Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders with Havarti & Poppy Seed Topping

Introduction

There’s something magical about the combination of turkey and cranberry, especially when it’s stuffed between soft Hawaiian rolls and topped with gooey cheese. These Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders have become a family favorite in our household, especially during the holidays. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal using Thanksgiving leftovers or a tasty appetizer for your next gathering, these sliders fit the bill perfectly. They’re simple to make, and every bite is bursting with flavor. My family loves how the tartness of the cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with the savory turkey and the creamy Havarti cheese. These sliders are always a hit, and I can’t wait to share the recipe with you!

Ingredients

• 1 (16 oz) package Hawaiian rolls (12 count)
• 1 lb deli turkey, sliced
• 1 cup cranberry sauce (jellied or whole berry)
• 6 slices Havarti or Provolone cheese
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons minced dried onion
• 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
• 2 teaspoons fresh minced chives

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the sliders don’t stick.

Assemble the Sliders

1. Slice the entire package of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. This means you will have a top and bottom layer of rolls.
2. Place the bottom half of the rolls in the prepared baking dish.
3. Layer the sliced turkey evenly over the bottom half of the rolls.
4. Spread the cranberry sauce over the turkey layer, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
5. Arrange the Havarti or Provolone cheese slices over the cranberry sauce.
6. Place the top half of the rolls on top to complete the sliders.

Prepare the Butter Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced dried onion, poppy seeds, and minced chives until well combined. This mixture will add a delightful flavor and aroma to your sliders.

Bake the Sliders

1. Generously brush the butter mixture over the tops of the rolls, ensuring every slider gets a flavorful coating.
2. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the sliders are heated through and the cheese is fully melted.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the tops to brown and crisp slightly.

Serve

Serve these warm and cheesy sliders right away for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or meal that’s perfect for gatherings or holiday leftovers!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12 sliders
• Calories per serving: Approximately 220
• Total Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 350mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 25g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 8g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm as an appetizer or a main dish.
• Pair with:
• A side salad for a light meal.
• Sweet potato fries or chips for a hearty snack.
• Additional cranberry sauce on the side for dipping.

Additional Tips

1. Make Ahead: Assemble the sliders the night before, cover them tightly, and refrigerate. Bake them just before serving.
2. Customize the Cheese: If you prefer a stronger flavor, try sharp cheddar or gouda.
3. Add Greens: For a fresh twist, add a layer of spinach or arugula between the turkey and cranberry sauce.
4. Make It Spicy: Add some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
5. Store Leftovers: Keep any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Recipe Variations

• Veggie Sliders: Substitute the turkey with roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.
• Hawaiian Style: Add pineapple slices for a tropical twist.
• BBQ Twist: Replace cranberry sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile.
• Herbed Cream Cheese: Spread a layer of herbed cream cheese on the bottom rolls for added creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as part of a holiday buffet alongside other dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a charcuterie board.
• Pair with warm soups such as butternut squash or tomato basil for a comforting meal.
• Perfect for game day parties or potlucks—just double the recipe for larger gatherings!

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Assemble the sliders, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze before baking. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of bread?

• Yes! Any soft roll or slider bun can work, but Hawaiian rolls add a nice sweetness.

1. Can I use leftover turkey?

• Absolutely! Shredded or sliced leftover turkey works perfectly.

1. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

• Yes, these sliders can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer.

1. Can I make these sliders gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free rolls and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free.

1. How long do the sliders take to bake from frozen?

• Bake for about 30-35 minutes covered, then uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.

1. What can I serve with these sliders?

• They pair well with salads, soups, or chips.

1. Can I substitute the cheese?

• Yes! Feel free to use any cheese that melts well.

1. What type of cranberry sauce should I use?

• Both jellied and whole berry cranberry sauce work well; choose based on your texture preference.

1. Can I add additional toppings?

• Yes! Feel free to add toppings like crispy bacon or sliced jalapeños.

1. How do I know when the sliders are done?
   • The cheese should be melted, and the tops of the rolls should be lightly golden.

Conclusion

These Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders with Havarti & Poppy Seed Topping are not only easy to make, but they are also deliciously satisfying. Perfect for any gathering or holiday feast, they combine the classic flavors of turkey and cranberry in a fun and delightful way. With endless possibilities for customization and variations, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving them as a quick dinner, a party appetizer, or a creative way to use leftovers, these sliders are guaranteed to impress. Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!

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