Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy meal that everyone will love, then you’ve come to the right place! These Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders are not only packed with flavor but also super simple to whip up. They make a fantastic option for busy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or any time you want a cozy and satisfying treat. The gooey, double-layered Havarti cheese paired with tart cranberries and succulent turkey creates a mouthwatering combination that’s hard to resist.

What makes these sliders even more special is how they bring everyone together around the table. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive get-together with friends, these sliders are sure to please. Trust me; once you try them, they’ll quickly become your new go-to recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these scrumptious sliders on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the melty cheese and sweet-tart cranberry filling.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep them in advance for potlucks or game day—just pop them in the oven when you’re ready!
• Versatile Ingredients: Use leftover turkey or swap in your favorite cheeses for a personalized touch.
• Comfort Food Delight: These sliders are like a warm hug on a plate—perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this recipe. You might already have many of them at home!

For the Sliders

• 1 – 12 count package of Hawaiian rolls (or dinner rolls if you can’t find Hawaiian)
• 12 ounces sliced deli turkey (or thinly sliced leftover turkey)
• 8 ounces sliced Havarti cheese
• 1/2 cup of cranberry sauce

For the Butter Mixture

• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 tsp poppy seeds
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tsp brown sugar

Variations

The beauty of these Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders is their flexibility! You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.
• Change the cheese: Gouda or cheddar would be delightful substitutions if you’re looking for something different.
• Add greens: Toss in some spinach or arugula between layers for an extra crunch and freshness.
• Experiment with sauces: Mix it up with different spreads like mayonnaise or aioli for added flavor.

How to Make Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This step is essential as it ensures that your sliders come out warm and gooey, just as they should be!

Step 2: Prepare the Buns

Cut the slab of buns in half horizontally. This creates two layers—the tops and bottoms—that will hold all those delicious fillings. It’s important to keep them intact so all those flavors stay nestled together.

Step 3: Assemble the Bottom Layer

Lightly grease a 9 x 13 baking dish and place the bottom buns into the pan. Now, spread half of your Havarti cheese on these buns—it provides a luscious base that complements the turkey perfectly.

Step 4: Layer on Turkey and Cranberries

Layer all of your turkey slices over the cheese, covering it well. Then spread that tangy cranberry sauce evenly over the turkey. This combination of flavors adds depth and excitement—just wait until you taste it!

Step 5: Top with Cheese and Buns

Cover everything with the remaining cheese slices before placing the top half of the buns back on. This layer keeps all that melty goodness inside while baking.

Step 6: Prepare Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, melt your butter in the microwave. Stir in poppy seeds, sesame seeds, Dijon mustard, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. This flavorful mixture adds such an irresistible finish to your sliders!

Step 7: Brush On Butter Mixture

Using a pastry brush, generously brush this butter mixture over both tops and sides of your buns. This step is crucial because it helps create that beautiful golden crust while adding extra flavor.

Step 8: Bake Covered

Cover your dish with foil and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and cheesy. Baking covered helps steam everything together beautifully.

Step 9: Crisp Up Tops

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes to achieve crispy tops. Who doesn’t love that delightful crunch?

Step 10: Cool Slightly Before Serving

Allow your sliders to cool slightly before serving—you want those flavors to settle just right! Then dig in and enjoy this comforting treat!

Pro Tips for Making Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders

These sliders are a delightful addition to any gathering, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate them even more!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using high-quality turkey and fresh cranberry sauce enhances the flavors, making every bite deliciously memorable.
• Don’t skip the butter mixture: Brushing the buns with the buttery seasoning not only adds flavor but also gives them a beautiful golden-brown finish that’s hard to resist.
• Let them cool slightly: Allowing the sliders to cool for a few minutes after baking helps the cheese set a bit, making it easier to serve and ensuring they hold together better.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add extras like sliced avocado or fresh herbs for added flavor and texture; they can take your sliders to the next level!
• Make ahead and bake later: Prep these sliders in advance and keep them covered in the fridge. When you’re ready, just pop them in the oven for a quick and easy meal.

How to Serve Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders

These sliders are perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. Here are some fun ideas on how to present this tasty dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil: A sprinkle of chopped herbs brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
• Cranberry sauce drizzle: A light drizzle on top of each slider can enhance the cranberries’ tartness while adding visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the savory sliders and are always a crowd-pleaser.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the sliders, providing freshness with every bite.
• Vegetable platter: Crunchy veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers with hummus make for a healthy side that complements the meal beautifully.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, creating an enjoyable contrast alongside your hearty sliders.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders will not only taste amazing but also look beautiful on your table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders are perfect for meal prep! You can assemble them ahead of time, making it easy to enjoy a delicious meal on busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover sliders in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven for best results.

Freezing

• Assemble the sliders but do not bake them.
• Wrap the unbaked sliders tightly in plastic wrap, then foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen sliders, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Bake at 350 degrees F for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Check that the cheese is melted before serving.

FAQs

If you have questions about these delicious sliders, you’re in the right place!

Can I make Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders without using Hawaiian rolls?

Absolutely! You can use dinner rolls or any soft bread as a substitute. Just ensure they are similar in size to hold all those tasty layers.

How do I store leftover Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking.

Can Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders be made ahead of time?

Yes! These sliders are great for meal prep. Assemble them beforehand and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders?

These sliders pair well with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of sweet potato fries for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders! They bring together gooey cheese, tart cranberry sauce, and savory turkey—perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience; I’d love to hear how they turn out for you!