These Turkey Sliders on soft Hawaiian rolls are a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Packed with lean protein from turkey and calcium-rich Swiss cheese, they provide a balanced bite while keeping saturated fat moderate.
Easy to assemble and baked to perfection, they’re a crowd-pleasing, protein-forward option for meal prep or party appetizers.
Turkey Sliders
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Foil
- Microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan
- Pastry brush (optional)
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- ¾ pound thinly sliced deli turkey
- ¾ pound thinly sliced Swiss cheese
- ½ cup unsalted butter 1 stick
- ½ tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tablespoon everything bagel seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, line a 9×13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Make sure the foil extends over the edges so you can lift the sliders out effortlessly later.Lightly spray the bottom of the pan with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the rolls from sticking and ensure a perfect bake.
- Slice the Hawaiian Rolls: Without separating the rolls from the cluster, carefully slice the entire set of 12 Hawaiian rolls horizontally. This creates a top and bottom layer that will hold the fillings. Take care to slice evenly so each slider has the same amount of bread, ensuring uniform cooking and a balanced bite.
- Layer the Bottom Rolls: Place the bottom halves of the rolls snugly in the prepared pan. Make sure they are touching slightly, as this helps the sliders hold together during baking. Press lightly to create a firm base but avoid squishing them, so they maintain their soft, fluffy texture.
- Add the Turkey: Take your thinly sliced deli turkey and layer it evenly over the bottom rolls. Arrange the slices so each slider will get a generous portion. The turkey provides lean protein, making these sliders both satisfying and nutritious.
- Layer the Cheese: Next, place the Swiss cheese slices evenly over the turkey layer. The cheese should cover all the turkey edges to ensure every slider has a gooey, melty center. Swiss cheese adds calcium and a rich, creamy flavor that perfectly complements the turkey.
- Place the Top Rolls: Carefully place the top halves of the Hawaiian rolls over the cheese. Make sure the tops are aligned with the bottom layer to create neat, uniform sliders. Press gently to help the ingredients settle without compressing the bread too much.
- Prepare the Butter Glaze: In a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan, melt the ½ cup of unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in ½ tablespoon of Dijon mustard, ½ tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and ½ tablespoon of everything bagel seasoning. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated. This glaze will soak into the bread and add a rich, savory flavor.
- Brush the Rolls with Butter Mixture: Using a pastry brush, generously brush the butter mixture over the tops of all the rolls. Make sure to coat them evenly, so each slider is infused with the buttery, tangy seasoning. Allow the coated rolls to rest for 5 minutes to let the bread absorb some of the flavorful butter, enhancing the overall taste.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking pan with foil to prevent the tops from browning too quickly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the sliders to heat through completely and ensures the cheese melts evenly throughout.
- Uncover and Finish Baking: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes. This step creates a lightly golden, slightly crisp top layer while keeping the interior soft and gooey. Check that the cheese is fully melted and the sliders are warm in the center.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sliders from the oven and let them sit for a couple of minutes before slicing or serving. This rest period allows the layers to settle and makes serving easier. Serve warm as a delicious appetizer, snack, or main dish. These sliders are perfect for parties, game days, or a simple, protein-packed meal.
- Storage Tips (Optional): If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.For longer storage, freeze the sliders for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results to maintain that soft, cheesy texture.
Notes
- Use fresh Hawaiian rolls for the softest, fluffiest sliders.
- Thinly sliced turkey and cheese melt best; avoid thick cuts.
- Let the butter mixture sit on top rolls for 5 minutes to enhance flavor absorption.
- Cover with foil during most of the baking process to prevent over-browning.
- Customize with additional toppings like pickles, caramelized onions, or arugula for extra flavor.
- For extra crispiness, brush a little extra butter and broil the sliders for 1–2 minutes at the end.
- Sliders are perfect for meal prep: assemble ahead and bake right before serving.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Sliders
Achieving the perfect Turkey Sliders is all about balance and timing.
Start with quality ingredients, such as freshly baked Hawaiian rolls and thinly sliced, lean deli turkey, to ensure tenderness and flavor.
When layering, distribute the cheese evenly to promote consistent melting, and let the butter glaze soak into the bread for at least 5 minutes before baking.
Using foil during the initial bake locks in moisture, keeping the sliders soft, while uncovering them for the final few minutes creates a lightly golden crust on top.
Finally, slice carefully after baking to prevent the layers from shifting, and consider using a serrated knife for clean, even cuts.
Serving Suggestions for Every Occasion
These sliders are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
Serve them warm as a main course with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
They also shine as appetizers or game-day snacks alongside dipping sauces like honey mustard, spicy mayo, or ranch.
For a more festive presentation, arrange sliders on a platter garnished with fresh herbs, and pair them with pickles, olives, or a bowl of crunchy chips.
They’re also perfect for buffet-style meals, parties, or casual family dinners where guests can help themselves.
Storage Tips for Freshness
To keep your Turkey Sliders tasting fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When reheating, cover the sliders with foil and warm them in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes to maintain softness and melt the cheese perfectly.
For longer storage, wrap sliders individually in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Avoid microwaving directly, as it may make the bread soggy and the cheese unevenly melted.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese provides a mild, creamy flavor, you can substitute cheddar, provolone, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different taste. Just make sure the cheese melts well to keep the sliders gooey and satisfying.
2. Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the sliders the day before and cover them tightly with plastic wrap.
Store in the fridge and bake them the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if necessary. This makes them convenient for parties or meal prep.
3. How can I make the sliders spicier?
Add a layer of sliced jalapeños, a drizzle of sriracha, or a pinch of cayenne to the butter glaze for a subtle kick. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of Swiss for extra heat.
4. Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free rolls?
Yes, you can! Whole wheat or gluten-free rolls work well, though the texture may be slightly denser than traditional Hawaiian rolls.
Make sure to adjust baking time if needed, as different breads may heat more slowly.
5. What’s the best way to serve them warm?
Serve sliders immediately after baking while the cheese is fully melted and the bread is soft.
If preparing ahead, reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil for about 10 minutes to preserve their texture and flavor. Avoid the microwave for optimal results.
