cleanly without tearing them apart.
- Mixing bowl: Keeps your butter mixture contained while allowing you to mix ingredients thoroughly.
- Brush for butter: Helps evenly distribute the buttery garlic mixture over the sliders for a crispy top.

Ingredients
These butter-baked cranberry turkey sliders feature layers of turkey, cranberry sauce, and creamy white cheese sandwiched between sweet Hawaiian rolls.
For the Sliders
- 1 pound thick-cut deli turkey or chicken
- 6 large slices Swiss or Provolone cheese
- 1 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 package Hawaiian Dinner Rolls (12 count)
For the Topping
- 2 1/2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
- 1 teaspoon Poppy Seeds
- 2-3 cloves garlic (minced)
How to Make Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Follow these simple steps to whip up your own batch of Cranberry Turkey Sliders.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough when you’re ready to bake.
Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
Cut the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Lay down an even layer of turkey on the bottom half of each roll.
Step 3: Add Cranberry Sauce and Cheese
Spread cranberry sauce generously over the turkey. Layer Swiss or provolone cheese slices on top before placing the top half of the rolls back on.
Step 4: Mix Butter Topping
In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the rolls.
Step 5: Bake Sliders
Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for 12 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-12 minutes until golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them during this time to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked perfectly, take them out of the oven. Let cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy your Cranberry Turkey Sliders!
How to Serve Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Cranberry turkey sliders are a delightful treat perfect for any gathering or casual meal. Serving them creatively can enhance the dining experience and make your event memorable.
Pair with Fresh Salad
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette balances the richness of the sliders.
- Cranberry Spinach Salad: Incorporate spinach, walnuts, and cranberries for a festive twist that complements the sliders.
Add Crunchy Chips
- Potato Chips: Classic salty potato chips add a satisfying crunch to each bite of the sliders.
- Veggie Chips: For a healthier option, serve these colorful chips made from sweet potatoes or beets.
Serve with Dips
- Honey Mustard Dip: A sweet and tangy dip that pairs perfectly with turkey flavors.
- Creamy Ranch Dip: A cool ranch dip adds a creamy contrast to the savory sliders.
Garnish with Pickles
- Dill Pickles: Serve crispy dill pickles on the side for a tangy crunch that enhances every bite.
- Sweet Gherkins: These sweet pickles add an interesting flavor contrast to the savory turkey.
Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Pairing side dishes with cranberry turkey sliders can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet fries complement the savory flavors of the sliders.
- Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness that balances rich ingredients.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender bring color and nutrition to your plate.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of fruits like berries or melons adds a light touch alongside hearty sliders.
- Macaroni Salad: This classic side offers creaminess that pairs wonderfully with turkey flavors.
- Quinoa Salad: A nutritious quinoa salad mixed with herbs and veggies provides a flavorful alternative.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes will help you create the perfect Cranberry Turkey Sliders. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
Skipping the butter mixture: Neglecting to brush the rolls with the garlic butter mixture can lead to dry sliders. Always apply it generously for a flavorful finish.
Choosing the wrong cheese: Not using a melty cheese like Swiss or Provolone can result in a less satisfying texture. Stick to these varieties for the best outcome.
Overbaking the sliders: Leaving them in the oven too long can cause them to become hard. Keep an eye on them after removing the foil to ensure they turn golden brown but don’t burn.
Ignoring the layering technique: Failing to layer ingredients evenly can lead to uneven flavors and textures. Spread turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese thoroughly for balanced bites.
Rushing the prep time: Trying to prepare everything too quickly can lead to mistakes. Take your time while assembling your sliders for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking, to prevent sticking.
Freezing Cranberry Turkey Sliders
- Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Cranberry Turkey Sliders
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until heated through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covered, flipping occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cranberry Turkey Sliders:
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, you can substitute turkey with chicken without losing flavor. Both work well with cranberry sauce.
How do I make Cranberry Turkey Sliders ahead of time?
Prepare everything up to baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for fresh sliders.
What type of cranberry sauce is best?
Homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce both work well. Choose one that is thick enough to hold its shape during baking.
Can I customize my sliders?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other toppings like spinach or swap cheeses based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different ingredients or toppings based on your tastes. They’re perfect as appetizers or main dishes at any gathering. Try this recipe today and impress your guests!
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Cranberry Turkey Sliders
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 sliders 1x
Description
Cranberry Turkey Sliders are a delightful combination of savory turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and creamy cheese, all nestled between soft Hawaiian rolls. Perfect for any gathering, these sliders come together in just 30 minutes and are sure to impress your guests with their flavorful layers. Whether served as appetizers or a main dish, they offer a versatile option that satisfies every palate. Customize them with your favorite toppings for an extra touch!
Ingredients
- 1 pound thick-cut deli turkey or chicken
- 6 large slices Swiss or Provolone cheese
- 1 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 package Hawaiian Dinner Rolls (12 count)
- 2 1/2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- 2–3 cloves garlic (minced)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally and place the bottom halves in a baking dish.
- Layer turkey evenly on the rolls, then spread cranberry sauce on top.
- Add cheese slices over the cranberry sauce before placing the top halves of the rolls back on.
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds. Brush this mixture over the tops of the rolls.
- Cover with foil and bake for 12 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (90g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg





