If you’re looking for the ultimate game-day treat or a festive party favorite, this Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe is exactly what you need to wow your guests and satisfy those snack cravings. Picture tender, thinly sliced deli turkey piled high on soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls, topped with a luscious layer of tangy cranberry sauce and creamy Havarti cheese. Glazed with a savory butter mixture and baked until melty and golden, these sliders are bursting with flavor and ideal for sharing. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply want a quick, crowd-pleasing meal, this recipe brings together comfort and excitement in every bite.

The image shows a close-up view of three stacked sandwich pieces, each with four visible layers. The bottom layer is golden brown soft bread, slightly thick and fluffy. Above the bread are thin layers of light pink sliced turkey meat. On top of the meat, there is a thick, bright red cranberry sauce with a glossy texture, spread unevenly to show some juicy whole cranberries. The top layer is a golden bread roll sprinkled with dark poppy seeds and herbs, with a slightly crispy, textured top crust. The sandwiches are placed on a white plate with a white marbled surface in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe lies in its simplicity and thoughtful use of ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors that dance on your palate, making these sliders simply irresistible.

16 oz package Hawaiian rolls (12 count): These soft, slightly sweet rolls provide the perfect base that complements savory fillings beautifully.
1 lb deli turkey (thinly sliced): Lean and tender, turkey adds heartiness without overpowering the other flavors.
1 cup cranberry sauce (jellied or whole berry): Adds a tangy sweetness that brightens the whole sandwich.
6 slices Havarti or provolone cheese: Melt-friendly cheeses that introduce creamy richness and mild flavor.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Used to create a savory glaze that browns and enhances the tops of the sliders.
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Brings depth and a hint of umami to the butter glaze.
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle zing that balances the sweetness.
2 teaspoons minced dried onion: Supplies subtle savory notes and texture.
2 teaspoons poppy seeds: For a mild crunch and pretty finish.
2 teaspoons fresh minced chives: Infuses a fresh, oniony brightness to the glaze.

How to Make Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Rolls

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF, and lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Then, carefully slice the Hawaiian rolls in half lengthwise, laying the bottom halves snugly in the baking dish. This sets the stage for your layers and keeps everything neat for baking.

Step 2: Layer the Turkey and Cranberry

Next, layer the thinly sliced deli turkey evenly over the bottom halves of the rolls. This meat layer provides a juicy, savory foundation. Spoon the cranberry sauce on top of the turkey, spreading it evenly. The cranberry sauce introduces vibrant color and a sweet-tart contrast that’s crucial to the slider’s charm.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Top Bun

Place six slices of Havarti or provolone cheese evenly across the cranberry layer — the cheese will melt into a luscious blanket during baking. Then, gently place the top halves of the Hawaiian rolls onto the cheese, completing the stack and preparing the sliders for their buttery glaze.

Step 4: Brush with Butter Glaze and Bake

Combine melted butter with Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried minced onion, poppy seeds, and fresh chives in a small bowl. This flavorful glaze is key to adding moisture and that irresistible golden crust. Generously brush the tops of the rolls, cover the dish with foil, and bake for 15-18 minutes until warmed through and cheese is melted.

Step 5: Brown and Serve

Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 3-5 minutes to crisp and brown the top. This final step delivers both beautiful color and a slight crunch that makes biting into these sliders pure joy. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful mix of sweet, savory, and melty goodness.

How to Serve Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe

Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like extra minced chives or a sprinkle of chopped parsley add a pop of green and enhance the fresh flavors. For a touch of heat, try a thin slice of pickled jalapeño or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes alongside the sliders.

Side Dishes

Classic sides such as crispy sweet potato fries or a vibrant mixed green salad pair beautifully with these sliders. For a fun twist, serve with a tangy coleslaw or roasted Brussels sprouts to introduce additional textures and flavors that complement the turkey and cranberry.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, arrange the sliders on a wooden board lined with parchment paper for a rustic feel. Add small flags or toothpicks to each slider for easy grabbing. You can also create mini slider samplers with different cheese or cranberry variations to keep guests intrigued and coming back for more.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe components keep well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, wrap the sliders individually or together tightly in plastic wrap before storing.

Freezing

You can freeze assembled, unbaked sliders by wrapping the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Frozen sliders stay good for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then follow the baking instructions to crisp and melt the cheese perfectly.

Reheating

Reheat sliders in the oven at 350ºF for about 10-12 minutes covered with foil to prevent drying out. Remove the foil during the last few minutes to restore the browned, buttery top that makes these sliders irresistible fresh out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use leftover cooked turkey for this slider recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover cooked turkey works wonderfully and can add even more flavor since it’s already seasoned. Just be sure to slice it thinly for the best layering.

What if I don’t have Hawaiian rolls on hand?

While Hawaiian rolls add sweetness and softness, you can substitute with any dinner rolls or slider buns you prefer. Just keep in mind the sweeter rolls enhance the cranberry and turkey beautifully.

Can this Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe be made vegetarian?

You can easily make a vegetarian version by swapping turkey for a plant-based deli slice or grilled roasted vegetables. The cranberry sauce and glaze will keep the savory-sweet balance intact.

Is it okay to use whole berry cranberry sauce instead of jellied?

Yes, either works well. Whole berry cranberry sauce offers a bit more texture and bursts of fruitiness, while jellied cranberry sauce gives a smooth, consistent spread. It’s all about your personal preference!

Can I prepare these sliders gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free slider buns or rolls. Double-check the Worcestershire sauce and other condiments for gluten content to keep the sliders safe for sensitive eaters.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites for bringing comfort, flavor, and festive cheer to any table. It’s easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and perfect for gatherings big or small. I encourage you to whip up a batch yourself — these sliders are sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

Cranberry Turkey Sliders Recipe