Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy that these sliders are quick to prepare and use ingredients I usually already have after Thanksgiving. The buttery sauce on top adds extra flavor and keeps the rolls soft and golden. I also like that I can customize them with my favorite cheese or toppings. For me, they’re a fun, family-friendly way to serve up leftovers without feeling like I’m eating the same meal twice.
Ingredients
(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
1 package Hawaiian Sweet Rolls 12 count
2 cups diced turkey
1 cup cranberry sauce or relish
6 slices Swiss or favorite cheese
6 tbsp butter
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tbsp dried minced onion
salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese optional
dried parsley optional
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13 baking pan with foil and spray with cooking spray.
Remove rolls from the package in one piece. Slice the entire slab in half lengthwise, creating a top and bottom layer.
Place the bottom layer in the prepared pan.
Layer on the turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese. (If the cranberry sauce is too thick, I warm it slightly in the microwave to make it easier to spread.)
Place the top layer of rolls back on.
Melt the butter and whisk in mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced onion, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the rolls.
Cover with foil and let sit for 5–10 minutes to soak.
Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 5 minutes until golden and the cheese is melted.
(Optional) Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley before serving.
Slice into individual sliders and enjoy warm.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes 12 sliders. Prep time is 15 minutes, bake time is 25 minutes, for a total of 40 minutes.
Variations
Sometimes I swap Swiss for provolone or cheddar for a sharper flavor. If I want a little extra sweetness, I use honey mustard instead of yellow mustard. I also like adding a touch of cream cheese spread under the turkey for extra richness.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I cover them with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes. I can also microwave individual sliders for about 30 seconds, though the bread won’t be as crisp.
FAQs
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes, I assemble them earlier in the day, refrigerate, and then bake when I’m ready to serve.
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly.
Do I have to use Hawaiian rolls?
No, I can use any soft dinner rolls, but I find Hawaiian rolls add a nice sweetness.
Can I make them vegetarian?
Yes, I use roasted vegetables and extra cheese in place of turkey.
How do I keep the bottoms from getting soggy?
I sometimes toast the bottom layer of rolls lightly before assembling.
What cheese works best?
I like Swiss, provolone, or mozzarella, but almost any melting cheese works.
Can I freeze these sliders?
Yes, I freeze them unbaked, then thaw and bake when needed.
Do I have to add the buttery sauce?
I think it adds flavor, but I can reduce the amount if I want a lighter version.
Can I add stuffing to the sliders?
Yes, stuffing adds even more Thanksgiving flavor, and I layer it with the turkey.
How do I serve these at a party?
I bake them, slice into individual sliders, and keep them warm on a platter covered with foil.
Conclusion
I love making turkey cranberry sliders after the holidays because they feel both comforting and exciting. The sweet rolls, savory filling, and buttery topping make every bite satisfying. For me, these sliders are the perfect way to enjoy Thanksgiving flavors in a whole new way.
