There's something magical about biting into a Cranberry Turkey Slider – the sweet and tangy cranberry sauce mingling with tender turkey and melty cheese, all nestled in a soft, buttery bun. These sliders are the ultimate combination of holiday flavors and comfort food in one bite-sized package.

I first discovered this recipe as a creative way to use Thanksgiving leftovers, but it quickly became a family favorite we enjoy year-round. Whether you're hosting a party, need a quick weeknight dinner, or want to wow your guests at the next potluck, these sliders are a must-try.

Why You'll Love These Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Get ready to add a new favorite to your rotation. These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are as easy to make as they are to devour.

First off, they’re perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a holiday get-together or a casual game night, these sliders are a breeze to whip up in bulk – and trust me, they disappear fast!

You’ll also love how versatile they are. Have leftover turkey? Great! Want to use deli turkey instead? No problem. These sliders adapt to whatever you have on hand.

And don’t overlook the flavor. The sweet-tart cranberry sauce perfectly complements the savory turkey and gooey cheese, while the buttery, toasted rolls add the perfect finishing touch.

Lastly, these sliders are a hit with kids and adults alike. They’re bite-sized and packed with flavor, making them a win for picky eaters and foodies in the same room.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Cranberry Turkey Sliders lies in their simplicity. Let’s break down the key ingredients that make this recipe shine:

Turkey: This recipe works wonderfully with shredded leftover turkey or sliced deli turkey. If using deli turkey, opt for oven-roasted or smoked varieties for extra flavor.
Cranberry Sauce: Both homemade and store-bought cranberry sauce work perfectly. If you’re using leftovers, consider adding a touch of orange zest to brighten the flavors.
Cheese: Melty cheeses like Swiss, provolone, or Havarti are ideal. Swiss adds a nutty richness that pairs beautifully with turkey and cranberry.
Slider Buns: Hawaiian rolls are the gold standard here. Their slight sweetness enhances the cranberry sauce and provides a soft, pillowy texture.
Butter Mixture: A mix of melted butter, garlic powder, and poppy seeds takes these sliders over the top. It ensures the buns toast to golden perfection while adding a hint of flavor.

For equipment, all you’ll need is a baking dish or sheet pan, a sharp knife for slicing buns, and a pastry brush for the butter topping.

How to Make These Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Making these sliders is a straightforward process, perfect for busy days or impromptu gatherings. Here’s how to pull it all together:

Prepare the Slider Buns: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice your slider buns in half horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms intact. Place the bottom halves in a greased baking dish.
Layer the Fillings: Spread a layer of cranberry sauce evenly across the buns. Add a generous layer of turkey, followed by slices of your chosen cheese. Replace the tops of the buns.
Brush with Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, melt butter and stir in garlic powder, poppy seeds, and a pinch of salt. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the tops of the buns with the butter mixture.
Bake: Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops of the buns are golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy: Let the sliders cool slightly before serving. Use a sharp knife to separate them into individual pieces, and watch them disappear off the plate!

Total time? About 30 minutes, including prep. The result? A pan of irresistible sliders that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, these Cranberry Turkey Sliders store beautifully:

Refrigerator: Place any leftover sliders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each slider in foil and freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, wrap sliders in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. This ensures they stay moist and delicious without overcooking.

Variations and Substitutions

These sliders are incredibly versatile, so don’t be afraid to get creative:

Ham and Cheese: Swap the turkey for ham and the cranberry sauce for Dijon mustard for a classic take on sliders.
Veggie Option: Replace the turkey with roasted veggies like sweet potatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers for a vegetarian twist.
Spicy Kick: Add a drizzle of sriracha or chipotle mayo between the turkey and cheese for some heat.
Gourmet Touch: Use brie or gruyere cheese instead of Swiss and add a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary for a more elevated flavor profile.

With endless possibilities, these sliders are a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.

Cranberry Turkey Sliders bring together the best of comfort food and crowd-pleasing flavors. Whether you're reliving Thanksgiving or just want an easy, delicious meal, these sliders are guaranteed to hit the spot. Grab your ingredients and give them a try – your taste buds will thank you!