Easiest Turkey Cranberry Sliders Recipe (Ready in Under 20 Mins!)

Introduction

Remember those cozy holiday gatherings? The ones filled with laughter, warm blankets, and the comforting aroma of delicious food? This recipe for Turkey Cranberry Sliders always brings me back to those cherished moments. It’s like a little bite of nostalgia, but even better because it’s ridiculously simple and quick to whip up. Whether you’re hosting a last-minute get-together or just craving a super satisfying snack, these sliders are your new best friend.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast: Seriously, you can have these ready in under 20 minutes from start to finish.
• Easy: Minimal cooking, maximum flavor. Anyone can make these!
• Giftable: Perfect for potlucks, game days, or even as a cute homemade gift.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Who can resist a warm, cheesy, sweet and savory bite? Everyone loves them!

Ingredients

Let’s gather our goodies. You won’t believe how few things you need for such a big flavor explosion!

• 12 slider buns: The foundation of our deliciousness! Little soft rolls are perfect.
• 12 slices cooked turkey: Your favorite deli turkey or even leftover roast turkey works wonders.
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce: This is the sweet, tangy star! Use your favorite store-bought or homemade.
• 6 slices Swiss cheese, halved: Swiss brings a lovely nutty flavor that pairs so well. Halving them makes them fit perfectly.
• 1/4 cup butter, melted: For that golden, irresistible crunch on top.

How to Make It

Alright, apron on! Let’s get these sliders made. It’s so easy, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made them before.

1. Preheat your oven: Get it nice and warm to 350°F (175°C). This is where the magic happens.
2. Prep your buns: Take those cute slider buns and gently slice them in half, like you’re giving them a little hat.
3. Spread the goodness: On the bottom halves of the buns, spread a lovely layer of that delicious cranberry sauce. Don’t be shy!
4. Pile on the turkey: Now, place a slice of cooked turkey on top of the cranberry sauce. One slice per slider, please!
5. Cheese, please! Pop a halved slice of Swiss cheese right on top of each turkey slice. It’s going to get all melty and gooey.
6. Cap it off: Gently place the top halves of the slider buns over the cheese. They’re almost ready!
7. Get golden: Brush the tops of all your slider buns with that melted butter. This is the secret to that perfect toasty finish.
8. Bake to perfection: Arrange your sliders on a baking sheet and pop them into the preheated oven.
9. Watch the magic: Bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and the buns are just lightly golden and toasty. That’s it!

Substitutions & Additions

Feeling creative? These sliders are super forgiving and open to your own special touches!

• Cheese Swap: While Swiss is fantastic, cheddar, provolone, or even a little brie would be delightful.
• Turkey Twist: Use leftover Thanksgiving turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even ham for a different flavor profile.
• Cranberry Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of cranberry, a dollop of your favorite jam (like fig or raspberry) or even a thin layer of Dijon mustard could work!
• Add a Crunch: Some people love to add a thin slice of crisp apple or a sprinkle of toasted pecans for an extra layer of texture.
• Herbs and Spices: A tiny pinch of rosemary or thyme sprinkled over the turkey before baking adds a lovely aromatic touch.

Tips for Success

A few little tricks to make your sliders absolutely perfect every single time.

• Don’t Overstuff: While tempting, too much cranberry sauce can make the buns soggy. A nice even layer is best.
• Watch Them Closely: Ovens can be tricky! Keep an eye on your sliders in the last few minutes to ensure they don’t get too dark.
• Prep Ahead: You can assemble the sliders (up to brushing with butter) a couple of hours in advance and keep them covered in the fridge. Just bake when you’re ready to serve!
• Serve Warm: These are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the cheese is gooey and the buns are toasty.

How to Store It

While these are so good they rarely last long, here’s how to keep any leftovers:

Once cooled, you can store any leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is re-melted. You can also pop them in a toaster oven or even a microwave (though they might lose a bit of their crispiness in the microwave).

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them and store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What kind of turkey should I use?

Any kind of cooked turkey will work! Deli-sliced turkey is super convenient, but leftover roasted turkey or even turkey breast slices are great options.

Are these good for parties?

Absolutely! They are a huge hit at parties, game days, potlucks, and any gathering. They’re easy to make a big batch of and everyone loves them.

Can I freeze these?

It’s best to enjoy these fresh for the best texture. Freezing and reheating can make the buns a bit soft, so we recommend making them fresh when you want them.