Turkey Cranberry Sliders are a fun and tasty little twist on a classic sandwich. These mini sandwiches combine tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and a bit of melty cheese all tucked inside soft slider buns. They’re the perfect size for snacking or serving at a party, and they bring that cozy Thanksgiving flavor any time of the year.
I love making these sliders when I want something quick but still special. The cranberry sauce adds just the right sweet and tart bite, and the turkey keeps it hearty without being too heavy. I usually add a slice of Swiss cheese and a bit of crisp lettuce to freshen things up, but they’re delicious even simple and warm straight from the oven.
These sliders always bring smiles when I serve them at family gatherings or casual get-togethers. I like to arrange them on a platter so everyone can grab one—or two! They’re easy to make ahead and reheat, which makes them a lifesaver when I’m hosting. If you like big flavors in a small package, these Turkey Cranberry Sliders are definitely worth a try.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: Soft dinner rolls or brioche buns work best for that fluffy, buttery texture. If these aren’t available, mini sandwich rolls or even Hawaiian rolls make a great substitute.
Turkey: Use cooked turkey breast for a lean protein base. Leftover roast turkey or deli-sliced turkey can save time and still taste great.
Cranberry Sauce: This adds a tangy-sweet pop. Store-bought cranberry sauce is fine, but homemade with fresh or frozen cranberries brings extra flavor and texture.
Cream Cheese & Herbs: Cream cheese keeps the sliders creamy and moist. Mixing in fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary adds brightness. You can swap cream cheese with goat cheese or softened ricotta for a different twist.
Butter: Brushing melted butter on top of buns gives a pretty golden finish and extra flavor. Olive oil can be swapped if preferred.
How Do I Layer and Warm the Sliders Without Soggy Buns?
Warm sliders bring flavors together, but too much liquid can make the buns soggy. Here’s how to avoid that:
- Start by spreading herbed cream cheese on buns to create a barrier that protects them from moisture.
- Layer the turkey and then add cranberry sauce on top, so the moist sauce doesn’t soak the bread directly.
- Cover the sliders loosely with foil while baking to keep moisture in but prevent steam buildup that softens the buns too much.
- Brushing buns with melted butter before baking helps create a slight crust and richer flavor.
Following these steps keeps the buns intact and allows the fillings to stay moist and tasty—perfect little bites every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish or baking sheet – I use it to layer and warm the sliders evenly.
- Small mixing bowl – perfect for mixing the herbed cream cheese.
- Sharp knife – for slicing the buns cleanly and evenly.
- Pastry brush or spoon – helps evenly coat the buns with melted butter for a golden finish.
- Aluminum foil – covers the sliders during baking to keep them moist without sogginess.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheese swap: Use Swiss or Havarti instead of cream cheese for a different meltiness and flavor.
- Additional toppings: Add crispy bacon or sliced apples for extra texture and flavor.
- Spicy kick: Mix in a dash of hot sauce or add sliced jalapeños for some heat.
- Vegetarian version: Replace turkey with roasted sweet potatoes or grilled portobello mushrooms for a meatless option.
Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (soft dinner rolls, brioche works well)
- 2 cups cooked turkey breast, sliced or thickly shredded
- ¾ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or rosemary), finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for brushing buns)
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, 10-15 minutes to bake, and then you’re ready to serve. So, in total, plan for around 25 minutes from start to finish — quick and easy for any gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Oven and Buns:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half horizontally and place the bottom halves in a baking dish or on a baking sheet.
2. Mixing the Herbed Cream Cheese:
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the chopped fresh herbs. Add salt and pepper to taste, and stir until smooth and well combined.
3. Assembling the Sliders:
Spread a generous layer of the herbed cream cheese on each bottom bun. Top each with a layer of cooked turkey breast, then spoon cranberry sauce over the turkey.
4. Finishing and Baking:
Place the top halves of the slider buns over the cranberry sauce. Brush the tops lightly with melted butter. Cover the sliders loosely with aluminum foil to keep them moist while baking.
5. Baking and Serving:
Bake the sliders for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Remove from the oven and garnish each slider with a small fresh thyme sprig, if using. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for These Sliders?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the turkey completely in the refrigerator before using. Pat it dry to avoid extra moisture that might make the sliders soggy.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the sliders ahead and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake them warm just before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the oven wrapped with foil to maintain moisture.
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese?
Yes! For a different flavor, try goat cheese, ricotta, or even a soft brie. Just make sure it’s spreadable and complements the cranberry and turkey flavors.