These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are perfect for a festive bite! With juicy turkey burgers topped with tart cranberry sauce, they are both sweet and savory in every morsel.
You can whip these up in no time, making them a hit at gatherings. Plus, they’re small enough to enjoy without feeling guilty—my kind of treat! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: Soft brioche or Hawaiian rolls work best for these sliders. Their sweetness complements the turkey and cranberry beautifully. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole grain sliders could also work.
Turkey: Using cooked turkey, such as rotisserie or leftover turkey, saves time and adds flavor. If you don’t have turkey, chicken could be a great substitution, or even a plant-based turkey alternative for vegetarians.
Cheese: Swiss or provolone cheese adds a creamy texture. If you’re a cheddar fan, feel free to swap it in! For a lighter version, reduced-fat cheese works well too.
Cranberry Sauce: I love whole berry cranberry sauce for its texture, but if you prefer a smoother version, go for jellied sauce. You can even make your own for a personal touch!
Butter: Brushing melted butter on the buns adds richness. For a dairy-free option, use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
How Do I Ensure the Perfect Melted Cheese?
Melting cheese on sliders is key to a delicious final product. Here’s how to get it right:
- Preheat your oven to allow the cheese to melt evenly.
- Cover the sliders loosely with aluminum foil. This traps heat and moisture, helping the cheese melt without burning the buns.
- Watch carefully during the last few minutes of baking. You’ll want it gooey but not overdone!
Letting the sliders rest for a minute after baking improves the texture, too, making them easier to handle when served.
Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (preferably soft brioche or Hawaiian-style)
- 1 lb cooked turkey breast, sliced or shredded (can use rotisserie or leftover turkey)
- 8 oz sliced Swiss cheese or provolone cheese
- 3/4 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned, whole berry preferred)
For the Topping:
- 2 tbsp butter, melted (for brushing buns)
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish and flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 10-12 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll have these delicious sliders ready in about 25-30 minutes. Perfect for a quick meal or to impress guests at your next gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the sliders will warm up perfectly while baking.
2. Prepare the Buns:
Carefully slice the slider buns in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom for each slider. Place all the bottom halves on a baking sheet, ready to be loaded with tasty fillings.
3. Layer the Turkey:
Evenly layer the sliced or shredded turkey across the bottom halves of the buns. Try to cover them completely for a hearty bite!
4. Add the Cheese:
Place a slice of cheese on top of the turkey on each slider. The cheese will melt beautifully and hold everything together.
5. Spoon on the Cranberry Sauce:
Generously spoon cranberry sauce over the cheese. This adds a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the turkey.
6. Assemble the Sliders:
Top each slider with the other half of the buns, creating complete sandwiches. Simple and satisfying!
7. Brush with Butter:
Brush the tops of the buns with melted butter and sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over them if you like. A pinch of salt and pepper can enhance the flavors even more!
8. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the sliders loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sliders are warmed through.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Take them out of the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve warm, garnished with additional fresh thyme if you’d like. Enjoy your delicious, festive cranberry turkey sliders!
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen turkey, but make sure to thaw it completely before using. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quicker thaw. Once thawed, slice or shred as needed!
How Can I Make These Sliders in Advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the sliders a few hours ahead of time and keep them in the fridge, just covered with foil. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven as directed. This is great for hosting or meal prep!
What are the Best Storage Tips for Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven to keep the buns soft, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry. Just be cautious not to overheat to avoid a rubbery texture!
Can I Substitute the Cranberry Sauce?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of cranberry sauce, consider using BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile, or even a fruit chutney for a similar sweet-tangy element. Just adjust the quantity to your taste!