Turkey cranberry sliders are like bite-sized sandwiches that are packed with flavor! Juicy turkey meets tangy cranberry sauce, all nestled in soft buns—perfect for a tasty snack or meal.
These sliders are a fun twist on traditional sandwiches. I love making them for game day or casual get-togethers. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal you can eat with one hand? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: Use soft dinner rolls or mini brioche buns for a delightful texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat or gluten-free buns work too!
Turkey: I like using leftover turkey for these sliders—it makes the recipe super easy. If you don’t have turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken or even deli turkey can be a great substitute!
Cranberry Sauce: Whether you go with homemade or canned, it’s all good! For a different twist, try using a spicy cranberry relish or even a fruit chutney.
Thyme: Fresh thyme offers an aromatic touch, but dried thyme works if that’s what you have. Feel free to get creative and use other herbs like rosemary or sage!
How Can I Make the Sliders Extra Tasty?
To amp up the flavor, consider these simple tips:
- Mix some salt and pepper into the turkey for added flavor.
- Try adding a layer of cheese like mozzarella or cheddar under the cranberry sauce for a cheesy twist.
- For extra moistness, slather a thin layer of mayonnaise or cream cheese on the top buns.
- Brushing the buns with melted butter not only gives a lovely golden color but adds richness.
These little details can really make a big difference in taste! Enjoy making your sliders!
Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (soft dinner rolls or mini brioche buns)
- 2 cups cooked turkey breast, sliced or shredded
- 3/4 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
For the Topping:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: mayonnaise or cream cheese spread for added moisture
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 to 12 minutes to bake. You’ll have delicious Turkey Cranberry Sliders ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for quick gatherings or an easy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your sliders come out warm and delicious!
2. Prepare the Buns:
Take the slider buns and slice them in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves on a large baking sheet, ready for all your yummy fillings.
3. Assemble with Turkey:
Evenly distribute the cooked turkey on top of the bottom buns. Make sure each slider gets a good portion of turkey for a hearty bite!
4. Add Cranberry Sauce:
Generously spoon cranberry sauce over the turkey on each slider. This sweet and tart sauce is what makes these sliders really special!
5. Season with Thyme:
Sprinkle the fresh thyme leaves (or dried thyme) over the cranberry sauce. It adds a lovely flavor that complements the turkey and cranberry.
6. Prepare the Top Buns:
If you want even more flavor, you can spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or cream cheese on the inside of the top bun halves. It adds moisture and taste!
7. Complete the Sliders:
Carefully place the top halves of the buns onto each slider, creating little turkey sandwiches.
8. Brush with Butter:
Brush the melted butter over the top of the slider buns. This will give them a nice, golden color and extra flavor.
9. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the sliders lightly with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the buns are toasty.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take them out of the oven and garnish with some extra fresh thyme if you’d like. Serve the sliders warm and watch them disappear!
These Turkey Cranberry Sliders are perfect for parties, quick lunches, or any time you crave a tasty snack. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked turkey is perfect for these sliders, making them an excellent choice for repurposing holiday leftovers. Just make sure it’s sliced or shredded for easy assembly.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sliders ahead of time! Assemble them and cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate until you’re ready to bake, but allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before popping them in the oven, to ensure even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will keep the buns from getting soggy.
What Other Sauces Can I Use Instead of Cranberry Sauce?
If you’re looking to switch things up, other sauces like barbecue sauce, apple chutney, or even a spicy aioli can add a unique flavor twist to your sliders. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination!
