If you’re looking for the ultimate crowd-pleaser, these Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders are everything you crave in one warm, gooey, flavor-packed bite. Sweet, pillowy rolls cradle layers of savory turkey and melty cheese, all slathered in creamy sauces and drizzled with a buttery, poppy seed topping. Whether you’re hosting game night, a busy weeknight dinner, or a party with friends, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into magic with minimal effort and maximum joy. There’s a reason Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders always disappear first from the table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key for making these Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders irresistible. Each simple component contributes outstanding flavor, oozy texture, or that signature golden color that makes these sliders so memorable.
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls: Their signature sweetness and cloud-like texture are the perfect base for these sliders.
- 1 pound sliced deli turkey breast: Choose high-quality turkey for juicy, flavorful layers that pair well with the cheese.
- 12 slices Swiss cheese or provolone: Swiss is classic, but provolone or even cheddar work beautifully for extra meltiness.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: A light swipe of mayo adds moisture and rich flavor to every bite.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: For a gentle kick and savory tang that balances the sweetness of the rolls.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: This forms the luscious base of the topping—don’t skimp!
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a complex, umami depth to the buttery finish.
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds: Brings classic slider texture and a hint of nutty crunch.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Subtle, aromatic onion flavor infuses every bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers a savory punch and mouthwatering aroma.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A sprinkle of greenery freshens up the finished sliders and makes them party-ready.
How to Make Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Rolls
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to make cleanup a breeze. Slice the Hawaiian sweet rolls in half horizontally, keeping the rolls connected so you’re working with one big top and one big bottom piece. This trick makes assembling and serving a snap!
Step 2: Layer on the Flavors
Place the bottom half of the rolls in your prepared baking dish. Spread mayonnaise generously over the cut side of these rolls—this not only adds flavor, but also keeps things gorgeously moist as they bake. Next, evenly layer the sliced turkey breast and then the cheese slices, overlapping for maximum coverage and meltiness.
Step 3: Top with Mustard-Slathered Rolls
Before you crown your sliders, spread Dijon mustard across the cut side of the top half of the rolls. The mustard gives every bite a tangy twist that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the bread and richness of the turkey and cheese. Place the tops of the rolls over the layered fillings to form your full batch of Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders.
Step 4: Make the Buttery Topping
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, onion powder, and garlic powder. This magical mixture is brushed over the sliders, ensuring a golden, flavor-packed finish with every bite. Be generous—the more topping, the better!
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Gooey
Cover your dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. This traps steam and melts the cheese thoroughly. Then, remove the foil and bake another 5 to 7 minutes, just until the tops turn beautifully golden and the cheese is bubbling. Let the sliders cool for several minutes before slicing into individual portions. If you like, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders
Garnishes
A light dusting of chopped fresh parsley makes your Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders look instantly festive and inviting. You can also add a few toothpicks for easy serving at parties—plus, it just feels a bit more celebratory!
Side Dishes
Pair these sliders with a crisp green salad, classic potato chips, or crunchy coleslaw for a well-balanced meal. They also team up nicely with a bowl of fruit salad or oven-baked fries for a family-friendly spread that covers all the cravings.
Creative Ways to Present
Set these Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders out on a pretty platter, stack them in a rustic wooden tray, or pile them high on a cake stand for extra charm. For parties, consider making a double batch and serving with little dipping bowls of extra mustard or aioli for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra sliders (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep beautifully for up to three days and reheat well for quick lunches or snacks.
Freezing
You can freeze assembled, unbaked Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders for up to two months. Just wrap the baking dish tightly in foil and plastic wrap; when you’re ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and proceed as usual for a fuss-free meal in minutes.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the sliders in a 325°F oven, loosely covered with foil, until warmed through—this usually takes about 10-15 minutes. For a crisper top, remove the foil halfway through. The microwave also works in a pinch for single servings, though the rolls may be softer.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss is traditional for Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders, provolone, cheddar, or even Monterey Jack all add a unique spin. Use your favorite or what you have on hand.
Can I substitute the turkey for another deli meat?
Yes, these sliders are super versatile. Sliced ham, roast chicken, or even roast beef are delicious alternatives if you want to mix things up.
How do I keep the sliders from getting soggy?
Don’t skip toasting the sliders in the oven uncovered! This step ensures the tops set and the buttery mixture bakes into the bread without making it soggy.
Can I assemble the sliders ahead of time?
You sure can. Assemble everything (including the butter topping), cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. They’re perfect for prepping in advance of a busy event.
Are Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders good for kids?
Kids usually love these! They’re soft, cheesy, and easy to eat with little hands. If you’re serving picky eaters, you can skip the mustard or adjust the amount to taste.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to pull a bubbling batch of Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders out of your oven! They’re pure comfort on a plate, sure to bring big smiles and happy appetites to any table. Give them a try for your next gathering or casual dinner—you’ll be amazed how fast they disappear!
PrintHawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders Recipe
These Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders are perfect for parties, game days, or a quick weeknight dinner. Baked to perfection with a buttery topping, they are sure to be a hit!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
Hawaiian Turkey and Cheese Sliders:
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls, sliced in half horizontally
- 1 pound sliced deli turkey breast
- 12 slices Swiss cheese or provolone
Buttery Topping:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the rolls: Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottom half in the baking dish.
- Assemble the sliders: Spread mayonnaise on the bottom rolls, layer with turkey and cheese. Spread Dijon mustard on the top half of the rolls and place on top of the sandwiches.
- Make the buttery topping: Whisk together melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, onion powder, and garlic powder. Brush over the sliders.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake for 5-7 more minutes until golden and cheese is melted.
- Serve: Let cool slightly, garnish with parsley if desired, then slice and serve.
Notes
- You can substitute Swiss cheese with provolone or cheddar.
- To make ahead, assemble sliders and refrigerate covered for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Great for parties, game days, or an easy weeknight dinner.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 45mg