Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders

These easy-to-make sliders are perfect for using up Thanksgiving leftovers. The combination of turkey, cranberry sauce, and melty cheese baked on soft slider buns creates a delicious, sweet, and savory treat everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• 12 slider buns
• 1 ½ cups leftover turkey (sliced or shredded)
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 6 slices of Swiss or provolone cheese (cut to fit sliders)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Assemble the Sliders:
   • Slice the slider buns in half horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms intact.
   • Place the bottom halves in the prepared baking dish.
   • Layer the turkey evenly over the bottom buns, followed by cranberry sauce, and then cheese slices.
   • Add the top halves of the buns.
3. Prepare the Butter Mixture:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the Sliders:
   Generously brush the butter mixture over the tops of the sliders, ensuring they are fully coated for maximum flavor.
5. Bake:
   Cover the sliders with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve:
   Remove the sliders from the oven, let them cool slightly, and cut them apart. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes:

• Variations: Add stuffing or gravy to the sliders for extra flavor.
• Storage: Leftover sliders can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12 sliders

These sliders are a crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to repurpose turkey and cranberry sauce into a mouthwatering snack or meal!

Health Benefits of Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders

This recipe combines lean protein, antioxidants, and energy-boosting ingredients, offering several nutritional advantages for women, pregnant women, men, and children:

For Women

1. Protein Support:
   • Turkey provides high-quality protein that helps build and repair tissues and supports muscle health.
2. Antioxidant Boost:
   • Cranberries are rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants, promoting skin health and supporting the immune system.
3. Bone Health:
   • The cheese in this recipe offers calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and preventing osteoporosis.

For Pregnant Women

1. Iron and Energy:
   • Turkey is a good source of iron, crucial for preventing anemia and supporting oxygen transport in the body during pregnancy.
2. Folic Acid:
   • Cranberries contain small amounts of folate, important for fetal development and reducing the risk of neural tube defects.
3. Immune Support:
   • Vitamin C from cranberries helps boost immunity, a benefit for both mom and baby.
4. Digestive Health:
   • Whole cranberry sauce contains dietary fiber, which can help alleviate pregnancy-related constipation.

For Men

1. Muscle Recovery:
   • The lean protein in turkey supports muscle building and recovery, especially for active individuals.
2. Heart Health:
   • Cranberries contain compounds that help reduce bad cholesterol and support cardiovascular health.
3. Energy:
   • The combination of protein and carbs from the buns provides sustained energy throughout the day.

For Children

1. Growth and Development:
   • Turkey is rich in protein, which is essential for growing muscles, bones, and tissues in children.
2. Brain Health:
   • Cranberries contain antioxidants that may support cognitive development and protect brain cells.
3. Calcium Intake:
   • Cheese provides calcium, which is vital for building strong teeth and bones.
4. Appealing Meal:
   • The sweet and savory flavors make this an enjoyable way to introduce kids to nutritious leftovers.

General Benefits

• Low in Saturated Fat: Using lean turkey keeps this dish heart-healthy.
• Balanced Nutrients: The combination of protein, healthy fats, and carbs makes it a well-rounded meal or snack.
• Immune-Boosting: Antioxidants from cranberries can reduce inflammation and support overall health.

Cautions

• For pregnant women and children, ensure the turkey is fully cooked to avoid foodborne illnesses.
• Moderation with cheese and butter is recommended for individuals watching their cholesterol or calorie intake.

This dish not only repurposes leftovers but also provides a nutritious and satisfying meal for the whole family!