Cranberry Turkey Sliders

These cranberry turkey sliders are a tasty and fun way to enjoy Thanksgiving flavors all year round! Juicy turkey patties are topped with sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, making each bite delightful.

They’re perfect for parties or cozy dinners, and let’s be real, who can resist a mini sandwich? I love making extras so I can sneak a few when no one is watching! 🦃

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Slider Buns: I recommend using small brioche rolls for their soft texture and slight sweetness. If you need alternatives, Hawaiian rolls or even whole wheat slider buns work well for a healthier option!

Turkey: Cooked turkey breast is perfect, especially leftovers from a holiday dinner. If you don’t have turkey, shredded chicken or deli turkey can work too. Ground turkey is another option if you prefer to make patties.

Cheese: Cheddar and Swiss cheese add creaminess and flavor. If you want a stronger taste, try using gouda or pepper jack for a spicy twist. Dairy-free cheese options are also available for those avoiding dairy!

Cranberry Sauce: Use homemade cranberry sauce for a fresh taste, but canned sauce is convenient and works well too. If you’re in a pinch, substitute with a fruit spread, like blueberry or raspberry.

How Can I Make Sure My Sliders Are Perfectly Warm and Cheesy?

Baking is key to achieving that gooey, melty cheese and warm insides. Here’s how to do it right:

• Preheat the oven fully before placing your sliders inside. This makes sure they heat evenly.
• Cover loosely with foil to keep moisture in, which prevents the buns from getting too crispy before the cheese has melted.
• Keep an eye on your sliders in the last few minutes! Remove the foil to get a golden brown top, but don’t let them burn.

Trust me, you’ll want the cheese melted just right while keeping the buns soft and warm. Enjoy your sliders! 🍔

Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Sliders:

• 12 slider buns or small brioche rolls
• 1 lb cooked turkey breast, thinly sliced or shredded
• 6 slices of cheddar or Swiss cheese, halved to fit sliders
• 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to bake, making it a quick and delicious option for gatherings or a cozy dinner. In total, you can whip these up in about 30 minutes!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will help your sliders bake evenly and get that lovely melty cheese.

2. Prepare the Buns:

Take the slider buns and carefully slice them in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves onto a baking sheet or shallow baking dish. This is where your delicious ingredients will build up!

3. Layer the Turkey:

Evenly layer the turkey slices over the bottom halves of the buns. Don’t be shy! Add a good portion. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper over the turkey for extra flavor.

4. Add the Cheese:

Next, take half a slice of cheese and place it on top of the turkey on each slider. This cheesy goodness will melt beautifully as they bake!

5. Spread the Cranberry Sauce:

Now, it’s time for the cranberry sauce. Spread about a tablespoon over each cheese layer. This adds a wonderful sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory turkey.

6. Top It Off:

Now, take the top halves of the buns and place them on each slider, creating a complete sandwich. They’re starting to look irresistible!

7. Butter and Thyme Mixture:

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the chopped thyme leaves, if you’re using them. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the slider buns. This will give them a lovely golden finish after baking!

8. Bake the Sliders:

Cover your baking dish loosely with foil to keep the sliders moist, then pop them in the oven for about 15 minutes. This will melt the cheese and warm everything through.

9. Brown the Tops:

After 15 minutes, carefully remove the foil and let the sliders bake for an additional 5 minutes. This will toast the top of the buns just right!

10. Serve and Enjoy:

Take the sliders out of the oven and let them cool for a minute before serving. These warm, delicious sliders are perfect for any occasion—enjoy your tasty handheld treats!

These sliders combine savory turkey with the sweet tang of cranberry sauce and melty cheese all nestled in soft, buttery buns—perfect for any get-together or comforting meal. Enjoy! 🍗✨

Can I Use Leftover Turkey for This Recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or any family dinner works perfectly. Shred or slice it thinly to make layering easier, and enjoy those delicious holiday flavors anytime!

What If I Can’t Find Slider Buns?

No worries! If slider buns aren’t available, you can use regular burger buns cut into quarters, or even make mini sandwiches with any type of bread. Just adjust the cooking time if you decide to use larger buns.

How Can I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave for a quick option—you might need to add a splash of water to keep them moist.

Can I Make These Sliders Vegetarian?

Definitely! Substitute the turkey with roasted vegetables or a plant-based protein like veggie burgers. Swap the cheese with a dairy-free alternative, and you’ve got delicious vegetarian sliders everyone can enjoy!