Welcome, food enthusiasts! If you’re on the hunt for a simple yet incredibly flavorful recipe to use up your leftover turkey, you’re in the right place. This Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders recipe combines the savory richness of turkey, the sweetness of cranberry sauce, and the creamy goodness of Havarti cheese into one delicious, bite-sized treat. These sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleasers, perfect for game day, holiday gatherings, or just a quick weeknight meal. Let’s dive into the magic of these Baked Turkey Sliders and get cooking!
Introduction
Sliders are the epitome of comfort food, but these Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders take things to the next level. Inspired by classic Thanksgiving flavors, this dish marries tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and melty Havarti cheese between buttery slider buns. Whether you’re looking for a creative way to reinvent leftovers or just want a flavorful appetizer, this recipe is a must-try. It’s quick, easy, and loaded with flavor. Trust us—this dish will quickly become a family favorite!
Ingredients for Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders
To make these irresistible sliders, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 slider buns: Soft, buttery, and the perfect size for handheld bites.
- 1 ½ cups leftover turkey: Sliced or shredded for easy layering.
- 1 cup cranberry sauce: For a sweet-tangy kick.
- 6-8 slices Havarti cheese: Melty and creamy; Swiss cheese works as a substitute.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: For brushing the buns.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang to the butter topping.
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds: Adds texture and visual appeal.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the savory flavors.
Optional Substitutions:
- Use gluten-free slider buns for a celiac-friendly version.
- Swap Havarti for sharp cheddar or mozzarella if preferred.
How to Make Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders – Step by Step
Making these sliders is a breeze. Follow these simple steps for a flawless dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Assemble the Sliders
- Place the bottom halves of slider buns in the prepared baking dish.
- Layer the turkey evenly on the buns.
- Spoon a generous layer of cranberry sauce over the turkey.
- Add slices of Havarti cheese to cover the cranberry sauce.
- Place the top halves of the buns on the cheese.
Step 3: Make the Butter Topping
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Melted butter
- Dijon mustard
- Poppy seeds
- Worcestershire sauce
Step 4: Bake the Sliders
- Brush the butter mixture generously over the sliders.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the sliders from the oven, let them cool slightly, and serve warm. Your Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders are ready to impress!
Helpful Tips for Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders
- Use fresh ingredients: For the best flavor, use freshly made cranberry sauce and high-quality cheese.
- Don’t skimp on the butter topping: It’s what makes the sliders golden and flavorful.
- Layer evenly: Ensure each slider gets an even amount of turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese for consistent taste.
Cooking Tips for the Best Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders
- Use a sharp knife: This helps when slicing through the baked sliders without crushing them.
- Try a glass baking dish: It retains heat well and ensures even cooking.
- Experiment with spices: Add a pinch of garlic powder or thyme to the butter topping for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders
These sliders are perfect on their own, but if you’re hosting a gathering, pair them with:
- Sweet potato fries: A crispy, salty complement.
- Green salad: A light, refreshing side dish.
- Sparkling cranberry mocktails: To carry the cranberry theme throughout the meal.
For an Instagram-worthy presentation, serve the sliders on a wooden platter with fresh herbs for garnish.
Nutritional Information
These sliders aren’t just tasty—they also offer a great balance of nutrients!
Nutritional info for Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders (per slider):
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fats: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Vitamin C: 4% DV
- Calcium: 8% DV
Storage and Leftovers for Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders
To Store:
Place the sliders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To Reheat:
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Wrap sliders in foil and heat for 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Pro Tip: Avoid microwaving, as it can make the buns soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders
1. Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the sliders and store them covered in the fridge. Brush with butter topping just before baking.
2. Can I freeze these sliders?
Yes, wrap assembled sliders tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. What can I use instead of cranberry sauce?
Try apricot preserves or a tangy barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile.
4. Are these sliders suitable for kids?
Yes! Kids love the sweet and savory combination. You can also use cheddar cheese for a more familiar flavor.
Related Recipes for Baked Cranberry Turkey Slider Lovers
If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy:
Conclusion
There you have it—a quick, delicious recipe for Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders that’s perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re using up holiday leftovers or crafting a cozy weeknight meal, these sliders are sure to delight. Give them a try, and don’t forget to share your variations in the comments. We’d love to hear how you make these sliders your own! Happy cooking!
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Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders – Perfect Holiday Appetizer
Description
Welcome, food enthusiasts! If you’re on the hunt for a simple yet incredibly flavorful recipe to use up your leftover turkey, you’re in the right place. This Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders recipe combines the savory richness of turkey, the sweetness of cranberry sauce, and the creamy goodness of Havarti cheese into one delicious, bite-sized treat. These sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleasers, perfect for game day, holiday gatherings, or just a quick weeknight meal. Let’s dive into the magic of these Baked Turkey Sliders and get cooking!
Ingredients
- 12 slider buns: Soft, buttery, and the perfect size for handheld bites.
- 1 ½ cups leftover turkey: Sliced or shredded for easy layering.
- 1 cup cranberry sauce: For a sweet-tangy kick.
- 6–8 slices Havarti cheese: Melty and creamy; Swiss cheese works as a substitute.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: For brushing the buns.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang to the butter topping.
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds: Adds texture and visual appeal.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the savory flavors.
Optional Substitutions:
- Use gluten-free slider buns for a celiac-friendly version.
- Swap Havarti for sharp cheddar or mozzarella if preferred.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Assemble the Sliders
- Place the bottom halves of slider buns in the prepared baking dish.
- Layer the turkey evenly on the buns.
- Spoon a generous layer of cranberry sauce over the turkey.
- Add slices of Havarti cheese to cover the cranberry sauce.
- Place the top halves of the buns on the cheese.
Step 3: Make the Butter Topping
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Melted butter
- Dijon mustard
- Poppy seeds
- Worcestershire sauce
Step 4: Bake the Sliders
- Brush the butter mixture generously over the sliders.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the sliders from the oven, let them cool slightly, and serve warm. Your Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders are ready to impress!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use fresh ingredients: For the best flavor, use freshly made cranberry sauce and high-quality cheese.
- Don’t skimp on the butter topping: It’s what makes the sliders golden and flavorful.
- Layer evenly: Ensure each slider gets an even amount of turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese for consistent taste.
