If you are looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that is as comforting as it is delicious, you have to try the Turkey Sliders with Hawaiian Sweet Rolls and Muenster Cheese Recipe. These delightful mini sandwiches marry the light sweetness of Hawaiian rolls with savory deli turkey and melt-in-your-mouth Muenster cheese, all bathed in a buttery, flavorful glaze that guarantees smiles at any table. Whether for a casual family gathering, game day, or an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels extra special and downright irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the right balance of flavors and textures is the secret to these sliders’ success, and the ingredients reflect that perfectly. Each one is straightforward but essential, contributing to a harmonious bite that’s rich, sweet, and savory all at once.
- 12 count Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls: Their natural sweetness and soft texture create the perfect vessel for the sliders.
- 12 slices Muenster cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and adds a creamy, mild flavor that pairs wonderfully with turkey.
- 1 pound deli turkey: Thinly sliced and savory, the turkey provides hearty protein and a delicious meaty base.
- 1/2 cup mayo: Adds creaminess and moisture, helping the rolls stay soft and flavorful.
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter: Melted and infused with spices, butter brings richness and helps create a golden, crispy top.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard: Offers a subtle tang that cuts through the richness of butter and cheese.
- Poppy seeds: A classic touch on sandwich rolls that adds visual appeal and a slight crunch.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried minced onion: Deepens the flavor profile with a mild onion aroma and taste.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Supports the savory notes with a gentle garlic kick.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Elevates umami flavors for a richer overall taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Basic seasonings necessary to tie all flavors together.
How to Make Turkey Sliders with Hawaiian Sweet Rolls and Muenster Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan—lining it with parchment paper will make cleanup a breeze and prevent sticking. This setup ensures your sliders cook evenly while catching any buttery goodness that melts off during baking.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Mix in Flavor
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt your butter and let it cool just enough so it won’t cook the other ingredients when combined. Whisk in your Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, dried minced onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. This buttery blend not only bastes the rolls for a beautiful golden finish but also adds layers of flavor that make these sliders unforgettable.
Step 3: Slice and Mayo Your Rolls
Using a serrated bread knife, carefully slice the entire block of Hawaiian rolls horizontally in half. The key here is to keep the individual rolls connected so they stay together during baking and serving. Spread half of the mayo over the cut surface of both the top and bottom halves—this will keep the rolls moist, adding a velvety texture that complements the turkey perfectly.
Step 4: Layer Cheese and Turkey
Place the bottom half of your sweet rolls in the prepared pan. Layer six slices of Muenster cheese evenly across the rolls, followed by the deli turkey, then the remaining six cheese slices on top. Leaving the top bun off for now helps the cheese melt perfectly and infuses the turkey with warmth and flavor during baking.
Step 5: Bake the Sliders
Bake the assembled bottom half uncovered for 10 minutes to let the cheese melt and the flavors meld. Then, carefully remove the pan from the oven and set the top half of the rolls over the fillings. Generously pour and brush the spiced butter mixture over the top and sides of the rolls. Don’t worry if some butter pools at the bottom; it creates a scrumptious buttery crust. Cover the pan with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Finally, uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the top is perfectly golden and the cheese is deliciously melted.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, slice the sliders into individual servings and serve them hot. The inviting aroma, soft sweet bread, melty cheese, and savory turkey create a harmony of flavors and textures you’ll want to enjoy again and again.
How to Serve Turkey Sliders with Hawaiian Sweet Rolls and Muenster Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a fresh garnish elevates these sliders even further. Crisp pickle slices, fresh arugula, or a handful of shredded lettuce bring contrast and a hint of crunch. A little bright, thinly sliced red onion can add a zingy pop of tartness without overpowering the rich components.
Side Dishes
These sliders shine alongside classic sides like coleslaw or a vibrant potato salad for creamy, tangy balance. For a lighter touch, serve with a simple green salad or crunchy veggie sticks. And if you’re feeling indulgent, crispy sweet potato fries or oven-baked chips are always a hit alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, present the sliders on a large wooden board garnished with fresh herbs and small bowls of mustards or dipping sauces. You can also stack them tower-style on serving platters to highlight their sweet golden tops and layers of melted cheese, making for an irresistible centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place the sliders in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep well for up to three days, maintaining their delicious flavor and moisture when properly covered.
Freezing
You can freeze these sliders by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect from freezer burn. Stored this way, they remain tasty for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat your sliders in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. This will refresh the melted cheese and warm the turkey without sacrificing softness or flavor. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the rolls soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Muenster cheese melts wonderfully and complements the sweet rolls nicely, you can also swap in cheddar, Swiss, or provolone. Just choose cheeses that melt well for the best gooey texture.
Is it necessary to use Hawaiian sweet rolls?
Hawaiian sweet rolls are key to this recipe’s signature flavor and softness, but if you can’t find them, any soft, slightly sweet dinner roll works as a substitute. The sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory turkey and cheese.
Can I add vegetables or extras inside the sliders?
Yes! Fresh spinach, thin tomato slices, or even a slice of avocado can add freshness and texture. Just keep in mind that adding moisture-heavy vegetables may require adjusting cooking time or adding them after baking.
How do I prevent the sliders from getting soggy?
Spreading mayo on the rolls and using melted butter helps create a moisture barrier. Also, baking uncovered initially and then covered protects the texture. Serving immediately after baking ensures the best experience.
Can I prepare this dish for a large crowd?
Definitely. The recipe scales well, and using multiple baking pans if needed makes it a great option for parties or family gatherings. Keep an eye on the baking time if you increase the thickness of the slider layers.
Final Thoughts
This Turkey Sliders with Hawaiian Sweet Rolls and Muenster Cheese Recipe is such a joy to make and even more fun to eat. It captures that perfect balance between sweet and savory elements, all wrapped up in soft, pillowy rolls. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a cozy meal, these sliders promise satisfaction in every bite—so don’t wait to try them yourself and share the love with your loved ones!
Print
Turkey Sliders with Hawaiian Sweet Rolls and Muenster Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
Description
These Turkey Sliders are a deliciously satisfying party or family meal featuring tender deli turkey, melted Muenster cheese, and a flavorful buttery topping baked on soft Hawaiian sweet rolls. Perfectly layered and baked until golden and melty, these sliders combine easy prep with rich, savory flavors and a hint of sweet from the rolls, making them an ideal appetizer or main dish for gatherings.
Ingredients
Rolls and Cheese
- 12 count Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls
- 12 slices Muenster cheese
Meat
- 1 pound deli turkey
Mayo Spread
- 1/2 cup mayo
Butter Mixture
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1–1/2 teaspoons dried minced onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- Poppy seeds for topping
Instructions
- Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Line the pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Melt Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter and let it cool slightly. Whisk in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, dried minced onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until fully combined to create a flavorful butter mixture.
- Make Mayo Spread and Slice Rolls: Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the entire block of Hawaiian rolls horizontally in half, keeping the rolls connected. Spread 1/4 cup mayo evenly on each cut side of the rolls. Place the bottom half of the rolls in the prepared baking pan.
- Layer Ingredients: On top of the bottom half of the rolls, layer six slices of Muenster cheese evenly, then lay the deli turkey over the cheese, followed by the remaining six slices of cheese. Do not place the top half of the rolls yet.
- Bake Initial Layer: Bake the layered bottom rolls uncovered in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.
- Add Top Rolls and Butter Mixture: Remove the pan from the oven and carefully place the top half of the rolls over the melted cheese and turkey layer. Generously pour and brush the butter mixture over the top and sides of the rolls. Sprinkle poppy seeds on top to add texture and flavor. Some butter may pool at the bottom, making the base crispy and buttery.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the pan tightly with foil and bake for 20 minutes to warm through and soften the rolls.
- Final Bake: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve the sliders hot by cutting into individual portions. Enjoy the warm, melty, and flavorful sliders!
Notes
- For ease in slicing and serving, keep the rolls attached when cutting horizontally.
- Using parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Poppy seeds add a nice crunch and aesthetic appeal but can be omitted if preferred.
- This recipe is great for parties; sliders can be easily reheated in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes covered with foil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American