Hawaiian rolls, leftover Thanksgiving turkey, cranberry sauce, and provolone cheese combine to create Turkey Cranberry Sliders that are perfect for any gathering. These sliders are not only easy to prepare but also burst with flavors that make them a delightful addition to your dinner table or holiday parties. Their unique combination of sweet and savory elements ensures they will be a hit with family and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and simple steps, these sliders come together quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of shredded turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and melted provolone creates a mouthwatering flavor experience.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer at parties or as a cozy dinner option; they’re incredibly adaptable!
- Perfect for Leftovers: Transform leftover turkey into something exciting rather than mundane.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These sliders are sure to impress guests, making them ideal for gatherings and celebrations.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Turkey Cranberry Sliders successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and help you achieve the best results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Whisk
- Pastry brush
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and holds all the sliders securely during baking.
- Whisk: Ideal for mixing the glaze ingredients smoothly without lumps.
- Pastry brush: Perfect for applying the glaze evenly over the rolls for extra flavor.
- Knife: A sharp knife will help you cut the rolls neatly and efficiently.

Ingredients
To make Turkey Cranberry Sliders, gather the following ingredients:
For the Sliders
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 3 cups shredded turkey (12 ounces)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 4 ounces provolone cheese (6 slices)
For the Glaze
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon everything bagel seasoning
How to Make Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C) to prepare it for baking your delicious sliders.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. Melted butter
2. Honey
3. Dijon mustard
Set this aside while you assemble the sliders.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
- Cut the sweet Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally.
- Lay the bottoms of the rolls in a baking dish.
- Cover the bottom with shredded turkey.
- Dollop cranberry sauce evenly over the turkey layer.
- Place sliced provolone cheese on top of the cranberry sauce.
Step 4: Add Glaze and Seasoning
- Place the tops back on each roll.
- Use a pastry brush to spread your prepared glaze over both the top and sides of each roll.
- Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning generously over the tops.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tops of the rolls are golden brown.
These Turkey Cranberry Sliders are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection! Enjoy every bite!
How to Serve Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Turkey Cranberry Sliders are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick dinner option, these sliders can be served in multiple delightful styles.
For Casual Gatherings
- On a Platter: Arrange the sliders on a large platter for a buffet-style meal. This allows guests to help themselves and creates an inviting atmosphere.
- With Dipping Sauces: Serve alongside extra cranberry sauce or a tangy mustard dip for added flavor.
As Party Appetizers
- Mini Skewers: Cut the sliders into smaller pieces and serve them on skewers. This makes them easy to eat while mingling.
- Garnished with Herbs: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top of each slider for an elegant touch.
For Family Dinners
- With Fresh Salad: Pair with a light side salad to balance the richness of the sliders. A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette works well.
- With Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of fries complements the turkey and cranberry flavors beautifully.
How to Perfect Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Creating the perfect Turkey Cranberry Sliders requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:
- Bold Flavor Combinations: Use sharp provolone cheese to enhance flavors. It adds depth that pairs wonderfully with cranberry sauce.
- Even Layering: Ensure that turkey and cranberry sauce are evenly distributed on each slider for consistent taste in every bite.
- Proper Baking Time: Keep an eye on the sliders as they bake. Remove them from the oven once the tops are golden brown and cheese is melted for optimal texture.
- Glaze Generously: Apply the glaze liberally over the rolls before baking; this caramelizes nicely and enhances flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for homemade cranberry sauce if possible. Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in taste.
Best Side Dishes for Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Pairing side dishes with your Turkey Cranberry Sliders can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until golden, these add crunch and a slightly bitter contrast to the sweet sliders.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides a crunchy texture that balances the softness of the sliders.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges bring sweetness that complements both turkey and cranberry flavors.
- Green Bean Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with almonds add elegance and freshness to your plate.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing palate cleanser after indulging in rich flavors.
- Potato Chips: Simple yet satisfying, serve crispy chips as an easy side that pairs well with any sandwich.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Turkey Cranberry Sliders can be a delightful experience. However, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect your results.
- Skipping the glaze: Not applying the glaze can lead to dry sliders. Always mix and brush on the butter, honey, and dijon mustard mixture for added flavor.
- Overloading on ingredients: Adding too much turkey or cranberry sauce may make the sliders difficult to handle. Stick to the recommended amounts for perfect balance.
- Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Preheat your oven to 350˚F before baking for best results.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold cheese doesn’t melt well. Allow your provolone cheese to come to room temperature before adding it to ensure it melts perfectly.
- Ignoring baking time: Each oven is different; checking early ensures you don’t overbake. Keep an eye on your sliders and remove them when the tops are golden brown.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Turkey Cranberry Sliders
- Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Turkey Cranberry Sliders
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350˚F and bake wrapped sliders for about 15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place a slider on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-45 seconds until warm, but be careful not to overcook.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, place sliders in, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Turkey Cranberry Sliders.
Can I use other types of bread?
Yes! While Hawaiian rolls are sweet and fluffy, you can use any slider buns or even whole grain bread as alternatives.
How do I customize my Turkey Cranberry Sliders?
Feel free to add different cheeses like cheddar or gouda or include toppings like spinach or arugula for added freshness.
Can I make Turkey Cranberry Sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble them ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes of baking time if they are cold from the fridge.
What can I serve with Turkey Cranberry Sliders?
These sliders pair well with side salads, vegetable sticks, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
How long do Turkey Cranberry Sliders last in the fridge?
They will remain good in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
Turkey Cranberry Sliders are an easy yet delicious option perfect for dinner or holiday gatherings. With their balance of savory turkey and sweet cranberry sauce, they appeal to many tastes. Don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite ingredients—get creative!
Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Turkey Cranberry Sliders are the ultimate comfort food, combining soft Hawaiian rolls with tender shredded turkey and sweet cranberry sauce. These easy-to-make sliders are perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive holiday celebration. The delightful blend of flavors, enhanced by melted provolone cheese and a savory glaze, makes these sliders a crowd-pleaser that your family and friends will love. Plus, they’re an excellent way to repurpose leftover turkey after Thanksgiving!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Makes 12 sliders 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 3 cups shredded turkey
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 4 ounces provolone cheese (6 slices)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon everything bagel seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, honey, and dijon mustard to create the glaze.
- Slice Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally and place the bottoms in a baking dish.
- Layer shredded turkey on the rolls, followed by dollops of cranberry sauce and slices of provolone cheese.
- Place the tops back on the rolls and brush with the glaze; sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over them.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 35mg




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