Turkey Cranberry Sliders ready in 20 minutes Recipe

If you’re craving a quick, cozy, and bursting-with-flavor snack, these Turkey Cranberry Sliders ready in 20 minutes are exactly what you need. Imagine tender turkey paired with sweet cranberry sauce and melty cheese, all sandwiched inside soft Hawaiian rolls with a buttery, savory topping. This recipe is not just speedy but also incredibly satisfying, perfect for a last-minute appetizer, game day treat, or even a weeknight dinner. You’re going to love how effortlessly these sliders come together while delivering big holiday flavors anytime you want.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, yet each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture that make these sliders unforgettable. From the soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls to the tangy Dijon-mayo spread, every element contributes to that perfect balance you won’t want to miss.

• Hawaiian rolls (12 rolls): Their soft, pillowy texture is key for trapping all the juicy fillings inside.
• Leftover turkey or deli turkey (500 g): Provides tender, savory meat that pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy notes.
• Cranberry sauce (½ cup): Adds a bright, fruity sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the turkey.
• Grated white cheddar cheese or Havarti slices (1 cup or 6-8 slices): Melts to creamy perfection, bringing richness to each slider.
• Dijon mustard (2 tablespoons): Offers a tangy kick that enhances the overall flavor.
• Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons): Smooths out the mustard, creating a luscious spread.
• Melted butter (3 tablespoons): Brushes the top to golden brown the rolls and keep them moist.
• Everything But the Bagel seasoning (1 teaspoon): Sprinkles on top for savory, garlicky, oniony crunch that takes these sliders next-level.

How to Make Turkey Cranberry Sliders ready in 20 minutes

Step 1: Prepare Your Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally in one layer, keeping all the rolls together so you can build the sliders easily. Place the bottom half in a baking dish or sheet, creating the foundation for your delicious stack.

Step 2: Mix and Spread the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy. This spread adds a tangy layer that perfectly complements the turkey and cranberry sweetness. Spread this mixture evenly over the cut side of the bottom rolls for a delicious base.

Step 3: Build Your Sliders

Layer the sliced or shredded turkey evenly over the mustard-mayo spread. Then spoon on the cranberry sauce, ensuring generous coverage for that signature sweet-tart flavor. Top everything with the grated white cheddar or slices of Havarti cheese, distributing evenly so every bite has cheesy goodness.

Step 4: Assemble and Season

Now place the top half of the Hawaiian rolls over your layered fillings, pressing gently to hold everything in place. Brush the melted butter all over the tops, making sure to cover every roll generously. Finally, sprinkle the Everything But the Bagel seasoning evenly over the buttery tops to add a delightful savory crunch.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 10 minutes to let the cheese melt and the flavors meld together. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes to brown the tops until they’re golden and irresistible. Once out of the oven, dive right in for the best warm, gooey, and flavorful experience.

How to Serve Turkey Cranberry Sliders ready in 20 minutes

Garnishes

To elevate your Turkey Cranberry Sliders ready in 20 minutes, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or thyme over the top for a pop of color and a burst of herby freshness. A few extra dollops of cranberry sauce on the side can also be a delightful touch for cranberry lovers who want an extra sweet zing with each bite.

Side Dishes

Pair your sliders with crispy sweet potato fries or a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the sliders. A simple coleslaw or roasted Brussels sprouts can add texture and freshness, creating a meal that feels complete and thoughtfully composed.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving these at a party, consider setting up a slider bar with extra cranberry sauce, different cheese options, and a variety of greens or pickles so everyone can customize their own. You could also cut the sliders into smaller bites to create easy finger food for guests, making these sliders as fun as they are delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your sliders, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the bread soft and the fillings fresh enough for a quick reheat without losing their magic.

Freezing

You can freeze assembled but unbaked sliders by wrapping the entire dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Store in the freezer for up to one month and bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time until heated through and bubbly.

Reheating

For reheating, cover the sliders with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through and cheese is melted, about 10-15 minutes. This prevents the rolls from drying out and keeps that signature gooey texture intact.

FAQs

Can I make these Turkey Cranberry Sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them a few hours before baking and keep them refrigerated. Just let them sit out for a short while before popping them in the oven to bake, ensuring even heating.

What if I don’t have leftover turkey?

No problem at all! Deli turkey works wonderfully and keeps the preparation quick. You can also use rotisserie chicken if you prefer a slightly different twist.

Can I substitute the Hawaiian rolls with something else?

While Hawaiian rolls give that perfect soft, slightly sweet base, you can use slider buns or even small dinner rolls if needed, though the flavor and texture will change slightly.

Is there a vegetarian version of these sliders?

Definitely! Swap the turkey for a hearty grilled portobello mushroom or a plant-based deli slice. The cranberry sauce and cheese remain perfect companions for these vegetarian alternatives.

How spicy are these sliders?

These sliders have a mild tanginess from the Dijon mustard and a savory kick from the Everything But the Bagel seasoning, but they are generally mild and very approachable to all taste buds.

Final Thoughts

I promise these Turkey Cranberry Sliders ready in 20 minutes will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. They’re fun, festive, and utterly delicious with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, these sliders are a warm hug of comfort food that you can whip up at a moment’s notice. Give them a try and watch how fast they disappear!

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