For the Sweet & Savory Base
12–15 Sweet Hawaiian Rolls (or King’s Hawaiian-style)
3 cups prepared stuffing (homemade or boxed mix)
2 cups cooked turkey, sliced or shredded (leftover or deli-sliced)
½ cup cranberry sauce, homemade or canned
For the Flavor-Boosting Spreads
2 tbsp Dijon mustard (divided)
¼ cup (60g) salted butter, melted
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (adds umami depth)
1 tsp dried minced onion
1 tsp poppy seeds (for crunch and shine)
✅ Optional Upgrades:
Add a slice of cheddar or brie cheese
Swap turkey for roasted chicken or ham
Add a splash of gravy inside each slider
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Oven & Prep Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Slice Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally and place the bottom halves in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Layer the Stuffing
Spread stuffing evenly over the bottom roll layer.
✅ Press down gently so it stays put.
3. Add the Turkey
Layer turkey slices over the stuffing, covering completely.
4. Mix & Spread Cranberry-Dijon Sauce
In a small bowl:
Combine cranberry sauce and 1½ tsp Dijon mustard.
Spread this sweet-tangy mixture over the turkey layer.
✅ This cuts the richness and adds bright flavor.
5. Top with Roll Lids
Place the top halves of the rolls over the filling to form complete sandwiches.
6. Make the Butter Glaze
In another bowl:
Whisk together melted butter, remaining 1½ tsp Dijon, Worcestershire sauce, dried onion, and poppy seeds.
7. Brush with Golden Glaze
Spoon or brush the butter mixture evenly over the tops of the rolls.
✅ Get into every nook so every bite is flavorful.
8. Bake Until Golden & Warm
Cover loosely with foil and bake 10 minutes.
Remove foil and bake 5 more minutes, until tops are golden and crisp.
✅ Watch closely—the sweet rolls can brown fast!
9. Serve Warm & Delicious
Let cool 2–3 minutes—they’re hot inside!
Use a serrated knife to cut into individual sliders.
Serve warm on a platter with napkins—these are juicy!
Pair with:
A simple green salad
Roasted vegetables
Extra cranberry sauce for dipping
✅ Leftovers? Reheat in the oven—the texture holds perfectly!
You Must Know
Use soft rolls —stale ones won’t absorb the glaze well.
Don’t skip the poppy seeds —they add visual appeal and subtle crunch.
Tastes better the next day? Reheats beautifully in oven or air fryer.
Freezer-friendly —cool completely and freeze up to 3 months.
Storage Tips
Store cooled sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes (best texture). Microwave works but may soften edges.
Freeze for up to 3 months —thaw overnight before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Hawaiian rolls
Brioche buns, potato rolls, or dinner rolls
For sweetness or softness
Turkey
Chicken, ham, or tofu slices
For variation
Cranberry sauce
Apple butter, fig jam, or cherry preserves
Fruity alternatives
Dijon mustard
Whole grain or yellow mustard
Tang substitutes
Stuffing
Dressing mix, quinoa, or breadcrumbs
Dietary needs
Serving Suggestions
Serve family-style right in the baking dish.
Great for potlucks—bring the whole pan!
Double the batch and freeze half for future joy.
Pack in lunchboxes (reheat safely).
Cultural Context
Rooted in American holiday traditions and modern “leftover hacks,” this recipe celebrates how beloved flavors—turkey, stuffing, cranberries—can be reimagined. Found at post-feast tables, creative kitchens, and game-day spreads alike, it honors the joy of sharing food made with love.
Pro Tips
Double the recipe? Yes—perfect for feeding a crowd. Use two pans.
Want more heat? Add a pinch of cayenne or sriracha to the glaze.
Make ahead: Assemble unbaked sliders and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready.
Label your dish: People will ask for the recipe.
Say “ready?” before serving —it’s part of the ritual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Assemble and refrigerate overnight. Bake just before serving.
Q: Why did my rolls get soggy?
A: Likely too much sauce or not baked long enough. Drain excess cranberry sauce and ensure final bake is uncovered.
Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Only if using GF rolls, stuffing, and verify all ingredients.
Q: Can I use frozen stuffing?
A: Yes! Thaw and warm slightly before layering.
Q: Can I air fry them?
A: Not the full batch—but reheat individual sliders at 350°F for 4–6 mins.
Allergy Information
Contains: dairy (butter), eggs (in rolls), wheat (in rolls, stuffing).
Gluten-free option: Use certified GF rolls and stuffing.
Nut-free: This recipe is naturally nut-free.
Always check labels—especially on processed rolls, sauces, and seasonings.
Nutrition Facts (Per Slider – Approximate)
Based on 12 servings
Calories: 210
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 9g
Sodium: 380mg
Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on brands and substitutions. Not intended as medical advice.
These sliders don’t shout. They emerge golden from the oven, fragrant and inviting, saying everything a great treat should: “Grab me. Share me… maybe.” That’s how the best ones begin—not with silence, but with turkey, tenderness, and someone who says, “Let’s make it together.”
