Description
Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Soft rolls, savory turkey, and tangy cranberry sauce make these sliders an instant holiday hit!
Ingredients:
12 slider buns
2 cups roasted turkey, chopped
1/2 cup cranberry compote
6 slices mozzarella cheese
3 tbsp butter, melted
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp black sesame seeds
Steps:
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Place bun bottoms on a lined tray.
Add turkey, cranberry compote, and mozzarella cheese. Cover with tops.
Mix melted butter and mustard; brush over buns. Sprinkle sesame seeds.
Bake for 10 minutes until cheese melts.
The ultimate festive slider recipe!
#HolidayLeftoverMagic
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect sliders every time. First, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Carefully slice your package of 12 slider buns in half horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms intact as single units. Place the bottom slab of buns on the prepared tray. Evenly distribute the 2 cups of chopped roasted turkey across all the buns. Next, spoon the 1/2 cup of cranberry compote over the turkey, spreading it gently. Layer the 6 slices of mozzarella cheese across the sliders, tearing as needed for coverage. Place the top slab of buns back on.
In a small bowl, thoroughly mix the 3 tablespoons of melted butter with 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the tops of the buns with this mixture. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of black sesame seeds evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the buns are golden and warm. Remove from the oven and use a sharp knife to slice between the buns into individual sliders.
Serving Suggestions
These sliders are incredibly versatile. For a holiday party, arrange them on a platter with fresh rosemary sprigs and whole cranberries for garnish. They pair beautifully with a simple side salad, a warm bowl of tomato soup, or classic holiday sides like roasted sweet potatoes or green bean casserole. For a casual gathering, serve them alongside potato chips and pickles.
How-to Summary
In short: Slice buns, layer with turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese. Brush with a mustard-butter mix, sprinkle with seeds, and bake at 180°C for 10 minutes until warm and melty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely. Swiss, provolone, or gouda are excellent substitutes for mozzarella and add a more robust flavor.
What if I don’t have leftover turkey?
You can use deli-sliced turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even holiday ham as a delicious alternative.
Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the sliders completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Brush with the butter mixture just before baking, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 160°C (325°F) oven for 5-10 minutes or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
Can I use whole cranberry sauce instead of compote?
Yes, both whole-berry and jellied cranberry sauce work perfectly. For jellied sauce, spread it thinly for the best coverage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overloading the Buns: Too much filling will make the sliders messy and difficult to eat. Keep layers moderate.
- Skipping the Butter Brush: The butter and mustard mixture is crucial for a golden, flavorful, and soft top. Don’t omit it.
- Overbaking: Bake just until the cheese melts. Overbaking will dry out the turkey and harden the buns.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Let your turkey and cranberry sauce come closer to room temperature for even heating.
Conclusion
These Turkey Cranberry Sliders are the ultimate solution for transforming holiday leftovers into a crowd-pleasing meal. They are effortlessly elegant for parties, wonderfully quick for a family dinner, and capture all the beloved flavors of the season in one delicious bite. This recipe is sure to become a cherished tradition for years to come.
