There's nothing quite like the delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors in these Cranberry Turkey Sliders. Imagine juicy, seasoned turkey patties layered with melted cheese, all tucked between buttery slider buns, and topped with a tangy cranberry sauce that gives each bite an explosion of flavor.

I first made these sliders after Thanksgiving as a fun way to repurpose leftover turkey and cranberry sauce. Little did I know they’d become a staple at our holiday gatherings, and now, they're requested year-round for everything from game nights to family dinners.

These sliders are perfect for feeding a crowd, quick to prepare, and irresistibly tasty. Let’s get into what makes this recipe such a hit!

Why You’ll Love These Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Get ready to make your next gathering unforgettable with these Cranberry Turkey Sliders! Here’s why you’ll want to add them to your menu.

First off, they’re incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and simple assembly, you’ll have these sliders ready in no time. It’s the perfect solution when you need a crowd-pleaser but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

The flavor combo is out of this world. The savory turkey pairs beautifully with the tart, sweet cranberry sauce, creating a mouthwatering balance of flavors. Add a slice of melted provolone or Swiss cheese for that extra creamy, melty goodness.

Another reason to love this recipe is that it’s perfect for using up holiday leftovers. Transform your Thanksgiving turkey and cranberry sauce into a whole new dish that everyone will love. But don’t worry if you don’t have leftovers – fresh ingredients work just as well!

Finally, these sliders are great for meal prepping. You can assemble them ahead of time and simply warm them up when you’re ready to serve. It’s a lifesaver during busy weeks or when hosting a party. Now, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these Cranberry Turkey Sliders lies in their simplicity. A few key ingredients come together to create a satisfying and flavorful dish.

Ground Turkey is the star of the show here. I like to use lean ground turkey, but you can also use ground turkey with a higher fat content for a juicier result. Season it well to bring out its natural flavors. If you’re using leftover turkey, shred it and reheat with some gravy or broth for added moisture.

Cranberry Sauce adds that sweet and tangy element that takes these sliders to the next level. You can use homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce – both work great. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in some orange zest or a pinch of cinnamon for extra depth of flavor.

Slider Buns are the foundation of this recipe. Soft, buttery buns work best, like Hawaiian rolls, which add a subtle sweetness. You can also toast the buns lightly for some added texture.

Cheese is optional but highly recommended. Provolone, Swiss, or even sharp white cheddar melt beautifully over the turkey patties. If you love a hint of smokiness, smoked gouda is a fantastic choice.

Lastly, you’ll need some butter and seasoning. Brushing the tops of the buns with melted butter and sprinkling a little garlic or onion powder gives them a golden, flavorful finish. Make sure you have a large baking dish or sheet pan for easy assembly.

How To Make These Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Making these sliders is a breeze, and I promise they’ll be a crowd favorite. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide.

Start by forming your turkey patties. In a mixing bowl, combine ground turkey with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you like, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs. Form the mixture into small, slider-sized patties, about 2 inches in diameter.

Next, cook the patties. Heat a drizzle of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey patties in batches, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You should see the juices run clear. Once done, set them aside on a plate and cover to keep warm.

Assemble the sliders in your baking dish. Slice the slider buns in half, and place the bottom halves in the dish. Layer each bun with a turkey patty, a spoonful of cranberry sauce, and a slice of cheese. Top with the bun lids.

Before baking, brush the tops of the buns with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder or dried herbs. This step gives them a golden, flavorful crust. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.

Finally, remove the foil and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes to let the tops crisp up. Serve warm, and watch them disappear in seconds!

Storage Options

These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are just as delicious the next day, making them great for leftovers.

Refrigerate any remaining sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep the buns from getting soggy, you can wrap them individually in foil or separate the patties from the buns and reassemble before serving.

If you’d like to freeze the sliders, assemble them without the cranberry sauce and cheese. Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight, add the cranberry sauce and cheese, and bake as directed.

To reheat, pop the sliders in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, covered with foil to keep them from drying out. Remove the foil for the last few minutes to let the buns crisp up.

Variations and Substitutions

The best thing about these sliders is how customizable they are!

If you don’t have ground turkey, try using ground chicken or beef. Both options are delicious and pair well with the cranberry sauce. You could even use a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version.

For a spicier twist, add jalapeño slices or a drizzle of hot sauce to the sliders. The heat contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.

Want to boost the flavor? Try adding sautéed onions or a slice of crispy bacon to each slider. The extra savory elements make these sliders even more decadent.

You can also switch up the cheese. Pepper jack adds a kick, while brie provides a creamy, luxurious texture. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite cheese varieties.

If you’re feeling fancy, make a garlic herb butter to brush on the buns. Mix melted butter with minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.

Get creative and make this recipe your own – you really can’t go wrong! Enjoy the burst of flavors and have fun sharing these sliders with friends and family.