Name: Cheesy Turkey Sliders Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (12 count) package Hawaiian sweet rolls, sliced in half; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup cranberry sauce; 12 deli white turkey meat slices (or shredded leftover turkey meat); 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1/8 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon pepper (or to taste); 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and melty goodness, these Cheesy Turkey Sliders are about to become your new go-to comfort food. Bursting with tender turkey slices, creamy mayo, zesty cranberry sauce, and loads of gooey mozzarella cheese all hugged by soft Hawaiian sweet rolls, this dish carries the kind of warmth and flavor that makes any gathering instantly better. Whether for a quick family dinner or a fun party appetizer, the Cheesy Turkey Sliders deliver delight in every bite and will quickly earn their spot in your recipe rotation.

Cheesy Turkey Sliders Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting these Cheesy Turkey Sliders just right starts with some simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a specific role, from adding creaminess and tanginess to the perfect amount of cheesy richness that makes this sandwich irresistible.

Hawaiian sweet rolls: Their soft, slightly sweet texture balances the savory fillings beautifully and keeps the sliders tender.

Mayo: Adds creaminess and moisture so each bite feels luscious and smooth.
Cranberry sauce: Offers a vibrant sweet-tart zing that brightens up the turkey and cheese combo.

Deli white turkey meat slices: The star protein that’s mild-flavored but hearty enough to fill you up—leftover shredded turkey works wonderfully, too.
Mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly, creating that dreamy, stretchy layer of cheesy goodness.

Unsalted butter: Brushed over the rolls for richness and to help the poppy seeds stick, while adding a golden finish.
Garlic powder: Infuses a subtle savory depth, making those buttery tops absolutely crave-worthy.
Salt and pepper: Season everything just right to enhance all the other flavors without overpowering them.

Poppy seeds: Add a nutty crunch and an elegant look that makes these sliders look as amazing as they taste.

How to Make Cheesy Turkey Sliders

Step 1: Preheat and prepare the pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s ready for that perfect bake. Then, line a 9×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and give it a quick spray with cooking spray to keep your sliders from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Slice the sweet rolls

Grab a long serrated knife, and carefully slice the entire pack of Hawaiian sweet rolls in half horizontally. It’s important not to pull the rolls apart individually, as keeping them connected makes assembling and baking much easier.

Step 3: Layer the bottom of the sliders

Place the bottom half of the rolls in your prepared pan in one solid piece. Spread a thin layer of mayo evenly across the whole bottom layer—it’ll keep the sliders moist. Next, spread cranberry sauce over the mayo, making sure every bite gets that lovely zing.

Step 4: Add cheese and turkey

Sprinkle one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the cranberry sauce so it melts perfectly into those sweet-tart flavors. Then, layer on the turkey slices, covering every inch with tender, flavorful meat. Finish this step by sprinkling the remaining cup of mozzarella evenly on top of the turkey.

Step 5: Top with the second half and brush butter

Carefully place the top half of the rolls over the cheese layer, pressing them down gently to keep everything in place. In a separate bowl, melt your butter and whisk in garlic powder for a buttery garlicky touch. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the top of the rolls and use a pastry brush to spread it out. Don’t forget to sprinkle poppy seeds on top—they add that final pop of texture and charm.

Step 6: Bake and finish

Cover your pan tightly with aluminum foil and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese has fully melted and things are heated through. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 3 to 5 minutes so the top gets that golden, slightly toasted look. Once out of the oven, let your Cheesy Turkey Sliders rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing into individual portions—finally ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Cheesy Turkey Sliders

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme elevates these sliders beautifully by adding a fresh, green burst to each melty bite. You can also add a few extra poppy seeds or a light drizzle of cranberry sauce on the side for an eye-catching garnish that invites everyone to dig in.

Side Dishes

These Cheesy Turkey Sliders pair wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple green salad or coleslaw to balance the richness. For something a little heartier, try serving them alongside oven-roasted sweet potato fries or classic kettle-cooked chips for that satisfying crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Arrange your sliders on a rustic wooden board or a vibrant platter, and add small bowls of gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping. For an informal party, you can offer toothpicks in each slider to make it easy to pick them up and enjoy without fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your leftover Cheesy Turkey Sliders are just as good the next day! Simply cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days, making for a quick and tasty lunch or snack.

Freezing

If you want to keep these sliders longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap them well in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When frozen, they can last up to two months, perfect for meal prepping or saving for later indulgences.

Reheating

To enjoy your Cheesy Turkey Sliders after storage or freezing, reheat them in a 350-degree oven for about 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty once again. Avoid microwaving if you can, as baking helps preserve the soft roll texture and keeps the sliders tasting fresh.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Absolutely! While mozzarella melts beautifully and has a mild flavor, you can swap it for provolone, cheddar, or even pepper jack if you want a little extra kick. Just choose a cheese that melts well for that gooey slider experience.

Can I make these sliders vegetarian?

Yes! You can easily make vegetarian Cheesy Turkey Sliders by replacing the turkey with hearty grilled vegetables, mushrooms, or plant-based deli slices. The cranberry sauce and cheese keep things flavorful and satisfying.

Is it necessary to use Hawaiian sweet rolls?

Hawaiian sweet rolls work great because of their soft texture and hint of sweetness, but you can substitute with any soft slider buns or dinner rolls you have on hand. Just make sure they’re not too dense so the layers stay tender.

Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time and bake just before serving?

Definitely! Assemble the sliders the day before, cover tightly, and store in the fridge. On the day of serving, drizzle with the butter mixture and bake as directed for a freshly made taste with minimal effort.

What dipping sauces go best with Cheesy Turkey Sliders?

Gravy is a classic pairing, especially if you’re serving these sliders as a leftover turkey meal. Cranberry sauce, mustard, or even a spicy aioli can add exciting flavor contrast and elevate your slider experience.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the way these Cheesy Turkey Sliders come together—simple ingredients transforming into a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect any time of year. I hope you give this recipe a try and find yourself falling in love with that irresistible combo of sweet rolls, juicy turkey, tangy cranberry, and melty cheese just like I did. Trust me, once you try these sliders, you’ll be reaching for them again and again!