Turkey Cranberry Meltaway Sliders Recipe
The combination of tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and melted cheese between soft slider rolls creates a flavor profile that many people find appealing, especially during the holiday season. These sliders are perfect for gatherings, parties, or even a quick weeknight dinner. The cranberry sauce adds a sweet and tangy element that complements the savory turkey and cheese beautifully.
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Turkey Cranberry Meltaway Sliders Recipe
Turkey Cranberry Meltaway Sliders are a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for gatherings and parties. The combination of tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and melted cheese, topped with a flavorful meltaway topping, is sure to please your guests.
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 12
Ingredients
✓ 12 slider rolls
✓ 1 cup cranberry sauce
✓ 6 slices Swiss cheese
✓ 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional)
✓ 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional)
✓ 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
✓ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
✓ 1 teaspoon dried parsley
✓ 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
✓ Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper
✓ Slice the slider rolls in half horizontally and place the bottom halves on the prepared baking sheet
✓ Layer the sliced turkey breast, cranberry sauce, and Swiss cheese on the bottom halves
✓ Place the top halves of the slider rolls on top
✓ Mix the melted butter, garlic powder, dried parsley, and onion powder for the meltaway topping
✓ Brush the meltaway topping over the tops of the slider rolls
✓ Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted
Notes
These sliders can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen for later use. Simply bake them straight from the refrigerator or freezer, adjusting the baking time as needed.
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 500
- Fat: 15
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 20
These sliders are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy hosts who want to serve something impressive without spending too much time in the kitchen. The meltaway topping, made with melted butter, garlic powder, dried parsley, and onion powder, adds a rich and aromatic flavor that elevates the entire dish.
The colors, textures, and smells of these sliders are sure to tantalize your taste buds. The golden-brown tops of the slider rolls, the melted cheese oozing out, and the vibrant red cranberry sauce all come together to create a visually appealing dish that is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Key Ingredients
- Slider rolls — provides the base for the sliders; Hawaiian rolls or dinner rolls work well
- Sliced turkey breast — adds protein and savory flavor; deli meat is convenient
- Cranberry sauce — adds sweetness and tanginess; homemade or store-bought works
- Swiss cheese — adds creaminess and richness; cheddar cheese is a good alternative
- Mayonnaise — adds moisture and flavor; optional but recommended for extra creaminess
- Dijon mustard — adds a tangy kick; optional but pairs well with turkey
- Unsalted butter — used for the meltaway topping; melted for a golden-brown finish
- Garlic powder — adds depth and aroma to the meltaway topping
- Dried parsley — adds freshness and color to the meltaway topping
- Onion powder — adds a savory element to the meltaway topping
The combination of these ingredients creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that makes these sliders irresistible.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Slice the slider rolls in half horizontally using a serrated knife. Place the bottom halves on the prepared baking sheet.
- If using mayonnaise and Dijon mustard, spread a thin layer on the bottom halves of the slider rolls. This adds moisture and flavor.
- Layer the sliced turkey breast evenly over the bottom halves of the slider rolls.
- Spoon the cranberry sauce over the turkey breast. This adds a sweet and tangy element.
- Place the Swiss cheese slices over the cranberry sauce. This will melt and bind the flavors together.
- Place the top halves of the slider rolls on top to complete the sliders.
Cooking
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted unsalted butter, garlic powder, dried parsley, and onion powder. This creates the meltaway topping.
- Brush the meltaway topping evenly over the tops of the slider rolls. This will give the sliders a golden-brown finish and add flavor.
- Bake the sliders in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. This helps the cheese set and makes the sliders easier to handle.
Serving
- Serve the Turkey Cranberry Meltaway Sliders warm. They are perfect for gatherings, parties, or a quick dinner.
- Consider serving with additional cranberry sauce on the side for extra flavor.
The sliders are fully ready when the cheese is melted, and the tops are golden brown. You can check by gently lifting one of the sliders.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Turkey Cranberry Meltaway Sliders are easy to make and require minimal preparation time, making them perfect for busy hosts. They are also versatile and can be served at various occasions, from casual gatherings to formal parties. The combination of flavors and textures is crowd-pleasing and sure to impress your guests.
Tips for Making Perfect Turkey Cranberry Meltaway Sliders
- Use high-quality ingredients, such as freshly baked slider rolls and good-quality cheese, to enhance the flavor and texture.
- Don’t overfill the sliders with cranberry sauce, as this can make them messy. A moderate amount is sufficient.
- If you prefer a crisper top, broil the sliders for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Consider toasting the slider rolls lightly before assembling the sliders for added texture.
- These sliders can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen for later use. Simply bake them straight from the refrigerator or freezer, adjusting the baking time as needed.
Time Details
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 slider):

- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 500mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them for later use. Simply bake them straight from the refrigerator or freezer, adjusting the baking time as needed.
What can I use instead of cranberry sauce?
You can use other sweet and tangy sauces, such as apricot or orange marmalade, as a substitute for cranberry sauce.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, provolone, or gouda, to find your preferred flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
Turkey Cranberry Meltaway Sliders are a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for various occasions. The combination of tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and melted cheese, topped with a flavorful meltaway topping, is sure to please your guests. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the praise from your family and friends!
