Cranberry Turkey Sliders: Your New Favorite Way to Use Leftovers

Hello, lovely cooks! You know those moments when you stare into the fridge after a big holiday meal, wondering what on earth to do with all the delicious leftovers? I’ve been there, with a baby on my hip and a rumbling tummy, facing down a mountain of turkey. That’s exactly how this magical recipe for Cranberry Turkey Sliders was born! They come together in a flash, about 23 minutes from start to finish, making them a perfect weeknight lifesaver or a fun appetizer.

Why You’ll Love These Cranberry Turkey Sliders

These aren’t just any leftover sliders; they’re a little bit special! Here’s why I think you’ll adore them:

• Speedy Assembly: Forget complicated layering. These come together in minutes, perfect for when you’re short on time but craving something comforting.
• Flavor Fusion: The sweet tang of cranberry sauce, savory turkey, and mild Swiss cheese create a harmonious bite that’s utterly irresistible.
• Cozy Comfort: Using soft Hawaiian rolls as the base makes these sliders incredibly tender and delightfully sweet – a true crowd-pleaser.
• Leftover Love: They’re the ultimate way to transform post-holiday abundance into a brand-new, exciting meal.

The Secret to Perfect Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Every great dish has a few key players, and these Cranberry Turkey Sliders are no exception! I’ve tinkered with this recipe to make sure every bite is pure comfort, and it all comes down to the thoughtful combination of simple ingredients. We’re talking about turning everyday leftovers into something truly special with just a few clever additions.

Sarah

Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Cranberry Turkey Sliders come together fast—just 23 minutes—for a sweet-savory leftover makeover with gooey Swiss on soft rolls. Bake a batch today!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 18 minutes mins

Total Time 23 minutes mins

Servings: 12 sliders

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 197

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 package Hawaiian Sweet Rolls 12-count
• 3 cups cooked turkey diced, sliced, or pulled
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 6 slices Swiss cheese
• 4 tablespoons butter melted
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard or Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon poppy seeds optional

Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• small bowl
• Pastry brush

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick foil or spray it well with cooking spray.
2. Carefully separate the Hawaiian Rolls, keeping the top and bottom portions together as much as possible. Place the bottom halves of the rolls into your prepared baking dish.
3. Evenly layer the cooked turkey over the bottom buns, followed by a generous spread of cranberry sauce. Top everything with the Swiss cheese slices.
4. Place the top halves of the rolls back onto the assembled ingredients.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, yellow mustard, garlic powder, salt, and optional poppy seeds.
6. Pour this delicious butter mixture evenly over the top of the buns. Use a pastry brush or a spoon to ensure every nook and cranny is coated.
7. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 3 minutes, uncovered, just to get the tops a lovely golden hue.
9. Serve your amazing Cranberry Turkey Sliders immediately and enjoy the magic!

Notes

While the poppy seeds are lovely, there are so many other fun ways to top these Cranberry Turkey Sliders! For a little herbaceous kick, try sprinkling some finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme over the butter mixture before baking. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a gentle warmth that plays beautifully with the sweet cranberry. If you love a bit of crunch, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds could be interesting! For a truly decadent touch, consider a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of brown sugar over the tops right before the final uncovered bake.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful sliders:

• 1 package Hawaiian Sweet Rolls (12-count)
• 3 cups cooked turkey (diced, sliced, or pulled)
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 6 slices Swiss cheese
• 4 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard (or Dijon mustard)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)

Cranberry Sauce: More Than Just a Condiment

Ah, cranberry sauce! It’s the festive star of so many tables, and it brings such a wonderful brightness to these sliders. Whether you’re a fan of the smooth, jellied kind or prefer the rustic texture of whole berries, it works beautifully here. My personal favorite for these Cranberry Turkey Sliders is a good quality whole berry sauce; the little bursts of tartness and the texture are just divine. If you have homemade cranberry sauce, that’s even better – the fresh zest and spice can add another layer of deliciousness! Don’t be afraid to use what you have; even canned sauce adds that essential sweet-tart counterpoint that makes these sliders sing.

The Perfect Roll and Cheese Pairing

The foundation of any great slider is the bread, and for these, Hawaiian sweet rolls are an absolute game-changer. Their subtle sweetness and incredibly soft texture are the perfect canvas for the savory turkey and tangy cranberry. They toast up beautifully, creating a delightful contrast between the crisp edges and the tender interior. For the cheese, Swiss cheese offers a nutty, mild flavor that complements the turkey without overpowering it. It also melts like a dream, creating that gooey, satisfying element we all love in a slider. If you’re feeling adventurous, a mild provolone or even a Monterey Jack would also make lovely alternatives for your Cranberry Turkey Sliders.

Assembling Your Delicious Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Getting these sliders ready is a breeze! We’re going to build them layer by delicious layer, making sure every component gets a chance to shine. Remember, the goal is cozy comfort, and this assembly process is designed to deliver just that.

Instructions

Let’s get these sliders assembled and baked!

1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick foil or spray it well with cooking spray.
2. Carefully separate the Hawaiian Rolls, keeping the top and bottom portions together as much as possible. Place the bottom halves of the rolls into your prepared baking dish.
3. Evenly layer the cooked turkey over the bottom buns, followed by a generous spread of cranberry sauce. Top everything with the Swiss cheese slices.
4. Place the top halves of the rolls back onto the assembled ingredients.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, yellow mustard, garlic powder, salt, and optional poppy seeds.
6. Pour this delicious butter mixture evenly over the top of the buns. Use a pastry brush or a spoon to ensure every nook and cranny is coated.
7. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 3 minutes, uncovered, just to get the tops a lovely golden hue.
9. Serve your amazing Cranberry Turkey Sliders immediately and enjoy the magic!

Elevating the Flavor: The Savory Butter Drizzle

Now, let’s talk about that magical butter mixture you pour over the top. This isn’t just melted butter; it’s a flavor-packed drizzle that truly takes these Cranberry Turkey Sliders from good to absolutely spectacular! The butter itself provides richness and helps the tops of those sweet rolls get beautifully toasted and golden. But the real stars here are the additions: a touch of mustard for a tiny bit of zing, garlic powder for savory depth, and a pinch of salt to balance everything out. If you’re feeling fancy, those optional poppy seeds add a delightful little pop and visual appeal. This simple drizzle infuses the entire slider with an irresistible savory aroma and taste.

Topping Variations for Extra Zing

While the poppy seeds are lovely, there are so many other fun ways to top these Cranberry Turkey Sliders! For a little herbaceous kick, try sprinkling some finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme over the butter mixture before baking. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a gentle warmth that plays beautifully with the sweet cranberry. If you love a bit of crunch, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds could be interesting! For a truly decadent touch, consider a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of brown sugar over the tops right before the final uncovered bake.

Making Cranberry Turkey Sliders Year-Round

While these sliders are undeniably fantastic after a holiday feast, they’re far too delicious to save for just one time of year! Think of them as your secret weapon for deliciousness any day. If you don’t have leftover Thanksgiving or Christmas turkey, no worries at all! A store-bought rotisserie chicken is a fantastic stand-in.

That same rotisserie bird is also perfect in an Easy Southwest Chicken Wrap when you need a grab-and-go lunch. Just shred the meat and warm it slightly before layering. Deli turkey, especially a good quality roasted or smoked variety, also works wonderfully. These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch, a fun weekend dinner with friends, or a delightful appetizer for game day.

Creative Additions & Customization

Want to take your Cranberry Turkey Sliders to the next level? Get creative! If you happen to have leftover stuffing, a thin layer spread over the turkey before the cranberry sauce adds an amazing, festive dimension. Similarly, a drizzle of turkey gravy over the meat can add an extra layer of moisture and savory goodness. For a touch of green, some baby spinach or arugula added just before serving can provide a fresh contrast. You could even swap out the Swiss cheese for a sharp cheddar or a creamy brie for a different flavor profile.

Tips for Slider Success

I want your Cranberry Turkey Sliders to be absolutely perfect every time! Here are a few little tips I’ve picked up:

• Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to pile everything high, avoid overstuffing the rolls. This helps them bake more evenly and makes them easier to eat.
• Soften the Rolls: If your rolls feel a little stiff, a quick spritz of water from a spray bottle before you add the fillings can help them soften up.
• Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on them during that final uncovered bake. You want them golden, not burnt! Ovens can vary, so trust your eyes.
• Even Buttering: Make sure that butter mixture coats the entire top surface of the rolls for consistent flavor and toasting.

Serving Suggestions to Complement Your Sliders

These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are wonderfully satisfying on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of sides. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. For a heartier meal, consider serving them alongside a creamy tomato soup or a comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup. If you’re leaning into the holiday vibe, a side of roasted sweet potatoes or a simple coleslaw would be delightful, and a tray of easy Christmas fudge for dessert never hurts. They’re also fantastic as part of a larger appetizer spread! For bigger appetites, a slow cooker Italian beef sandwich makes a hearty companion for game day spreads.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If, by some miracle, you have any Cranberry Turkey Sliders leftover, don’t worry! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I find the best method is to place them back in a baking dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm them in a 300°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps keep them from getting soggy. You can also reheat them individually in a toaster oven or even carefully in a microwave, though the texture might be slightly softer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Enjoy Your Delicious Cranberry Turkey Sliders!

There you have it – a simple, joyful way to transform leftovers into a meal everyone will adore! These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are proof that delicious comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. I truly hope you give them a try and find as much happiness in making and eating them as I do. They’re a little taste of cozy, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.

I’d absolutely love to hear how yours turn out! Did you add any fun extra toppings? Let me know in the comments below. Happy cooking, friends!