Easy Turkey Cranberry Sliders Recipe

Easy Turkey Cranberry Sliders turn Thanksgiving leftovers into a crowd-pleasing meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. I love how these sliders combine sweet cranberry sauce, savory turkey, and creamy cheese all baked together on soft Hawaiian rolls.

The first time I made these sliders, I was looking for a creative way to use up our holiday turkey without feeling like we were eating the same meal again. These sliders completely transformed those leftovers into something my family actually requested the next day. The buttery garlic topping soaks into the rolls while everything gets warm and melty inside, creating the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors. Whether you’re using Thanksgiving turkey or picking up deli slices for an easy weeknight dinner, these Easy Turkey Cranberry Sliders deliver restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.

What You’ll Need for Perfect Turkey Cranberry Sliders

I always use whole berry cranberry sauce instead of jellied for the best texture and flavor in these sliders. Pro tip: make sure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature so it spreads easily without tearing the bread.

• 1 package Hawaiian rolls (or gluten-free, keto, or brioche slider buns)
• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 1 ½ cups whole cranberry sauce (not jellied, fresh or canned)
• 2 cups leftover turkey (cut into bite-size pieces or shredded, or use deli turkey slices)
• 6 slices havarti cheese
• ½ cup salted butter (1 stick, melted; if using unsalted, add ¼ teaspoon kosher salt)
• ½ to 1 teaspoon garlic (pressed or minced, about 1 small clove)
• ½ teaspoon dried minced onion
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Pinch kosher salt
• ½ tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)

Equipment needed: 9×13-inch baking dish, oven, whisk, measuring cups and spoons

How to Make Easy Turkey Cranberry Sliders Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Keep the slider rolls intact as one connected piece. Using a serrated knife, slice horizontally through the entire package to create top and bottom halves. Make the bottom half slightly thicker so it holds the fillings better without getting soggy.

Step 3: Place the bottom half of the connected rolls in your prepared baking dish. Spread the softened cream cheese evenly across the entire surface. If your cream cheese is properly softened, it should spread smoothly without tearing the bread.

Step 4: Spoon the whole cranberry sauce gently over the cream cheese layer. Use the back of a spoon to distribute it evenly, being careful not to press too hard and tear the bread underneath.

Step 5: Distribute the turkey pieces evenly over the cranberry layer, making sure each slider section gets an equal amount. Lay the havarti cheese slices on top, covering all the turkey. Place the top half of the buns back on, covering all the sandwiches.

Step 6: In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, dried onion, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of kosher salt until well combined.

Step 7: Pour the butter mixture evenly over the top of the assembled sliders, letting it soak into the bread. If desired, sprinkle poppy seeds across the top for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Step 8: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes, until the cheese has melted completely and the filling is heated through. You’ll know they’re ready when you can see the cheese bubbling around the edges.

Step 9 (Optional): For a crispier, golden top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Step 10: Remove from the oven and let the sliders rest for 5 minutes before slicing into individual portions. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making them easier to serve. Serve warm for the best experience.

Storing and Reheating Your Sliders

Store leftover Easy Turkey Cranberry Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld together beautifully overnight, making leftovers taste even better.

To reheat, place sliders on a baking sheet and warm in a 300°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual sliders for 30 to 45 seconds, though the bread won’t be as crispy. I recommend covering them with a damp paper towel when microwaving to prevent the rolls from drying out.

Pro tip: these sliders can be assembled completely and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. This makes them perfect for holiday entertaining when you want to prep ahead.

More Delicious Recipes to Complete Your Holiday Menu

These Easy Turkey Cranberry Sliders pair beautifully with other festive treats that capture the magic of the holiday season. For a complete holiday spread, serve alongside our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls for another creative way to use leftover turkey and cranberry sauce, creating a cohesive menu that celebrates classic Thanksgiving flavors.

When planning your holiday meal, consider starting with comforting soups like our Turkey Vegetable Soup or Turkey Vegetable Soup Weight Loss version for a lighter option. For a heartier appetizer spread, try our Slow Cooker Chicken Stew or Crockpot Creamy White Chicken Chili. These dishes complement the sweet and savory flavors of the sliders while providing variety for your guests, ensuring everyone finds something delicious to enjoy at your holiday gathering.

Common Questions About Turkey Cranberry Sliders

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