Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders with Havarti & Poppy Seed Topping Recipe
Looking for a mouthwatering way to use up leftover turkey or elevate your holiday gathering? These Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders with Havarti cheese and a poppy seed topping are the perfect blend of savory and sweet. They’re simple to make, easy to serve, and loved by adults and kids alike. The combination of tender turkey, creamy Havarti, and tangy cranberry sauce in warm slider rolls makes these a standout dish at any table.
Ingredients
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider rolls or dinner rolls
- 2 cups cooked turkey (sliced or shredded)
- 6-8 slices Havarti cheese
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional, for added creaminess)
For the Poppy Seed Topping:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Slider Rolls
- Slice the slider rolls in half horizontally as a single unit so that you have a top and bottom section.
- Place the bottom half in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
- Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise (optional) on the bottom half of the rolls.
- Layer the cooked turkey evenly across the bread.
- Spoon the cranberry sauce over the turkey, spreading it evenly.
- Place the Havarti cheese slices on top, covering the cranberry layer.
Step 4: Add the Top Layer
- Place the top half of the rolls on the cheese layer, pressing gently to secure everything.
Step 5: Prepare the Poppy Seed Topping
- In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter.
- Stir in the poppy seeds, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.
Step 6: Brush the Topping
- Use a pastry brush to generously brush the poppy seed mixture over the tops of the rolls. Make sure each roll is well-coated for a flavorful finish.
Step 7: Bake the Sliders
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. This helps melt the cheese and warm the sliders without drying them out.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and slightly crispy.
Step 8: Serve
- Let the sliders cool for a few minutes before cutting them apart. Serve warm, and watch them disappear!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: These sliders are best served fresh and warm. Pair them with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain their crispness.
Helpful Notes
- Cheese Alternatives: Havarti offers a creamy, slightly tangy flavor, but Swiss, provolone, or gouda work well if you prefer.
- Cranberry Sauce Tips: Homemade cranberry sauce with orange zest and a hint of cinnamon can add a unique twist.
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the sliders and cover them with foil without the butter topping. Refrigerate for up to 12 hours. Add the topping just before baking.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Ina Garten: “Always use good-quality bread for sliders. Fresh rolls will make a big difference in texture and flavor.”
- Chef Gordon Ramsay: “Brush a touch of butter around the edges of your rolls to create a crispy, golden finish.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use leftover chicken instead of turkey? Yes, shredded or sliced chicken works perfectly in this recipe as a substitute for turkey.
2. How can I make this dish vegetarian? Replace the turkey with a vegetarian meat substitute or roasted vegetables like mushrooms and squash. Havarti still pairs beautifully with these alternatives.
3. Can I add more toppings? Certainly! Thinly sliced onions or a layer of baby spinach can add extra flavor and texture.
4. Is there a way to make these sliders spicier? Add a dash of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the poppy seed topping for a kick.
5. Can I use a different mustard? Yes, honey mustard or whole-grain mustard are good substitutes if you prefer a sweeter or grainier taste.
6. What if I don’t have poppy seeds? Omit them or use sesame seeds for a similar texture and look.
7. How do I prevent the sliders from becoming soggy? Ensure the cranberry sauce isn’t too watery, and lightly pat the turkey slices dry before assembling.
8. Can I freeze leftover sliders? Yes, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
9. What side dishes go well with these sliders? Crispy sweet potato fries, a holiday slaw, or roasted Brussels sprouts make excellent pairings.
10. Can I add more cheese? Absolutely, if you’re a cheese lover, add another layer or use shredded cheese between the turkey and cranberry sauce.
These Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders with Havarti and Poppy Seed Topping are a delightful blend of holiday flavors that work for any occasion. Quick to prepare and bursting with taste, they’re bound to be the highlight of your table!