When I first stumbled upon the magic of Cranberry Turkey Sliders, it was one of those happy kitchen surprises that shifted how I see nourishing meals. I remember it clearly—the chilly fall weekend, the farmers market brimming with fresh cranberries and soft dinner rolls, and a craving for something cozy yet uncomplicated. I was cooking for a small group of friends who appreciate simple food, but that doesn’t mean I could slack off on flavor or balance. These mini turkey sandwiches fit the bill perfectly.
Cranberry Turkey Sliders quickly earned a spot in my regular meal rotation because they bring together savory turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and soft buns in a way that feels indulgent without any stress. In my kitchen, they’re that wonderful middle ground between a quick, nourishing weekday dinner and a festive holiday spread. The best part? They are easy to customize, making them as flexible as your week demands. If you’re anything like me, juggling busy days with a genuine desire to eat well, these sliders offer a delicious, realistic solution.
What makes Cranberry Turkey Sliders feel sustainable is how forgiving they are to tweak. Whether I have leftover turkey, need a quick appetizer for a holiday party, or want a comforting mini turkey sandwich at lunchtime, this recipe adapts beautifully. Plus, adding a homemade touch of cranberry sauce or store-bought gives you that burst of seasonality and sweetness every time. If you’ve been eyeing a cranberry sauce slider recipe that’s both simple and satisfying, these sliders will become your new go-to. And hey, if you’re hunting down some ideas for a turkey cranberry appetizer or holiday party sliders, that’s right up their alley too.
This isn’t about perfection or endless fuss in the kitchen. It’s about creating nourishing food that feels good to make, share, and enjoy. If you’re a fellow home cook looking for easy, feel-good recipes with a touch of seasonal charm, these Cranberry Turkey Sliders are ready to become part of your kitchen story. Let’s dive into making them together!
What You’ll Need:
This Cranberry Turkey Sliders ingredient list is intentionally simple—because good food doesn’t need to be complicated. Here’s what you’ll gather to make about 12 sliders:
- 1 pound ground turkey (lean or regular, whichever you prefer)
- 12 mini slider buns (soft, fresh rolls – regular dinner rolls work great)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought – whole berry gives nice texture)
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion (yellow or sweet onion works well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or your favorite cooking oil)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional but adds a warm, herby note)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional but adds richness)
- Lettuce leaves or baby spinach (for freshness)
No stress if you don’t have cheddar cheese—I often skip it and still love how these Cranberry Turkey Sliders taste. If you prefer a milder cheese, Swiss or mozzarella works too. For a dairy-free option, try a flavorful avocado spread instead of cheese.
For cranberry sauce, you can grab a jar from the regular produce aisle; some brands keep it fresh and less sugary. If you want to try making your own, simmer fresh cranberries with a bit of orange juice and honey—super simple! This Cranberry Turkey Sliders recipe keeps costs low by relying on pantry staples and basic fresh produce, making it easy on any budget.
To save time, prep your onions and greens ahead or use pre-washed greens, then store any leftover cooked turkey patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Leftover cranberry sauce also freezes well in small portions, perfect for next time you need quick holiday party sliders.
I love adding extra thyme for a cozy aroma or doubling the cranberry sauce if my crowd leans sweet. These mini turkey sandwiches really let you mix and match flavors without fuss.

Let’s Make It Together!
Making Cranberry Turkey Sliders is straightforward, comforting kitchen fun. Here’s how I usually bring everything together, step-by-step:
- Prep your ingredients: Start by finely dicing the onion and washing your lettuce or spinach leaves. Gather your spices and have the cranberry sauce ready. This quick prep means your Cranberry Turkey Sliders come together without hiccups.
- Mix the turkey filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey with diced onion, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a fork to mix gently but thoroughly. This keeps your turkey tender and full of flavor.
- Shape the sliders: Form the turkey mixture into 12 small patties, about 2-3 inches wide. Don’t pack them too tight; a little looseness helps keep the texture nice when cooked.
- Heat your skillet: Warm olive oil over medium heat in a skillet. When hot, add patties. This Cranberry Turkey Sliders recipe usually takes about 4-5 minutes per side to get golden brown and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F if you like using a thermometer).
- Toast the buns: While your patties cook, slice the slider buns and toast them lightly in another pan or the oven. Toasted buns add a gentle crunch that stands up to the juicy turkey and cranberry sauce.
- Assemble your sliders: Spoon a generous layer of cranberry sauce on the bottom bun, then place the hot turkey patty on top. If you like cheese, sprinkle it over the patty while warm so it melts slightly. Add your fresh greens and close with the top bun.
- Serve and enjoy: Your Cranberry Turkey Sliders should smell wonderful by now, with that inviting mix of herbs, sweet cranberries, and savory turkey filling the air. Perfect time to set the table or prep a simple side like roasted veggies or a crisp salad.
Don’t worry if your first batch looks a bit rustic. These sliders are supposed to feel homemade and approachable. I used to overcomplicate this recipe by adding too many steps or ingredients, but simpler really is better here.
If you’re short on time, try baking your patties in the oven at 375°F for 15-18 minutes instead of pan-frying, then follow the rest as usual. Either way, these Cranberry Turkey Sliders come together in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
While the sliders cook, you might enjoy setting out some veggie sticks or prepping a quick cranberry jalapeno cream cheese dip alongside for extra holiday party sliders flair. If you love this cranberry turkey combo, you might also appreciate the comforting warmth of Turkey Burger Chili or the bright, sweet-savory notes in Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce.
How I Love to Serve This!
Cranberry Turkey Sliders aren’t just a snack—they can be a full-on feel-good meal. I love serving them with simple sides that complement without competing.
My favorite quick side? Roasted sweet potato wedges. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the tangy cranberry sauce slider recipe. Or a crunchy kale salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette keeps things fresh and bright alongside the savory turkey.
For holiday party sliders, I like to prep a variety of dips so guests can mix flavors. Creamy cranberry jalapeno cream cheese dip is a hit every time—check out my easy recipe here. It adds a little spice and creaminess that goes beautifully with these mini turkey sandwiches.
These Thanksgiving turkey sliders are fantastic for casual entertaining because they’re handheld and shareable. I’ve brought them to potlucks, weekend brunches, and even movie nights. Friends always ask for seconds—it’s the combo of warm turkey, cranberry, and melty cheese that wins hearts.
If you want a seasonal twist, I’ve swapped in brie cheese for a creamier texture, inspired by a favorite recipe for Turkey Cranberry Sliders with Brie. Another fun variation is adding crispy turkey bacon layered under the patty, giving these sliders a little smoky crunch similar to the Cheesy Cranberry Bacon and Turkey Sliders recipe.
Leftovers? They make a fantastic lunch the next day, either cold or reheated. Sometimes I swap the slider buns for whole grain toast for a quick midday mini turkey sandwich that keeps me fueled.

Common Questions Answered
Q: Can I make Cranberry Turkey Sliders ahead for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! The turkey patties hold up well in the fridge for 2-3 days. I recommend cooking the patties ahead and storing cranberry sauce separately to keep the buns from getting soggy. Assemble sliders just before serving. For holiday party sliders, prepping patties and toasting buns last minute keeps everything fresh.
Q: What if I don’t have all the ingredients for this Cranberry Turkey Sliders recipe?
A: No worries! You can swap ground turkey for ground chicken or even a plant-based meat substitute. Don’t have fresh onions? Onion powder works fine. For cranberry sauce, use jelly or chutney versions as a quick substitute. Cooking well in real life means making it work with what’s on hand.
Q: How can I adjust the flavor of Cranberry Turkey Sliders to my taste?
A: Play around with herbs and spices! Adding rosemary, sage, or even a pinch of smoked paprika changes the vibe. If you like it sweeter, stir in a little maple syrup with your cranberry sauce. Prefer it savory? Add a dab of mustard or a slice of sharp cheese. These sliders are forgiving in flavor tweaks.
Q: Are Cranberry Turkey Sliders suitable for kids?
A: Definitely! The sweet cranberry and mild turkey make these mini turkey sandwiches a kid-friendly hit. You can leave off onions or any strong herbs if you want. Serve with fun dipping options like honey mustard or plain yogurt.
Q: Can I freeze leftover turkey patties for later Cranberry Turkey Sliders?
A: Yes, freeze cooked patties in an airtight bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet or microwave before assembling your sliders.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover Cranberry Turkey Sliders?
A: I like reheating patties in a skillet over medium heat to keep the exterior crisp, then warming buns separately in the oven. Add fresh cranberry sauce and greens after reheating for the best texture.
Q: Do you recommend any toppings besides lettuce on these sliders?
A: Avocado slices, thin apple slices, or pickled red onions add exciting layers to this turkey cranberry appetizer. I sometimes add a smear of cream cheese or a spicy mayo for extra richness.
If you want more ideas that pair well with these sliders, check out my cozy Turkey Burger Chili or tangy Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce.
Final Thoughts
Cranberry Turkey Sliders hold a special place in my kitchen because they bring warmth and ease to everyday and festive meals alike. They remind me that nourishing food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming to feel celebratory and satisfying. This recipe has become my trusty choice for mini turkey sandwiches that please all kinds of appetites.
My Favorite Cranberry Turkey Sliders Tips:
- Use whole berry cranberry sauce for texture and flavor impact.
- Don’t overmix turkey to keep patties tender and juicy.
- Toast buns just before assembling for the perfect balance of soft and crisp.
I’ve tried a few fun variations over time: swapping cheddar for brie, adding turkey bacon for crunch, or mixing herbs based on season. The version I return to most often is the simple classic with sharp cheddar and fresh spinach for that familiar comforting combo.
I hope you find as much joy in making this cranberry sauce slider recipe as I do. It’s a recipe that invites you to make it your own, whether for a quick weeknight dinner or those busy holiday party sliders moments.
Give these Cranberry Turkey Sliders a try, and I’m cheering you on from my kitchen to yours—may you enjoy every bite of this feel-good, real-life recipe!
For more easy, nourishing meals with turkey, check out these favorites: Turkey Burger Chili, Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce, and a crowd-pleasing Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip. For a twist on holiday sliders, don’t miss out on these ideas from Cranberry Turkey Sliders – Thanksgiving Leftovers Recipe, Cheesy Cranberry Bacon and Turkey Sliders – Simple Seasonal, or Turkey Cranberry Sliders with Brie at Grilled Cheese Social.
Enjoy these Cranberry Turkey Sliders and happy cooking, friend!
Cranberry Turkey Sliders
These Cranberry Turkey Sliders combine savory ground turkey with tangy cranberry sauce for a delicious and festive bite-sized sandwich, perfect for holiday gatherings or quick snacks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 12 slider buns
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 6 slices provolone cheese, halved
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh spinach or lettuce leaves for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Form the mixture into 12 small patties, about the size of your slider buns.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook patties for 4-5 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- Place a halved slice of provolone cheese on each patty and allow to melt slightly.
- Slice slider buns in half and lightly toast them in the oven or on a skillet.
- Spread cranberry sauce on the bottom half of each bun.
- Place the turkey patty with melted cheese on the cranberry spread, top with spinach or lettuce, and cover with the top bun.
- Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
For extra flavor, try adding a spread of Dijon mustard or a slice of crispy bacon to each slider.

