Turkey Hawaiian Roll Sliders: The Ultimate Easy & Tasty Recipe

Introduction

Nothing brings people together like a batch of warm, cheesy sliders fresh out of the oven! Whether it’s a quick lunch, a game night with friends, or a potluck gathering, Turkey Hawaiian Roll Sliders are always a crowd-pleaser.

I still remember the first time I made these sliders for a small get-together at home. I needed something quick, delicious, and easy to serve, and these turkey and cheese sliders turned out to be the perfect choice. The sweetness of Hawaiian rolls, combined with savory turkey and melted cheese, made them disappear from the tray in minutes!

The best part? This recipe requires minimal prep time and simple ingredients, making it an effortless dish for any occasion. If you’re looking for an easy make-ahead meal, these sliders can be assembled beforehand and baked just in time for serving.

So, whether you’re planning a party or just craving a comforting snack, these oven-baked turkey sliders will hit the spot. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to make this irresistible dish!

What You’ll Need

Making Turkey Hawaiian Roll Sliders is simple, and having the right tools on hand makes the process even smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Kitchen Tools

To prepare and bake these sliders perfectly, gather the following:

• Baking dish (9×13 inches) – Perfect size for holding a dozen sliders snugly together.
• Serrated knife – Ensures clean and even slicing of the Hawaiian rolls without crushing them.
• Mixing bowl – Used for preparing the flavorful butter sauce.
• Pastry brush – Helps spread the butter sauce evenly over the rolls for a golden, flavorful crust.
• Aluminum foil – Prevents the sliders from over-browning during baking.

Why These Tools Matter

Having the right equipment ensures your sliders turn out evenly cooked, flavorful, and easy to serve. The serrated knife is particularly important because Hawaiian rolls are soft, and a dull knife might flatten them. Using a pastry brush helps distribute the butter sauce, preventing dry spots and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

With these tools ready, let’s move on to the ingredients that make this recipe so delicious!

Ingredients

To make these Turkey Hawaiian Roll Sliders, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that come together for a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and cheesy goodness.

For the Sliders:

• 1 pack (12-count) of Hawaiian sweet rolls – Soft and slightly sweet, these rolls create the perfect base.
• 1 lb sliced turkey – You can use deli-style turkey for convenience or leftover roasted turkey for extra flavor.
• 6 slices of Swiss or Havarti cheese – Both melt beautifully and add a creamy, slightly nutty taste.

For the Butter Sauce:

• 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps achieve that golden, flavorful topping.
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – Provides a slight tang that enhances the overall taste.
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Deepens the umami flavor.
• 1 tsp dried minced onion – Brings a subtle sweetness and texture.
• 1 tsp poppy seeds – Adds a slight crunch and a visually appealing finish.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder – Infuses a mild, savory garlic taste without overpowering.

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

• Cheese Options: Not a fan of Swiss or Havarti? Try cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella for a different twist. If you’re out of cheese or need a dairy-free option, check out this list of 9 cream cheese substitutes for creative alternatives.
• Turkey Choices: Smoked turkey adds a deeper flavor, while oven-roasted turkey offers a classic taste.
• Butter Swap: For a lighter version, use olive oil instead of butter in the sauce.

Now that we have everything ready, let’s get started with the step-by-step instructions!

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

• Keeping the rolls intact, use a serrated knife to slice them horizontally into two layers.
• Arrange the bottom halves of the rolls evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

• Evenly layer the sliced turkey over the bottom rolls.
• Place Swiss or Havarti cheese on top of the turkey.
• Carefully position the top half of the rolls over the fillings.

Step 4: Make the Butter Sauce

• In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp dried minced onion
  • 1 tsp poppy seeds
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Whisk until the ingredients are fully blended.

Step 5: Brush & Bake

• Using a pastry brush, spread the butter mixture evenly over the tops of the rolls.
• Loosely cover the dish with foil to keep the tops from browning too quickly.
• Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

• Let the sliders rest for 2 minutes, then use a knife or spatula to separate and serve.
• Enjoy warm for the best flavor and texture!

Tips & Hacks for the Best Turkey Sliders

Want to take your Turkey Hawaiian Roll Sliders to the next level? Here are some expert tips and tricks to make them even more delicious!

1. Want a Crispy Top? Try Broiling!

If you love a golden, slightly crispy top, switch your oven to broil mode for the last 2 minutes of baking. This creates a delicious toasted texture while keeping the inside soft and cheesy.

2. Make-Ahead for Easy Entertaining

Hosting a party or preparing for a busy night? You can assemble the sliders ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When ready to bake, just pop them in the oven—no last-minute prep needed!

3. Add Extra Crunch & Flavor

Want to add more texture? Try these flavorful add-ons:

• Fried onions – Brings a crispy, slightly sweet flavor.
• Sliced pickles – Gives a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the rolls.

4. Prevent Soggy Bottoms

Nobody likes a soggy sandwich! To keep your sliders crisp:

• Pat dry deli turkey before layering to remove excess moisture.
• Place cheese directly on the rolls before adding turkey—this acts as a barrier to prevent sogginess.

5. Make It Your Own!

These sliders are versatile! Here are some fun variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha mayo.
• Garlic Butter Lovers: Double the garlic powder for extra flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Use lettuce wraps instead of Hawaiian rolls.

With these hacks, your sliders will turn out perfectly melty, flavorful, and irresistible every time!

Nutrition Score

Wondering how Turkey Hawaiian Roll Sliders fit into your daily nutrition? Here’s what each serving includes:

How Do These Compare to Other Sliders?

If you’re looking for a lighter alternative to traditional sliders, turkey sliders are a great choice! Here’s how they compare:

• Beef Sliders: Usually higher in fat and calories (~280-300 kcal per slider).
• Chicken Sliders: Slightly lower in fat but can sometimes be drier than turkey.
• Veggie Sliders: A great plant-based option, but they often lack the protein content of turkey sliders.

How to Make These Sliders Even Healthier

• Choose whole wheat rolls instead of sweet Hawaiian rolls for more fiber.
• Use reduced-fat cheese to cut back on calories and fat.
• Swap butter for olive oil in the sauce for a lighter option.

These small tweaks can make a big difference while keeping your sliders just as delicious!

Serving & Storage

How to Serve Turkey Hawaiian Roll Sliders

These warm, cheesy sliders are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they’re also delicious at room temperature. Here are a few serving ideas:

• For Game Nights & Parties: Arrange the sliders on a platter with dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch.
• For a Quick Lunch: Pair with a light side salad, roasted veggies, or baked fries for a satisfying meal. A Caesar Pasta Salad is another excellent choice, adding a fresh, zesty contrast to the warm, cheesy
• For Meal Prep: Make them ahead and pack them for school lunches or work snacks.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have extra sliders (which is rare because they’re so good!), here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month.

Best Ways to Reheat

To keep the sliders soft and melty, use these reheating methods:

• Oven: Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes to warm them up without drying them out.
• Microwave: Heat for 30-45 seconds (cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture).
• Air Fryer: Heat at 320°F (160°C) for 3-5 minutes for a slightly crispy texture.

With these storage tips, you can enjoy delicious turkey sliders anytime without losing their flavor and texture!

Variations

One of the best things about Turkey Hawaiian Roll Sliders is their versatility. You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to try!

1. Spicy Version

If you love a little heat, spice up your sliders with these easy add-ons:

• Sriracha mayo – Spread a thin layer on the rolls before assembling.
• Sliced jalapeños – Add a few on top of the turkey for extra kick.
• Pepper jack cheese – Swap Swiss or Havarti for a spicy cheese alternative.

2. Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Option

Watching your carbs? Here’s how to enjoy this recipe while keeping it low-carb:

• Use lettuce wraps instead of Hawaiian rolls for a fresh, crunchy bite.
• Skip the butter sauce or use olive oil to reduce calories.
• Opt for full-fat cheese to increase healthy fats without the carbs.

3. Extra Cheesy Sliders

For those who can’t get enough cheese, try these variations:

• Double the cheese layers – Place cheese on both the top and bottom of the turkey.
• Mix cheeses – Try a blend of cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella for different flavors.
• Stuffed Sliders – Add a small cube of cheese inside each roll for an ooey-gooey center.

4. Turkey & Cranberry Holiday Sliders

Want a Thanksgiving-inspired version? Try this twist:

• Use leftover roasted turkey instead of deli turkey.
• Spread cranberry sauce on the bottom rolls for a sweet contrast.
• Add stuffing or arugula for extra holiday flavor.

These easy variations allow you to customize your turkey sliders to match any occasion or taste preference!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are good sides for turkey sliders?

Turkey Hawaiian Roll Sliders pair well with a variety of sides! Some great options include:

• Crispy sweet potato fries for a balance of sweet and savory.
• Coleslaw or a fresh garden salad for a light, refreshing contrast.
• Pickles or roasted vegetables to add crunch and tang.

2. Do sliders have to be served hot?

Not at all! While they taste best warm with melty cheese, they’re also delicious at room temperature. This makes them perfect for potlucks and meal prep.

3. How do you cut a pack of Hawaiian rolls?

The easiest way to slice Hawaiian rolls is:

• Keep the entire pack intact to prevent them from falling apart.
• Use a serrated knife to slice horizontally in one motion.
• Hold the top layer together while transferring the bottom to a baking dish.

4. How many calories are in a Turkey Hawaiian Roll Slider?

Each slider contains about 210 calories, but this can vary depending on the type of cheese and butter used.

• Want to reduce calories? Use low-fat cheese or swap butter for olive oil.

These FAQs cover everything you need to know to make the perfect batch of turkey sliders every time!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing dish, Turkey Hawaiian Roll Sliders are the perfect solution. These cheesy, buttery, and slightly sweet sliders are great for everything from casual lunches to game day snacks and potluck gatherings.

What makes them truly special is their simple preparation and endless variations. Whether you swap in your favorite cheese, add a little spice, or experiment with different toppings, these sliders are easily customizable to fit your taste.

Plus, they’re make-ahead friendly and reheat beautifully, making them a fantastic option for meal prep or parties. Once you try these baked turkey sliders, they’ll quickly become a household favorite!

So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy a batch of these irresistible Turkey Hawaiian Roll Sliders today!