Easy Oven Baked Turkey Cheese Sliders Recipe

Let me tell you, finding a recipe that’s both incredibly easy to make and a guaranteed hit with everyone from picky eaters to seasoned foodies can feel like searching for a culinary unicorn. But trust me, these Easy Oven Baked Turkey Cheese Sliders are that unicorn. My family absolutely devoured these the first time I made them. Even my teenager, who usually approaches dinner with the enthusiasm of a sloth on a Monday morning, went back for seconds (and thirds!). The combination of warm, soft Hawaiian rolls, savory deli turkey, melty cheese, and that hint of buttery, garlicky goodness is simply irresistible. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight meal, a fun appetizer for game day, or even a potluck dish that’s sure to disappear in minutes. Seriously, if you’re looking for a recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort, look no further. These sliders are about to become your new go-to.

Ingredients

This recipe shines in its simplicity, requiring just a handful of readily available ingredients. The beauty lies in how these humble components come together to create something truly special. Here’s what you’ll need to gather to whip up a batch of these delectable sliders:

• 12 Hawaiian Sweet Rolls: These are the foundation of our sliders and contribute that signature soft, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory fillings. Brands like King’s Hawaiian are popular choices and readily available in most grocery stores. Look for the packs of connected rolls for easy slider assembly.
• 1 pound Deli Turkey Breast: Opt for thinly sliced deli turkey breast. You can use your favorite variety – honey roasted, smoked, or even plain turkey breast all work wonderfully. The key is to have it thinly sliced so it layers nicely and heats through quickly in the oven.
• 8 ounces Cheese: Cheese is where you can really customize these sliders! Shredded cheese is easiest to work with and melts evenly. Consider these options:
  • Monterey Jack: A classic choice for sliders, Monterey Jack melts beautifully and offers a mild, buttery flavor that complements the turkey and rolls.
  • Cheddar: Sharp cheddar adds a bolder, more pronounced cheesy flavor. Mild cheddar is also a great option for a less intense taste.
  • Provolone: For a creamy, slightly tangy melt, provolone is an excellent choice. It’s particularly good if you like a bit of stretch in your cheese.
  • Pepper Jack: If you want to add a little kick, pepper jack cheese will bring a subtle heat and extra flavor dimension.
  • Mozzarella: While mozzarella is a great melting cheese, it’s milder in flavor. You can combine it with another cheese for a more robust taste.
  • Swiss: Swiss cheese adds a nutty and slightly sweet flavor profile that pairs well with turkey.
  You can also use a blend of cheeses to create a more complex flavor profile. For example, a mix of Monterey Jack and cheddar or provolone and mozzarella would be delicious.
• ½ cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter, Melted: Melted butter is crucial for brushing over the rolls before baking. It adds richness, flavor, and helps the sliders get that beautiful golden-brown crust. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
• 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a tangy and slightly spicy kick to the butter mixture, enhancing the overall flavor of the sliders. It’s not overpowering, but it provides a lovely depth of flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce: Worcestershire sauce is a secret ingredient that adds umami and complexity to the buttery topping. Just a tablespoon is enough to make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Minced Onion or Onion Powder: Dried minced onion or onion powder infuses the butter mixture with a subtle onion flavor, adding another layer of savory goodness. Dried minced onion will provide a slightly more pronounced onion taste.
• ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder: Garlic powder is essential for that classic buttery garlic flavor that makes these sliders so addictive.
• Optional Toppings (for after baking):
  • Poppy Seeds or Sesame Seeds: Sprinkling poppy seeds or sesame seeds over the buttered rolls before baking adds a visual appeal and a subtle nutty flavor and texture.
  • Fresh Parsley, Chopped: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness when sprinkled over the finished sliders.
  • Everything Bagel Seasoning: For an extra burst of flavor and texture, sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over the buttered rolls before baking.
  • Pickles, thinly sliced: Adding a few thin slices of dill pickles after baking provides a tangy crunch that cuts through the richness of the sliders.
  • Lettuce, shredded: Shredded lettuce adds a fresh, cool element to the sliders.
  • Tomato, thinly sliced: Thinly sliced tomatoes add a juicy and slightly acidic element.

Instructions

Making these oven-baked turkey cheese sliders is incredibly straightforward. The steps are simple, and the reward is a batch of warm, cheesy, and utterly satisfying sliders. Follow these easy instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that the oven is at the correct temperature when you place the sliders in, allowing for even cooking and melting of the cheese.
2. Prepare the Hawaiian rolls. Keep the rolls connected as a sheet. Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the entire sheet of Hawaiian rolls horizontally, creating a top and bottom half. Be gentle to avoid tearing the soft rolls. Place the bottom half of the rolls in a 9×13 inch baking dish. This baking dish size is ideal for holding a standard pack of Hawaiian rolls and allows for even baking. You can lightly grease the baking dish with cooking spray if desired, although it’s usually not necessary with Hawaiian rolls.
3. Layer the turkey and cheese. Evenly distribute the sliced deli turkey over the bottom half of the rolls in the baking dish. Make sure to cover the rolls completely for a satisfying slider. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the turkey. Ensure the cheese is distributed well so that every slider gets a good amount of cheesy goodness. Don’t be shy with the cheese!
4. Prepare the butter sauce. In a small microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, melt the butter. If microwaving, heat in 30-second intervals until fully melted. If using a saucepan, melt over low heat. Once melted, whisk in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, dried minced onion (or onion powder), and garlic powder. Stir until well combined. This butter sauce is the flavor bomb that elevates these sliders from good to amazing. Make sure everything is well incorporated for even flavor distribution.
5. Brush the butter sauce over the rolls. Carefully place the top half of the Hawaiian rolls over the cheese and turkey layer. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the melted butter sauce evenly over the top of the rolls. Make sure to get the sauce into all the nooks and crannies for maximum flavor and browning. If using poppy seeds, sesame seeds, or everything bagel seasoning, sprinkle them evenly over the buttered tops now. This is when the seeds will adhere to the butter and bake into the rolls.
6. Bake the sliders. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the tops of the rolls are golden brown. Keep an eye on the sliders towards the end of the baking time to prevent them from browning too quickly. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven. The cheese should be fully melted and gooey, and the rolls should be nicely browned on top.
7. Rest and serve. Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes them easier to cut. Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the sliders along the pre-cut lines of the Hawaiian rolls to separate them. Serve immediately while warm and cheesy. If desired, add optional toppings like sliced pickles, shredded lettuce, or tomato slices after baking.

Nutrition Facts (per Slider, approximate)

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. The following is an approximation based on using standard ingredients and dividing the recipe into 12 sliders.)

• Serving Size: 1 Slider
• Calories: Approximately 250-350 calories per slider
  • This range accounts for variations in cheese type, turkey fat content, and butter absorption.
• Macronutrients (approximate):
  • Protein: 15-20 grams
  • Fat: 12-18 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
• Other Nutrients (approximate):
  • Sodium: Varies depending on cheese and deli turkey used.
  • Fiber: Low

Important Considerations:

• These sliders are moderately high in calories and fat due to the cheese, butter, and rolls.
• Sodium content can be significant, especially depending on the deli turkey and cheese chosen. Opt for lower-sodium deli turkey and cheese if you are watching your sodium intake.
• To reduce calories and fat, you can use reduced-fat cheese, lean deli turkey, and slightly reduce the amount of butter sauce.
• These nutritional values are estimates. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time

These sliders are incredibly quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (This includes gathering ingredients, slicing rolls, layering turkey and cheese, and making the butter sauce.)
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes (Baking time in the oven)
• Total Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes from start to finish.

This quick preparation and cook time makes these sliders an ideal choice when you need a delicious and satisfying meal or appetizer in a hurry.

How to Serve

These oven-baked turkey cheese sliders are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways, making them suitable for different occasions. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a Main Course:
  • With a side salad: A fresh green salad, Caesar salad, or a simple vinaigrette salad provides a light and refreshing contrast to the rich sliders.
  • Alongside French fries or potato wedges: Classic comfort food pairings that are always a hit. Consider different fry seasonings or dipping sauces.
  • With sweet potato fries or tater tots: Fun and flavorful alternatives to regular fries.
  • Served with soup: A cup of tomato soup, creamy potato soup, or even a hearty chili complements the sliders nicely, especially on a cooler day.
  • Paired with coleslaw or potato salad: Classic picnic and BBQ sides that work well with sliders.
  • Alongside roasted vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts add a healthy and flavorful side dish.
• As Appetizers or Party Food:
  • Perfect for game day: Sliders are ideal for watching sports events, easy to eat while cheering on your team.
  • Great for potlucks and gatherings: They travel well and are always a crowd-pleaser.
  • Serve on a platter with various dipping sauces: Offer ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard for dipping options.
  • Arrange them on a tiered serving stand for an elegant presentation: Elevates the sliders for a more sophisticated appetizer display.
  • Cut them into smaller portions for mini sliders: For parties or appetizers, you can cut each slider in half to create mini sliders, making them even easier to eat and serve more people.
• For a Quick Lunch or Snack:
  • Enjoy them as is for a satisfying and quick lunch.
  • Pack them in lunchboxes (allow to cool slightly before packing).
  • Serve with a side of fruit or yogurt for a balanced meal.
• Drink Pairings:
  • Soda or Iced Tea: Classic and refreshing pairings.
  • Lemonade or Fruit Punch: Kid-friendly options that complement the sliders.
  • Beer: Light lagers or pale ales pair well with the savory flavors.
  • Wine: A light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc can be nice adult pairings.

Additional Tips for Perfect Turkey Cheese Sliders

Want to take your oven-baked turkey cheese sliders to the next level? Here are five helpful tips to ensure slider success every time:

1. Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the sliders while they are in the oven. Overbaking can dry out the rolls and make the cheese tough. You want the cheese to be melted and gooey, and the rolls to be golden brown, but still soft. Start checking for doneness around the 15-minute mark.
2. Customize Your Cheese: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese or cheese blends to find your favorite combination. As mentioned earlier, Monterey Jack, cheddar, provolone, pepper jack, and Swiss are all excellent choices. You can also use a pre-shredded cheese blend specifically designed for melting.
3. Make Ahead for Easy Entertaining: You can assemble the sliders ahead of time, up to a few hours before baking. Prepare the rolls, layer the turkey and cheese, and brush with the butter sauce. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. When ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if the sliders are cold from the refrigerator. This make-ahead tip is a lifesaver for parties and gatherings.
4. Toast the Rolls (Optional): For extra texture, you can lightly toast the bottom halves of the Hawaiian rolls in the oven before adding the turkey and cheese. This will give them a slightly crispier base. Toast at 350°F for 3-5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
5. Add Extra Flavor Boosters: Get creative with extra flavor additions!
   • Caramelized Onions: Spread a layer of caramelized onions over the turkey before adding the cheese for a sweet and savory depth.
   • Roasted Red Peppers: Roasted red peppers add a smoky sweetness. Layer them with the turkey and cheese.
   • Jalapeños: For a spicy kick, add thinly sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños.
   • Bacon: Crispy cooked bacon crumbles are always a welcome addition to sliders. Sprinkle them over the cheese before baking.
   • Spinach or Arugula: Add a layer of fresh spinach or arugula for a touch of freshness and greens.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Got questions about making these easy oven-baked turkey cheese sliders? Here are answers to some common queries:

Q1: Can I use different types of rolls instead of Hawaiian sweet rolls?

A: While Hawaiian sweet rolls are highly recommended for their soft texture and slightly sweet flavor, you can use other types of small rolls if you prefer. Potato rolls, brioche rolls, or even slider buns will work. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be slightly different. Adjust baking time if using denser rolls.

Q2: Can I use different meats besides deli turkey?

A: Absolutely! These sliders are very versatile. You can substitute deli ham, roast beef, or even shredded cooked chicken or pulled pork for the turkey. Consider using leftover cooked meats to make these sliders even easier.

Q3: Can I make these sliders vegetarian?

A: Yes, you can easily make these sliders vegetarian. Substitute the deli turkey with vegetarian deli slices, roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, or even marinated and grilled portobello mushrooms. Ensure your vegetarian fillings are cooked or pre-cooked before assembling the sliders.

Q4: How do I store leftover sliders?

A: Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can wrap them in foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave them in short intervals, being careful not to overheat and dry them out. They are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can still be tasty.

Q5: Can I freeze these sliders?

A: While you can freeze cooked sliders, the texture of the rolls may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. If you want to freeze them, allow the baked sliders to cool completely. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave carefully. It’s generally recommended to assemble and bake them fresh for the best quality, but freezing is an option for longer storage.