Turkey Cranberry Sliders are little bites of comfort and festivity all rolled into one. These sliders feature tender, juicy turkey paired with sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, all nestled in soft, buttery slider buns. The combination is simple but incredibly satisfying, making them perfect for a casual lunch or a fun party snack.
I love making these sliders when I want something that feels special without too much fuss. The cranberry adds this nice pop of flavor that really brightens up the turkey, and sometimes I like to add a slice of melty cheese or a little handful of greens for extra texture. It’s such an easy recipe to customize, and I always find that people can’t get enough of these bite-sized delights.
These sliders are great served warm at family gatherings or game day get-togethers. I usually stack a few on a platter and let everyone dig in — they’re perfect for sharing and snacking. Plus, they’re quick to make, which means more time enjoying good company and less time in the kitchen. Whenever I whip up these Turkey Cranberry Sliders, I know it’s going to be a hit every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey: Using cooked turkey breast works great here. I like leftovers from a roast turkey, but deli turkey works too. If you prefer chicken, that’s a good swap for a similar flavor.
Cranberry Sauce: The cranberry sauce adds a nice tangy sweetness. Store-bought is fine, but homemade cranberry sauce with fresh cranberries makes it feel special.
Slider Buns: Soft buns like brioche or Hawaiian rolls hold all the fillings well. If these aren’t available, any small, soft sandwich roll will do.
Cheese: Provolone or mozzarella melt nicely without overpowering the other flavors. If you want a sharper taste, Swiss or cheddar are good options.
Butter & Thyme: Brushing the buns with butter and thyme gives a rich, fragrant finish. Fresh thyme is my favorite, but dried thyme works perfectly in a pinch.
How Do You Get the Perfect Warm, Melty Sliders Without Soggy Buns?
Balancing warm, melted fillings with buns that don’t get soggy can be tricky. Here’s how I do it:
- Place buns in a baking dish close together so they keep moisture without getting too wet.
- Layer ingredients evenly to avoid overloading.
- Cover with foil while baking to trap steam and melt the cheese.
- Remove foil for the last few minutes to brown the tops and give some texture to the buns.
- Brushing buns with butter beforehand helps keep them moist but prevents sogginess.
Following these tips leads to warm, soft buns with juicy filling and just a slightly crispy top, making every bite just right.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish (9×13-inch or similar) – I like it because it holds all the sliders in one layer for even baking.
- Sharp knife – makes slicing the buns cleanly and evenly.
- Brush or spoon – for applying melted butter and herb mixture on top.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the ingredients just right.
- Oven – of course, for baking the sliders to perfection.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheese options: Swiss or cheddar can add different flavor notes and melt nicely.
- Extra veggies: Add spinach or arugula inside for some freshness and crunch.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne or hot sauce to the cranberry sauce or mayonnaise for heat.
- Meat alternatives: Use roasted vegetables or ham for a different twist on the filling.
Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (soft, slightly sweet or brioche-style)
- 2 cups cooked turkey breast, sliced or shredded
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 6 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Mayonnaise or cream cheese (optional spread)
For the Topping:
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish and topping)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to bake, so in about 30 minutes total, you’ll have warm, delicious sliders ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sliders:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half horizontally and arrange the bottom halves in a baking dish, lined up side by side.
Layer the cooked turkey evenly over the bottom bun pieces. Spread cranberry sauce generously over the turkey, then add a slice of cheese if you are using it.
If you like, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or cream cheese on the inside of the top buns for extra flavor and moisture.
2. Assemble and Top:
Place the top halves of the slider buns on the assembled turkey and cranberry layer.
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush this tasty mixture evenly over the tops of the buns. This helps give them a golden-brown color and extra flavor.
3. Bake and Serve:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes, until the cheese melts and the sliders are heated through.
Remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes to brown the tops nicely. When done, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if you have them, then serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Deli Turkey Instead of Cooked Turkey Breast?
Yes, deli turkey works well for these sliders. Just be sure to choose a good-quality, sliced turkey and layer it evenly to avoid overstuffing the buns.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the sliders and cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake covered until warmed through, then uncover to brown the tops.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven wrapped with foil at 350°F until heated through to keep the buns soft.
Can I Use Different Cheese or Skip It?
Yes! Provolone and mozzarella melt nicely, but Swiss, cheddar, or even gouda work well too. If you prefer, you can leave out the cheese altogether for a lighter option.
