© Original Recipe By Fresh & Fit Recipes ©
🍔✨ Sweet and Savory Turkey Cranberry Sliders: The Perfect Holiday Appetizer! 🦃
1. Introduction
If you’re seeking a crowd-pleasing holiday appetizer that combines the tender richness of turkey with the tart sweetness of cranberries, then these Turkey Cranberry Sliders are your new go-to. With each bite, you’ll experience an irresistible blend of savory turkey, zesty cranberries, and melty cheese nestled in a soft slider bun. Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family dinners, this cranberry party slider recipe elevates your holiday table with flavors that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the details of creating this delightful holiday appetizer.
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- One-Pan Simplicity: Minimal prep and cleanup — just assemble and bake!
- Flavorful Combo: Juicy turkey paired with sweet cranberry sauce creates a delightful contrast.
- Versatile: Ideal for holiday parties, game day, or casual weeknights.
3. Ingredient Notes
Choosing high-quality ingredients makes all the difference in these turkey slider recipes. Opt for freshly ground turkey or good quality pre-cooked mild turkey breast, which stays moist and tender. Fresh cranberry sauce adds a punch of bright flavor, but you can also make your own using fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, and orange zest for an aromatic twist. When selecting cheese, a mild cheddar or mozzarella melts beautifully and complements the savory turkey. For the buns, soft slider rolls or even brioche buns elevate the overall experience.
For a richer flavor, consider adding a swipe of Dijon mustard or a sprinkle of fresh thyme before baking. These small touches help elevate the sliders from ordinary to extraordinary.
4. Kitchen Tools You Need
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect for quick baking or reheating your sliders to crispy perfection with less oil.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: Ideal for achieving that golden toasted bun effect indoors without an outdoor grill.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures easy cheesy melting and even baking, making your kitchen prep smoother.
5. How to Make Sweet and Savory Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice your slider buns in half horizontally; the soft insides will absorb the flavorful juices during baking. If using pre-cooked turkey, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces, ensuring easier stacking.
Assembly
Spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce on the bottom buns for that sweet-tart base. Layer the turkey evenly over the cranberry. Top with slices of your preferred cheese—mild cheddar or mozzarella works beautifully—and then add a little boost of flavor with fresh herbs or a dollop of Dijon mustard if desired. Cover with the top buns.
Baking to Perfection
Place the assembled sliders in a baking dish. To keep everything moist and melded together, cover the dish with foil. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden. For an extra crispy top, uncover and broil for 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. The buns should be soft yet toasted and fragrant with warm, savory scents.
6. Expert Tips for Success
- Use fresh cranberry sauce for maximum flavor. Homemade sauce adds a zesty kick that store-bought versions sometimes lack.
- Don’t overload the sliders. Too much cranberry or turkey can cause sogginess—aim for a balanced layer.
- For a crispier bun, broil the sliders for the last few minutes of baking. Just keep a close watch to avoid burning!
- Make ahead: Assemble the sliders a few hours before baking. Cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to heat.
7. Variations & Substitutions
If you’re catering to dietary needs or personal preferences, there are plenty of substitutions to personalize your holiday appetizer. Swap the turkey for roasted chicken or ham; add a dash of hot sauce or a handful of arugula for a spicy or fresh flair. For a vegan version, replace turkey with lentil or veggie-based protein, and use vegan cheese and cranberry sauce without added sugars.
8. Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. For crispiness, reheat in the oven or air fryer until the buns regain their toasted texture.
9. FAQ
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the sliders a few hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for fresh, warm sliders.
What type of cheese works best?
Mild cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or Havarti melt smoothly and complement the sweet-tart cranberry and savory turkey flavors nicely.
Are these suitable for freezing?
It’s best to freeze assembled, unbaked sliders. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To serve, thaw overnight and bake as directed for fresh sliders.
Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs, caramelized onions, or even a smear of cream cheese can elevate your sliders to the next level.
10. Conclusion
From their aromatic aroma to their irresistible flavor combination, Turkey Cranberry Sliders make a memorable addition to any festive gathering. Whether you’re planning a big holiday feast or an easy weeknight dinner, these sliders offer a delightful mix of sweet and savory that everyone will rave about. Don’t forget to check out the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer for perfect baking results, and enjoy creating these flavourful bites that bring joy to your table!
Print
Sweet and Savory Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Tender turkey slices layered with cranberry sauce, cheese, and greens in soft slider buns.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients
- 1 pound sliced cooked turkey
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 8 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese
- Fresh greens or arugula
- Butter or olive oil for toasting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the slider buns in half and lightly toast in butter or olive oil.
- Spread cranberry sauce on the bottom bun of each slider.
- Layer turkey slices over the cranberry sauce.
- Top with a slice of cheese and fresh greens.
- Cover with the top bun and secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Arrange sliders on a baking sheet and warm in the oven for 10 minutes until cheese melts and sliders are heated through.
Notes
- Use leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken for easy prep.
- Adjust cranberry amount for more sweetness.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Holiday, Festive
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 180 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg