There's something irresistibly festive about the combination of juicy turkey, tart cranberry sauce, and warm, buttery rolls. These cranberry turkey sliders are the perfect way to bring a touch of holiday cheer to your table, whether you're hosting a gathering or just craving a quick and satisfying snack.
I first discovered this recipe while looking for creative ways to use up Thanksgiving leftovers. What started as a simple experiment quickly turned into a family favorite that we now enjoy year-round. Let's dive into what makes these sliders so special.
Why You'll Love This Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe
Get ready to meet your new go-to recipe for effortless entertaining and quick meals. These sliders are more than just delicious—they're a crowd-pleaser that’s as versatile as it is easy to make.
First, they’re incredibly simple to assemble. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can have these sliders ready to bake in under 10 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Next, the flavor combination is simply divine. Tender, savory turkey paired with the tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce, all nestled between soft, buttery rolls—each bite is a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
These sliders are also perfect for using up leftovers. Got extra turkey or cranberry sauce? This recipe transforms them into a brand-new dish that tastes anything but reheated.
Finally, they’re highly portable and easy to serve. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or need a quick grab-and-go lunch, these sliders fit the bill perfectly.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient shines. Here's a closer look at what you'll need to make these irresistible sliders.
Turkey: Whether you’re using leftover roast turkey or deli slices, aim for tender, flavorful pieces. Leftovers from a holiday meal are particularly delightful, but any turkey will work.
Cranberry Sauce: The star of the show! A homemade cranberry sauce is ideal for its bright, tangy flavor, but store-bought works wonderfully in a pinch. The slight sweetness complements the turkey beautifully.
Hawaiian Rolls: These soft, sweet rolls are the perfect base for sliders. Their pillowy texture and subtle sweetness add a delightful contrast to the savory turkey and cranberry sauce.
Cheese: A slice of Swiss cheese or provolone adds a creamy, melty element that ties everything together. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses.
Butter and Seasonings: A topping of melted butter mixed with a sprinkle of garlic powder, dried parsley, and a touch of mustard gives the sliders a golden, flavorful crust.
How To Make This Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe

Making these cranberry turkey sliders is as easy as layering ingredients and popping them in the oven. Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure perfect sliders every time.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a baking dish. Choose a dish that snugly fits your rolls to help keep the sliders intact while baking.
Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally without separating them into individual rolls. Place the bottom half in the prepared baking dish, creating a solid base for your sliders.
Layer the turkey slices evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Add a generous spread of cranberry sauce on top of the turkey, ensuring each bite gets a burst of tangy flavor.
Place a slice of cheese over the cranberry layer, covering each roll completely. Then, add the top half of the rolls to complete the sliders.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter and stir in garlic powder, dried parsley, and a touch of Dijon mustard. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the rolls. This not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful golden crust.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Let the sliders cool slightly before slicing them into individual pieces. Serve warm and enjoy the melty, flavorful goodness!
Storage Options
These sliders are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they store well if you have leftovers.
To refrigerate, place the sliders in an airtight container and store them for up to 3 days. When reheating, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to retain their crispy, buttery topping.
For longer storage, freeze the sliders individually in foil or a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat straight from frozen at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
Variations and Substitutions
The beauty of this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Swap the turkey: Leftover chicken, ham, or even roast beef work wonderfully in place of turkey.
- Try a different sauce: Replace the cranberry sauce with apricot jam, barbecue sauce, or even a tangy mustard for a new flavor profile.
- Cheese options: Experiment with cheddar, brie, or even gouda for a unique twist.
- Add a crunch: Sprinkle crispy fried onions or a handful of arugula on top of the cranberry sauce for added texture.
- Spice it up: Add a layer of pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
No matter how you choose to customize these sliders, the result is guaranteed to be a hit. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own!
PrintCranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe
Cranberry turkey sliders are a flavorful appetizer or snack made with juicy turkey, sweet cranberry sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for holidays or casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 12 slider buns
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or sliced
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 6 slices Swiss or provolone cheese, halved
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp poppy seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice slider buns in half and arrange the bottom halves in a greased baking dish.
- Layer with turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese slices. Cover with the top halves of the buns.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and poppy seeds. Brush the mixture over the tops of the buns.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Swap Swiss cheese with your favorite cheese for a customized flavor.
- Perfect for using Thanksgiving turkey leftovers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 240mg
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