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When it comes to holiday gatherings, comfort food and festive flavors reign supreme. If you’re looking to serve up something delicious, easy to prepare, and perfectly balanced with savory and sweet flavors, Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders with Havarti & Poppy Seed Topping are the way to go. These mini sandwiches are ideal for everything from casual family dinners to holiday parties, offering a delightful twist on classic turkey sandwiches with the added punch of tangy cranberry and creamy Havarti cheese.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make these irresistible sliders, combining tender turkey with sweet cranberry sauce, topped with melty Havarti and a crunchy poppy seed topping. Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday feast or just a tasty weeknight dinner, these sliders will quickly become a crowd favorite!
Why You’ll Love These Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders are the perfect blend of flavors and textures:
Savory turkey: A lean, protein-packed filling that is juicy and satisfying.
Tangy cranberry sauce: A seasonal favorite that adds a sweet yet tart contrast to the turkey.
Creamy Havarti cheese: Mild and buttery, it melts perfectly to complement the flavors.
Crispy poppy seed topping: Adds a delightful crunch and extra flavor to each bite.
Easy and make-ahead: You can prep the sliders in advance, making them perfect for busy days or holiday entertaining.
These sliders not only capture the spirit of the season but are also simple enough to whip up any time of year when you’re craving a cozy, satisfying meal.
Ingredients for Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Here’s what you’ll need to make these scrumptious cranberry turkey sliders:
For the Sliders:
1 lb turkey breast (thinly sliced) or leftover turkey (about 16-20 slices, depending on size)
1 package slider buns (12-count)
1 cup cranberry sauce (either homemade or store-bought)
8 ounces Havarti cheese (sliced or shredded)
Butter (for greasing the pan)
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For the Poppy Seed Topping:
1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Make Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders are incredibly easy to make, with just a few simple steps that come together for a delicious and impressive result. Here’s how to prepare them:
1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or any large baking pan with a bit of butter to prevent the sliders from sticking.
2. Assemble the Sliders:
Slice the slider buns in half horizontally, keeping the top and bottom halves intact (as one unit) so they can be baked together as a set.
Place the bottom half of the buns in the prepared baking dish.
Spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce over the buns. Make sure to spread it evenly across the entire surface.
Layer the sliced turkey on top of the cranberry sauce. If you’re using leftover turkey, pile it on generously.
Add a layer of Havarti cheese on top of the turkey. Make sure to cover the turkey well with the cheese so it melts nicely during baking.
Place the top half of the buns over the cheese, completing the sandwich stacks.
3. Make the Poppy Seed Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, brown sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients into a smooth, glossy sauce.
Pour the poppy seed topping evenly over the top of the buns. Use a brush or spoon to coat the entire surface of the buns for that perfect, golden-brown finish.
4. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the sliders are warm and the cheese has melted.
After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sliders are crisp around the edges.
5. Serve & Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing. Use a serrated knife to cut along the seams of the buns to separate the sliders.
Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of turkey, cranberry, Havarti, and the crunchy poppy seed topping.
ENJOY AND PLEASE SHARE THIS RECIPE WITH YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS FOR MORE EASY RECIPESTHANK YOU SO MUCH
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Tips for the Best Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Use fresh turkey or leftovers: Whether you’re roasting a turkey breast or using leftover holiday turkey, fresh or cooked turkey both work beautifully in this recipe.
Don’t skip the poppy seed topping: The combination of butter, mustard, sugar, and spices creates an irresistible crust that gives the sliders a flavorful, crunchy finish. It’s what takes these sliders from delicious to unforgettable!
Make-ahead option: You can assemble the sliders a day in advance. Simply prepare the sliders up to the point where you add the poppy seed topping, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, just bake as directed.
Adjust cranberry sauce: If you love cranberry sauce, go ahead and add a little extra on each slider for even more flavor. For a twist, consider using whole berry cranberry sauce for added texture.
Cheese alternatives: If you’re not a fan of Havarti, you can use Swiss cheese, cheddar, or provolone for a different flavor profile. Choose a mild, melty cheese that complements the turkey and cranberry well.
Why You’ll Love These Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Perfect balance of flavors: The sweetness of the cranberry sauce, the creaminess of the Havarti, and the savory turkey create a harmonious combination that’s both satisfying and comforting.
Great for parties and gatherings: These sliders are ideal for holiday parties, game day, or any casual event where finger foods are a hit. They’re easy to serve, and everyone loves a good slider!
Make-ahead convenience: You can prep these sliders ahead of time, saving you time and stress on the day of the event. Simply bake and serve!
Kid-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these turkey sliders. They’re easy to hold and eat, making them perfect for picky eaters or family gatherings.
Crowd-pleasing: The combination of familiar flavors with a touch of sweetness from the cranberry and a crunchy topping makes these sliders a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders with Havarti & Poppy Seed Topping are a delicious twist on the traditional turkey sandwich, combining the classic flavors of Thanksgiving with a little extra flair. Whether you’re making them for a festive holiday meal or just as a quick and tasty weeknight dinner, these sliders are guaranteed to satisfy.
The sweet and savory combo, topped with a crunchy poppy seed crust, elevates these sliders to something truly special. Plus, they’re simple to prepare and can be made ahead for convenience—perfect for any occasion. Give them a try at your next gathering or dinner, and get ready for rave reviews!
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