Cranberry Turkey Sliders Delight

These Cranberry Turkey Sliders combine tender oven-roasted turkey, tangy whole berry cranberry sauce, and melty gouda and cheddar cheeses all nestled between soft Hawaiian sweet rolls. Brushed with a flavorful butter, chive, and poppy seed mixture then baked to golden perfection these sliders are an irresistible handheld treat perfect for holidays game days or casual gatherings.

I first made these while hosting a football game party and they disappeared before halftime. Now they are always requested during the holidays.

Ingredients

• Cooking spray: for easy cleanup and to keep the sliders from sticking to the pan
• Hawaiian sweet rolls: soft and slightly sweet perfect for sliders
• Oven-roasted turkey: one pound of deli-style or Thanksgiving leftovers for convenience and flavor
• Whole berry cranberry sauce: one cup for a tart sweetness and texture contrast
• Gouda: four ounces thinly sliced for a smooth creamy melt with a hint of nuttiness
• Mild cheddar: four ounces thinly sliced to add sharpness and depth
• Unsalted butter: three tablespoons softened to create the rich topping without extra saltiness
• Sliced chives: two tablespoons fresh for brightness and mild onion flavor
• Poppy seeds: half a teaspoon for crunch and visual appeal
• Onion powder: quarter teaspoon to enhance savory notes
• Worcestershire sauce: quarter teaspoon adds umami and a subtle tang

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 13 x 9 baking dish liberally with cooking spray to ensure nothing sticks during baking. This also helps the sliders brown evenly.

Slice Rolls and Add Fillings:

Place the entire bag of Hawaiian rolls on a cutting board keeping them attached. Using a long serrated bread knife cut horizontally through the middle carefully leaving the buns connected as a whole. Set the top half aside. On the bottom half evenly layer the thinly sliced turkey all over the rolls. Spread the whole berry cranberry sauce carefully over the turkey ensuring some tart flavor in each bite. Layer the slices of gouda and cheddar cheese over the cranberry sauce to cover completely. Place the top half of the rolls back on closing the sliders.

Prepare Butter Mixture:

In a medium microwave-safe bowl melt the softened butter by microwaving it until fully liquid but not hot. Stir in the sliced chives poppy seeds onion powder and Worcestershire sauce mixing thoroughly to combine all flavors.

Brush Sliders and Sprinkle Toppings:

Use a pastry brush to generously coat the tops of the sliders with the butter mixture making sure every roll has some coverage. Sprinkle a little extra poppy seeds on top for added texture and a pretty finish. Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil to trap moisture and ensure the filling heats through without drying out the rolls.

Bake the Sliders:

Bake the covered sliders in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then carefully remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly. Watch closely as ovens vary in heat.

Serve:

Transfer the sliders carefully to a serving platter and garnish with a little extra chopped chives for a burst of color and freshness just before serving. These are best enjoyed warm.

My favorite ingredient is definitely the poppy seed butter topping. It adds such an unexpected crunch and flavor that elevates these sliders from ordinary to special. Preparing these for family game nights soon became a little tradition with everyone eager to dip into that buttery goodness.

Storage Tips

To store leftovers place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently wrapped in foil in a 350 degree oven to restore softness without drying out. You can also separate the slider portions and microwave them individually but they may lose some texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have gouda try smoked mozzarella for a different but delicious smoky flavor. Sharp Swiss cheese also melts well. For the cranberry sauce you can use homemade sauce or a berry jam if you want a sweeter option. If poppy seeds are unavailable sesame seeds can be a mild alternative for texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sliders alongside a crisp green salad with a bright vinaigrette or roasted root vegetables for a complete meal. They also pair wonderfully with soft pretzels or kettle chips for a casual game day platter. A dollop of extra cranberry sauce or a small dish of mustard adds nice dips for contrast.

This recipe brings comfort and flavor together perfectly making it a must-try for your next gathering.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What type of turkey works best for these sliders?

Thinly sliced deli-style oven-roasted turkey or leftover Thanksgiving turkey provide tender, flavorful layers perfect for the sliders.

→ Can I use different cheeses instead of gouda and cheddar?

Yes, mild cheeses that melt well like mozzarella or Monterey Jack can be used to maintain creaminess and balance the cranberry's tang.

→ What is the purpose of the butter topping?

The butter mixture brushed on top adds richness, moisture, and a subtle blend of chives, poppy seeds, and seasoning that enhances flavor and browning.

→ How should the sliders be baked for best results?

Cover the sliders with foil and bake initially to keep moisture in, then uncover to brown the buns and melt the cheese for a perfect finish.

→ Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the sliders and refrigerate before baking. Bring to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking and flavor development.