CRANBERRY TURKEY SLIDERS

If you’re looking for a delicious and festive twist on your regular slider, these Cranberry Turkey Sliders are the perfect choice! A perfect blend of savory turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and melted cheese all nestled between soft slider buns, these sliders are an ideal dish for any holiday gathering, tailgate, or casual family meal. They are quick, easy to make, and bursting with seasonal flavors that will leave everyone craving more.

Ingredients for Cranberry Turkey Sliders

For the Sliders:

• 12 slider buns (mini sandwich buns)
• 1 pound of cooked turkey (shredded or sliced)
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 6 slices of Swiss cheese or cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons of butter (melted)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

For the Cranberry Sauce (if homemade):

• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• A pinch of salt

How to Make Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Sauce (if Homemade)

If you decide to make your cranberry sauce from scratch, start by placing cranberries, orange juice, sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until the cranberries burst open, and the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes). Let the sauce cool before using it for your sliders. This homemade sauce adds a fresh, zesty flavor to the turkey!

Step 2: Assemble the Sliders

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cut the slider buns in half horizontally, keeping the top and bottom halves together. If your buns are pre-sliced, that’s even easier!
• Spread a generous amount of cranberry sauce on the bottom half of each slider bun.
• Layer the turkey evenly across the buns, making sure it’s spread out to each side.
• Top each slider with a slice of Swiss cheese or cheddar cheese.
• Place the top halves of the buns on top of the sliders.

Step 3: Brush with Butter and Bake

• Brush the melted butter (combined with Dijon mustard, if using) over the top of each slider bun for extra flavor and a beautiful golden finish.
• Place the assembled sliders on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, and the buns are golden brown.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the sliders are out of the oven, garnish them with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. Serve them warm, and get ready for the compliments!

Conclusion

These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are a fantastic way to bring festive flavors to your table without a lot of effort. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for an easy and delicious weeknight dinner, these sliders will be a hit. The sweet and savory combination of turkey and cranberry is a crowd-pleaser, and the melted cheese on top ties everything together beautifully. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the holiday spirit in every bite!

Serving and Storage Tips for Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Serving Tips:

• Ideal Pairings: Serve these cranberry turkey sliders with a variety of sides such as a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or sweet potato fries for a well-rounded meal. A bowl of cranberry sauce or a simple dipping sauce like honey mustard or ranch also complements the sliders wonderfully.
• Perfect for Buffets: These sliders are perfect for buffet-style gatherings or holiday parties. You can keep them warm in a slow cooker or under a heat lamp to ensure they stay delicious and ready to serve throughout the event.
• Mini Appetizers: If you’re serving these as appetizers, consider slicing the sliders in half or into quarters for bite-sized portions that guests can easily grab and enjoy.
• Garnishing Options: Add fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, for a lovely aromatic garnish. A little sprinkle of crushed pecans or walnuts on top can also add a nice texture contrast.

Storage Tips:

• Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftover sliders, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the sliders are completely cool before sealing them to prevent moisture buildup.
• Reheating: To reheat the sliders, wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven method helps maintain the bun’s texture and keeps the cheese melted.
• Freezing: If you want to make these sliders ahead of time, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked sliders. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, remove the wrapping and bake directly from frozen, adding about 10 extra minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions for Leftovers:

• Slider Salad: Use leftover turkey and cranberry sliders as a topping for a salad. Simply cut them into smaller pieces and toss them with mixed greens, nuts, and a balsamic glaze or dressing.
• Slider Wraps: For a quick lunch, unwrap the turkey and cranberry mixture and use it as a filling for wraps with fresh vegetables and your choice of sauce.

By following these storage and serving tips, you can enjoy your Cranberry Turkey Sliders even after your gathering has ended, keeping the flavors fresh and delicious for days to come.

1. Can I make Cranberry Turkey Sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these sliders ahead of time! Assemble the sliders, cover them with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them an ideal make-ahead option for parties or busy holiday gatherings. Simply bake them when you’re ready to serve!

2. Can I use leftover turkey for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover turkey is perfect for these sliders. Shred or slice your cooked turkey and use it as a filling for the sliders. It’s a great way to repurpose holiday leftovers and create a delicious meal with minimal effort.

3. Can I substitute the cranberry sauce?

Yes! If you prefer a different flavor or don’t have cranberry sauce on hand, you can use alternatives like raspberry jam, apple sauce, or even a sweet-tart chutney. These substitutions will give the sliders a unique twist while still adding that sweet-savory flavor.

4. What kind of cheese is best for these sliders?

Swiss cheese and cheddar are the most popular choices, but you can experiment with other types of cheese. Try provolone, gouda, or even brie for a richer, creamier option. The key is to use a cheese that melts well and complements the turkey and cranberry.

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