Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders: 5 Irresistible Bites

If you’ve ever wondered what to do with leftover turkey—or you just crave something that feels fancy without actually requiring effort—these Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders are about to be your new obsession.

They’re the perfect mix of sweet cranberry, creamy Havarti, and buttery Hawaiian rolls baked to golden perfection. Whether it’s the day after Thanksgiving or a busy Wednesday night, these sliders deliver comfort, flavor, and just a touch of holiday nostalgia… without the stress of a big meal.

So, grab your baking dish and a napkin (trust me, things are about to get deliciously messy).

Why You’ll Love These Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Let’s talk about what makes these sliders so special:

• Effortless prep. You’ll be ready to bake in under 10 minutes.
• Crowd-pleasing flavor. The combo of Havarti and cranberry sauce hits that sweet-savory balance perfectly.
• Perfect for leftovers. Whether it’s Thanksgiving turkey or deli slices, this recipe gives them new life.
• They bake all at once. Meaning you can feed a small crowd without standing at the stove flipping sandwiches!

These little golden beauties are ideal for game days, potlucks, or cozy family nights when you want something comforting yet classy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Sliders:

• 1 (12-count) package of Hawaiian rolls (Dinner rolls work too if that’s what you’ve got!)
• 12 ounces sliced deli turkey (or thinly sliced leftover turkey)
• 8 ounces Havarti cheese, sliced
• ½ cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade—no judgment here!)

For the Buttery Topping:

• ½ cup melted butter
• 1 tsp poppy seeds
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tsp brown sugar

How to Make Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Step 1: Prep the oven.
Preheat to 350°F. Spray or lightly butter a 9×13 baking dish.

Step 2: Build your slider base.
Without separating the rolls, slice them in half horizontally so you have one big “bottom” and one big “top.” Place the bottoms into your greased baking dish.

Step 3: Layer like a pro.
Spread half of the Havarti slices across the bottom layer. Then pile on the turkey (don’t be shy—it’s what makes these sliders hearty!).

Step 4: Add the cranberry love.
Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the turkey. This gives every bite that sweet, tangy pop.

Step 5: Top it off.
Layer the rest of the Havarti slices and place the top buns back on.

Step 6: Whip up the butter magic.
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, Dijon mustard, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Stir it well until everything’s beautifully mixed.

Step 7: Brush and bake.
Brush the buttery mixture over the tops and sides of the buns. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15–20 minutes, until the sliders are heated through and the cheese is melted.

Step 8: Get that golden finish.
Remove the foil and bake for an extra 5–7 minutes until the tops are lightly crisped and golden brown.

Step 9: Cool (just a little!) and enjoy.
Let the sliders rest for a few minutes before cutting. Then, pull them apart and serve warm.

Aneta’s Kitchen Tip

Don’t worry if your cranberry sauce looks a little uneven—it’s all part of the charm! These sliders are meant to be rustic and gooey.

If you want a little extra kick, mix a teaspoon of horseradish or a spoonful of spicy mustard into your cranberry sauce. It adds a grown-up twist that balances the sweetness beautifully.

And if you’re feeling fancy? Sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top before baking. Chef’s kiss!

A Little Story from My Kitchen

The first time I made these, it was the day after Thanksgiving. My fridge was overflowing with leftovers, and I was craving something cozy but different.

I layered turkey, Havarti (because that’s what was left from my charcuterie board), and cranberry sauce on some Hawaiian rolls—and the moment they came out of the oven, my family attacked them like seagulls at a picnic.

Now it’s a yearly tradition. Even my picky eater asks, “Are we making the turkey sliders again this year?” And honestly… I wouldn’t have it any other way.

FAQ: All About Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders

Bringing It All Together

These Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders are more than just a way to use up leftovers—they’re a cozy, crave-worthy meal that brings everyone to the table.

They’re sweet, savory, buttery, and just messy enough to remind you that the best meals are the ones you enjoy with your hands (and a few napkins).

So next time you’re staring at that container of turkey in your fridge, remember: magic is just a few Hawaiian rolls away.

More Recipes You’ll Love from Chicken Magic

If these Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders made your heart (and taste buds) happy, you’ll definitely want to explore a few more comforting dishes that bring that same cozy, crave-worthy vibe. Here are some perfect pairings and seasonal favorites to keep your menu magic going:

• Try these Turkey Stuffing Balls — a bite-sized, savory way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers that pairs beautifully with any slider spread.
• Add a touch of freshness with this Apple Arugula Salad — crisp, tangy, and the perfect balance to the buttery richness of your sliders.
• For another cranberry-inspired dish that’ll wow your family, check out my Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast — juicy, flavorful, and ideal for the holidays.
• And when your sweet tooth starts whispering, treat yourself to a cozy dessert like the Crockpot Gooey Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake — it’s pure comfort in a bowl and takes minimal effort.

Each of these recipes brings its own kind of kitchen joy — from light and fresh to decadently sweet — and they all fit beautifully alongside your new favorite Havarti Cranberry Turkey Sliders.

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