If you’re searching for a crowd-pleaser that marries savory and sweet in the most delightful way, the Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders with Havarti & Poppy Seed Topping Recipe will become your new go-to. Picture tender deli turkey layered on soft Hawaiian rolls, smeared with tangy cranberry sauce, melted creamy Havarti cheese, and crowned with a buttery poppy seed topping that bakes into golden perfection. Each bite bursts with flavor and texture, making these sliders perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or an elevated weeknight snack that feels special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each bringing something special to the Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders with Havarti & Poppy Seed Topping Recipe. The Hawaiian rolls provide a soft, slightly sweet base, while the turkey brings savory goodness. The cranberry sauce adds that essential pop of tart sweetness, balancing out the creamy Havarti cheese. The topping ingredients come together to create an irresistible golden crust that finishes the sliders beautifully.
- Hawaiian rolls (16 oz, 12 count): These rolls are soft and subtly sweet, perfect for absorbing all those flavorful layers.
- Deli turkey (1 lb, sliced): Choose a quality turkey for a tender, savory filling that stands up to the cranberry’s sweetness.
- Cranberry sauce (1 cup, jellied or whole berry): Adds bright acidity and sweetness, a holiday classic that shines in this sandwich.
- Havarti or Provolone cheese (6 slices): Creamy and mild, this cheese melts perfectly for an indulgent layer.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, melted): A rich base for the poppy seed topping that helps it crisp and brown.
- Worcestershire sauce (2 teaspoons): Introduces deep umami and complexity to the topping mixture.
- Dijon mustard (2 teaspoons): Gives a subtle tang that cuts through the richness nicely.
- Minced dried onion (2 teaspoons): Adds a gentle onion flavor and texture to the topping.
- Poppy seeds (2 teaspoons): This imparts a nutty crunch, making the topping stand out both visually and in taste.
- Fresh minced chives (2 teaspoons): Delivers a fresh herbal note, brightening the flavors and adding color.
How to Make Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders with Havarti & Poppy Seed Topping Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Rolls
Start by slicing the entire package of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally to create two even layers. Keeping them attached makes assembly easy and ensures that your sliders hold together beautifully throughout baking.
Step 2: Layer the Turkey and Cranberry
Next, arrange the deli turkey evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Slather the cranberry sauce generously over the turkey, whether you prefer the smooth jellied or chunky whole berry style—both work equally well and add that essential sweet-tart pop that sets these sliders apart.
Step 3: Add the Havarti Cheese
Place the six slices of Havarti or Provolone cheese evenly over the cranberry-turkey layer. The cheese will melt and bind the sandwich layers during baking, creating a creamy indulgence you’ll crave.
Step 4: Mix and Apply the Poppy Seed Topping
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced dried onion, poppy seeds, and fresh minced chives. Brush this mixture generously over the cut side of the top half of the rolls. This topping will bake into a golden, flavorful crust that perfectly complements the softness inside.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Melty
Carefully place the top half of the rolls back onto the bottom half, pressing lightly to secure. Wrap the entire pan tightly with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the topping is golden and the cheese is bubbling to perfection.
How to Serve Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders with Havarti & Poppy Seed Topping Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these already flavorful sliders, consider adding a small sprig of fresh thyme or a light dusting of extra minced chives on top after baking. These simple garnishes bring fresh color and a subtle herbal aroma that nicely contrast with the savory-sweet filling.
Side Dishes
These sliders pair wonderfully with crisp, fresh sides. Think a crunchy green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to brighten the richness, or classic oven-baked sweet potato fries for comforting, crispy texture. For a festive touch, roasted Brussels sprouts with a balsamic glaze are a shining companion to the sliders’ autumnal flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party presentation that wows, serve the Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders with Havarti & Poppy Seed Topping Recipe on a rustic wooden board surrounded by small bowls of extra cranberry sauce and mustard for dipping. Alternatively, slice the sliders apart and serve them as little open-faced bites topped with microgreens for an elegant appetizer spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any sliders left over (though that rarely happens), wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay tasty for up to 3 days, making for easy grab-and-go lunches or quick snacks.
Freezing
For longer storage, these sliders freeze well. Separate them into individual sandwich-sized portions wrapped tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat the sliders in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes, loosely wrapped in foil to avoid drying out the rolls. This gentle reheating preserves the melty cheese and keeps the poppy seed topping delightfully crisp.
FAQs
Can I make these sliders vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the turkey for your favorite plant-based deli slices or even hearty roasted vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant. The cranberry sauce and Havarti cheese will still shine beautifully.
What if I don’t have Havarti cheese?
You can substitute Provolone, mozzarella, or even Swiss cheese. Choose a cheese that melts well and has mild flavor to complement the cranberry and turkey layers.
Can I use fresh onion instead of dried minced onion?
Yes, but keep the quantity small—about 1 teaspoon finely minced fresh onion—to avoid overpowering the other flavors. The dried onion is more subtle and blends smoothly into the topping.
Is it okay to prepare the sliders entirely in advance?
You can assemble the sliders up to a day before baking and keep them wrapped tightly in the fridge. Baking fresh before serving guarantees the best texture and flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free rolls or buns and ensure any Worcestershire sauce you use is gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these amazing sliders without worry.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders with Havarti & Poppy Seed Topping Recipe captures all the cozy, festive flavors we crave during the cooler months, wrapped up in a conveniently handheld form that’s perfect for sharing. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe for every special occasion or casual gathering. Trust me, these sliders will delight your taste buds and your guests alike. Go ahead and give it a try — your next favorite slider is just an oven away!
Print
Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders with Havarti & Poppy Seed Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders with Havarti & Poppy Seed Topping are a perfect blend of savory deli turkey, creamy Havarti cheese, and sweet-tart cranberry sauce layered on soft Hawaiian rolls. Topped with a flavorful poppy seed butter mixture and baked to golden perfection, these sliders make an ideal party appetizer or quick and delicious meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Slider Ingredients
- 1 (16 oz) package Hawaiian rolls (12 count)
- 1 lb deli turkey, sliced
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (jellied or whole berry)
- 6 slices Havarti or Provolone cheese
Topping Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons minced dried onion
- 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
- 2 teaspoons fresh minced chives
Instructions
- Prep the rolls: Carefully slice the package of Hawaiian rolls horizontally in half, keeping the rolls connected in one large rectangular piece for easier assembly.
- Assemble the sliders: Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Then layer the sliced deli turkey evenly over the cranberry sauce. Next, place the 6 slices of Havarti or Provolone cheese over the turkey, distributing evenly.
- Mix the topping: In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced dried onion, poppy seeds, and fresh minced chives. Stir until all ingredients are well blended.
- Apply topping and bake: Brush the poppy seed butter mixture generously over the top half of the rolls. Then place the top half over the assembled bottom half to form the sliders. Place the entire sandwich on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the rolls are lightly toasted.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and carefully cut the sliders between each roll. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute Havarti with Provolone or another mild cheese of your choice.
- For a more intense onion flavor, replace minced dried onion with fresh minced onion.
- These sliders can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven to maintain crispness.
- Make sure to brush the topping evenly to achieve a golden crust and rich flavor.
