If you’re on the hunt for that perfect crowd-pleasing snack or an easy family dinner, it’s hard to beat Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders. These melty, buttery sliders are layered high with savory turkey, gooey cheese, and the signature sweet Hawaiian rolls that make every bite irresistible. The tangy Dijon-mayo spread and flavorful butter glaze take it up another notch, adding depth and a hint of crunch on top. Whether you’re hosting a party, spicing up your weekday menu, or just want an updated twist on a classic, this recipe is guaranteed to turn a regular gathering into something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in these Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders plays an all-star role in creating that magical, sweet-and-savory balance. Best of all, you probably already have most of these simple staples at home. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why!
- Hawaiian sweet rolls (1 12-pack): The sweet, fluffy base that perfectly cradles all the fillings and soaks up the buttery glaze.
- Deli sliced turkey breast (¾ pound): Offers a juicy, savory layer that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the rolls.
- Swiss or provolone cheese (6–8 slices): Melts gorgeously and adds just the right amount of creamy, cheesy richness.
- Mayonnaise (¼ cup): Brings smoothness and keeps the sliders moist while baking.
- Dijon mustard (2 tablespoons): Delivers a tangy punch and helps cut through the richness.
- Unsalted butter, melted (4 tablespoons): Gives that golden, decadent finish to the tops of the rolls.
- Poppy seeds (1 tablespoon): Add texture and an irresistible speckled look on top.
- Minced onion (1 tablespoon): Pops a savory, aromatic sweetness into every bite.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Infuses subtle depth and extra flavor.
- Worcestershire sauce (½ teaspoon): Sneaks in umami and a hint of complexity you’ll crave.
How to Make Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Rolls
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s good and hot by the time you’re ready to bake. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to keep your sliders from sticking and make for easy serving later on. Slice your Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally (keeping them connected for easy assembly) and nestle the bottom halves into the dish. This will become your slider foundation!
Step 2: Mix and Spread the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. This creamy, tangy sauce is the secret weapon that keeps the sliders perfectly moist without letting them get soggy. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the mixture generously over the entire surface of the bottom rolls—you don’t want to miss a single bite.
Step 3: Layer the Turkey and Cheese
Now, it’s time for those savory layers! Arrange the turkey slices evenly across the sauced-up rolls, making sure every corner is covered. Next, drape the Swiss or provolone cheese slices over the turkey. Feel free to slightly overlap them for maximum cheesy coverage. Top with the other half of the rolls—your mini sandwiches are starting to take shape!
Step 4: Prepare and Brush the Butter Glaze
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, poppy seeds, minced onion, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. This flavorful melted butter mixture is what sets these Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders apart from all other party snacks. Brush the mixture liberally over the tops of the rolls, letting it drip down the sides for extra flavor.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes to let the cheese melt and everything heat through. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 5–7 minutes, just until the tops are golden brown and slightly crisp. The smell at this point is absolutely mouthwatering—it’s nearly impossible not to sneak one early!
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Let your Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders cool for just a couple of minutes, then use a sharp knife to slice them into individual servings. They’re best enjoyed warm, when the cheese is perfectly gooey and the tops are still crisp.
How to Serve Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and a wink of freshness that looks especially inviting on a party tray. For extra tang, offer small bowls of cranberry sauce or spicy mustard on the side—guests will love customizing their own sliders!
Side Dishes
Pair your Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders with crisp potato chips, a simple green salad, or creamy coleslaw for a satisfying meal. For something heartier, a bowl of tomato soup or a platter of pickled veggies makes a perfect match, adding a touch of acidity and extra crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile the sliders high on a rustic wooden board or a colorful platter if you’re hosting. For kid-friendly gatherings, try serving them as “slider skewers”—slide a toothpick through each one and add a pickle slice on top. You can also cut the rolls smaller for a bite-sized appetizer version that’ll quickly become the star of your spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftover Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders (don’t be surprised if they disappear fast), let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making for the perfect grab-and-go lunch.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the cooled sliders in a single layer on a baking sheet first, just until solid, then move them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This helps keep them from sticking together. Label with the date—they’ll be at their best within 1 to 2 months.
Reheating
To bring back that irresistible warmth and melty cheese, reheat sliders in a 325°F oven for about 10–15 minutes. If frozen, allow them to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Microwaving works in a pinch, but baking really revives that perfect texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of meat for these sliders?
Absolutely. While turkey is classic for Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders, ham, roast chicken, or even thinly sliced roast beef will work. Just be sure to keep the meat sliced thin for even heating and easy layering.
What’s the best way to keep the sliders from getting soggy?
Be careful not to overload with sauce and make sure your rolls are fresh (not stale or damp). The quick baking time and layering technique keep everything crisp outside while making sure the inside stays perfectly moist.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the sliders (except for the butter topping), cover tightly, and refrigerate up to a day in advance. When ready to bake, add the melted butter mixture on top and bake as directed for fresh, hot sliders in no time.
Are there any fun add-ins I can try?
Definitely—try sliding in a layer of cranberry sauce for a touch of sweetness, or tuck in some thinly sliced pickles or jalapeños for an extra zing. A sprinkle of fresh herbs between layers can also bring a new flavor twist to your Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders.
What’s the best way to cut the sliders for serving?
Use a serrated knife to gently saw through the sliders after baking to keep the layers neat and the rolls fluffy. If you like, pop a decorative toothpick in each one to make serving a breeze, especially for parties or potlucks.
Final Thoughts
It’s almost impossible not to fall in love with these Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders. They hit all the right notes—easy, fun, and wildly delicious. Next time you crave a comforting bite or need to wow a crowd, give this recipe a try and watch your guests light up with each flavorful, melty, totally irresistible slider!
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Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders are a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for parties or quick weeknight dinners. Layers of deli turkey and Swiss or provolone cheese are sandwiched between Hawaiian sweet rolls, brushed with a flavorful buttery mixture, and baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders:
- 12-pack Hawaiian sweet rolls, sliced in half horizontally
- ¾ pound deli sliced turkey breast
- 6–8 slices Swiss or provolone cheese
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon minced onion
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare rolls: Place the bottom half of the Hawaiian rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Mix mayonnaise and Dijon mustard, then spread over the rolls. Layer turkey slices and cheese over the rolls. Add the top half of the rolls.
- Prepare butter mixture: In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, poppy seeds, minced onion, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Brush over the tops of the rolls.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes until golden and cheese is melted.
- Serve: Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.
Notes
- These sliders are great for parties, game days, or easy weeknight dinners.
- You can prep them ahead and bake just before serving.
- Try adding cranberry sauce or pickles for a fun twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
