Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Gooey double-layered Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, planning a family gathering, or simply craving a comforting snack, these sliders will impress your guests. The creamy Havarti cheese pairs beautifully with the tartness of cranberry sauce, all sandwiched between soft Hawaiian rolls and baked to perfection. They are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These sliders come together in just 40 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute meal or snack.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of turkey, cheese, and cranberry is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
• Versatile: Change up the ingredients by using different cheeses or adding extra veggies for a personalized touch.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prep these sliders in advance and bake them when you’re ready to serve, saving you time.
• Comfort Food: With their gooey cheese and sweet-tart cranberry flavor, these sliders are the ultimate comfort food.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (9 x 13)
• Pastry brush
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good quality baking dish ensures even cooking and makes it easy to serve.
• Pastry brush: This tool allows you to evenly apply the butter mixture on top of the buns for added flavor.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Perfect for melting the butter quickly without fuss.

Ingredients

Gooey double-layered Havarti with tart cranberries and turkey are sandwiched in Hawaiian rolls and baked up with a butter sauce to make an irresistible treat.

For the Sliders

• 1 – 12 count package of Hawaiian rolls (dinner rolls will work if you can’t find Hawaiian rolls)
• 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

How to Make Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that your sliders bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Buns

1. Cut the slab of buns in half horizontally so you have tops and bottoms in two pieces.
2. Lightly grease a 9 x 13 baking dish.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

1. Place the bottom buns into the prepared baking dish.
2. Spread half of the sliced Havarti cheese on top of the bottom buns.
3. Layer all of the turkey slices over the cheese.
4. Spread cranberry sauce evenly over the turkey.
5. Cover with remaining cheese slices.
6. Top with the other half of the buns.

Step 4: Make the Butter Mixture

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt butter until liquid.
2. Stir in poppy seeds, sesame seeds, Dijon mustard, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar until well combined.

Step 5: Bake

1. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the tops and sides of the buns with the butter mixture.
2. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and cheese melts.
3. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until tops are golden brown and crisp.

Step 6: Serve

Allow sliders to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders!

How to Serve Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a casual gathering or a cozy family dinner, these sliders can be dressed up or served simply to suit your occasion.

Casual Gatherings

• Buffet Style: Place the sliders on a large platter for guests to help themselves. Pair with toothpicks for easy serving.
• Mini Sandwich Bar: Set up a DIY sandwich station with toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and additional sauces for customization.

Game Day Snacks

• Finger Food Platter: Serve with chips, pretzels, and veggie sticks for a fun game day spread.
• Dipping Sauces: Offer an assortment of dipping sauces, such as ranch or spicy mustard, to elevate the flavor.

Family Dinners

• Accompany with Soup: Pair the sliders with a warm soup like tomato or butternut squash for a comforting meal.
• Family-Style Serving: Serve in the baking dish straight from the oven for a cozy and informal dinner setting.

How to Perfect Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Perfecting your Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders ensures they are always a hit. Keep these tips in mind when making them.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Choose fresh turkey, quality Havarti cheese, and homemade cranberry sauce for the best flavor.
• Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the Hawaiian rolls before assembling to add texture and prevent sogginess.
• Layer Evenly: Spread ingredients evenly across the sliders for consistent flavor in every bite.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the sliders while baking; golden tops indicate they’re perfectly crisped.
• Let Them Rest: Allow the baked sliders to cool slightly before cutting; this helps keep the cheese intact when serving.

Best Side Dishes for Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders

When serving Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders, pairing them with complementary side dishes enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet and savory fries add crunch and balance.
2. Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette provides a light contrast.
3. Vegetable Platter: Raw veggies like carrots and bell peppers served with hummus offer healthy crunches.
4. Coleslaw: This creamy side adds texture and tanginess that pairs well with sliders.
5. Potato Chips: Classic potato chips provide salty snacking that complements the richness of the sliders.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and color to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders even more delicious. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using stale rolls: Fresh Hawaiian rolls yield the best texture. Always check for freshness before using.
• Ignoring cheese placement: Distributing cheese evenly ensures every bite is gooey and flavorful. Don’t skimp on the layers!
• Skipping the butter mixture: This adds flavor and helps crisp the tops of the buns. Don’t forget to brush it on generously.
• Overcrowding the filling: Too much turkey or cranberry can cause spills during baking. Stick to recommended amounts for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sliders in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and safety.

Freezing Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders:

Can I use different types of cheese?

You can substitute Havarti with other meltable cheeses like provolone or mozzarella for varied flavors.

How do I make cranberry sauce from scratch?

Combine fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange juice in a pot. Simmer until thickened; this takes about 20 minutes.

Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble them a day before and store them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What are some great side dishes to serve with sliders?

Pair these sliders with a fresh salad, sweet potato fries, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Final Thoughts

These Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders are not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize them by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the seasonings. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!