Turkey Cranberry Sliders are fun little sandwiches packed with tender turkey and a sweet-tart cranberry sauce that makes every bite pop with flavor. Soft slider buns hug the filling perfectly, making these perfect for snacking or a casual meal that feels just a bit special.
I love making these sliders when I want something quick but still festive. The cranberry sauce adds just the right amount of tang, and mixing it with turkey keeps things light yet satisfying. I often add a little cream cheese or mayo to make them extra creamy, which is always a hit with my family.
These sliders are great for gatherings, game days, or even a simple weeknight dinner. I usually serve them with some crunchy pickles or a side salad to balance out the flavors. They’re easy to eat with your hands and always disappear fast, so I recommend making a batch big enough to share!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey: Cooked turkey breast is the star here. I like using leftover roasted turkey, but deli turkey works well too. For a vegetarian twist, try seasoned tofu or a plant-based deli slice.
Cranberry Sauce: This adds just the right sweet-tart flavor. Store-bought cranberry sauce is convenient, but homemade cranberry sauce with fresh cranberries and orange zest feels fresh and bright.
Cheese: Provolone or Swiss melts beautifully and complements the turkey nicely. If you’re dairy-free, try a dairy-free cheese alternative or leave cheese out for a lighter slider.
Slider Buns: Soft buns like dinner rolls hold everything together and offer a perfect bite-size sandwich. If you can’t find slider buns, mini brioche or dinner rolls sliced in half work well.
How Do You Get the Buns Lightly Toasted and Flavored?
Brushing the tops with melted butter mixed with thyme before baking is key for flavor and golden color.
- Mix melted butter and thyme well for an even coating.
- Brush generously on the top of the slider buns before baking.
- Bake covered first to melt the cheese, then uncover to let the buns toast without drying out.
This method gives you soft, warm buns with a slight crisp on top and added herbal aroma. It’s a simple touch that makes your sliders taste just a bit more special.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet or 9×13-inch baking dish – I like using a dish that holds the sliders in a single layer for even baking.
- Sharp serrated knife – makes slicing the buns cleanly without squishing them.
- Small bowl – for mixing the melted butter and thyme.
- Bristle brush or small spoon – to evenly spread the butter mixture on the buns.
- Aluminum foil – helps melt the cheese and keeps the sliders moist during baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Skip the cheese and add sliced avocado for creaminess and freshness.
- Add a layer of caramelized onions or sautéed spinach for extra flavor and veggies.
- Use sliced turkey, ham, or roast beef instead of shredded turkey for variety.
- Spread a little mayonnaise or mustard on the buns before assembling for extra moisture and tang.
How to Make Turkey Cranberry Sliders?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (soft dinner rolls)
- 2 cups cooked turkey breast, shredded or sliced
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 6 slices provolone or Swiss cheese, halved
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to bake, so around 30 minutes total from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a tasty dinner or a party snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven and Buns:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns horizontally, ideally keeping the top and bottom connected as one piece—this makes assembling easier.
2. Assemble the Sliders:
Place the bottom half of the buns on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Spread the shredded turkey evenly over the bottom buns, then add the halved cheese slices across the turkey. Spoon cranberry sauce evenly over the cheese.
3. Add the Tops and Butter:
Cover the layered ingredients with the top half of the buns. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and thyme together, then brush this mixture generously over the top of the slider buns. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Bake and Serve:
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sliders are warmed through. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to lightly toast the buns. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if you like, then serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey for These Sliders?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works perfectly and adds great flavor. Just shred or slice it before assembling your sliders.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the sliders and cover them tightly with foil or plastic wrap, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Cranberry Sauce?
If you don’t have cranberry sauce, consider using apple butter, fig jam, or a tangy chutney for a similar sweet-and-savory flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the buns soft and cheese melty.