Irresistible Hawaiian Roll Turkey Sliders That Will Steal the Show

There’s something about the humble slider that brings back memories of family gatherings, porch swings, and the warm, comforting hum of a kitchen filled with love. Hawaiian Roll Turkey Sliders have become one of my favorite quick meals to whip up, especially when I’m craving that nostalgic feeling of shared food and stories. These little sandwiches carry more than just turkey and sauce; they carry the essence of those long afternoons I spent alongside Mama Lu, learning that food is as much about the hands that make it as the taste on your tongue.

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Roll Turkey Sliders

Growing up in a white farmhouse tucked deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains, food was our family’s way of saying “I love you.” These Hawaiian Roll Turkey Sliders capture that spirit perfectly — they’re soft, slightly sweet, and packed with savory goodness that’s both comforting and fresh. Each slider is a little bundle of flavor that’s easy to make, easy to share, and perfect for everything from casual weeknight dinners to weekend get-togethers.

What makes these sliders stand out is that balance: the soft, sweet rolls paired with tender turkey and a little something special in the sauce that brings everything together. They remind me of the times Mama Lu would pull out her skillet for cornbread, and even when I’m far from those mountains, these sliders bring that same warmth and connection right to my kitchen table.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Hawaiian Roll Turkey Sliders

• 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls (standard size, like King’s Hawaiian)
• 1 pound ground turkey (preferably lean but not too dry)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (for a creamier slider, or Greek yogurt as a lighter substitute)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard or yellow mustard (whichever you prefer)
• 1 tablespoon honey (to echo the sweetness of the rolls)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a little warmth)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese, cut into quarters
• 1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens (optional, for a fresh crunch)
• Butter, melted, for brushing tops of rolls
• Optional: pickles or sliced tomatoes for added tang and freshness

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 280 per slider
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 7g (mostly from the rolls and honey)
• Sodium: 450mg

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Steps to Create Your Hawaiian Roll Turkey Sliders

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking dish or sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix gently until everything is just combined — don’t overwork the meat or it can get tough.
3. Form the turkey mixture into small patties about the size of the Hawaiian rolls (roughly 2-3 inches in diameter). You should get about 12 patties.
4. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil or butter. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature around 165°F). Set aside on a plate.
5. While the patties cook, slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms intact as a whole piece.
6. In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey. Taste and adjust — this sauce is what brings the sliders together with a touch of sweetness and tang.
7. Place the bottom halves of the rolls into the prepared baking dish. Spread a thin layer of the sauce on each bottom roll.
8. Layer each bottom roll with a turkey patty, a quarter slice of cheddar cheese, and a handful of baby spinach or greens if you like the fresh crunch.
9. Spread a little more sauce on the top halves of the rolls, then place them over the assembled sliders.
10. Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter to give them a golden, shiny finish once baked.
11. Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the rolls are warmed through.
12. Remove from the oven and let the sliders rest for a few minutes before slicing between each roll to serve.

Tips for Making the Best Hawaiian Roll Turkey Sliders

One thing Mama Lu taught me is that cooking is as much about feel as it is about following directions. Here are a few tips from my kitchen to yours: Learn more: Ultimate Philly Cheesesteak Sliders Recipe That Will Blow Your Mind

• Don’t overmix your turkey: Keep it tender by mixing just until everything is combined. Overworking can lead to dense patties, and that’s not the warm, tender bite we want.
• Use fresh, soft rolls: Hawaiian rolls are the heart of these sliders. If you can’t find them, try soft brioche buns as a substitute — just keep that slight sweetness to balance the turkey’s savoriness.
• Customize your sauce: The mayo-mustard-honey combo works well, but feel free to add a splash of hot sauce or swap mustard types to match your taste.
• Don’t skip the butter on top: This little step gives the rolls a beautiful shine and a subtle crispness, just like the crust on Mama Lu’s cornbread skillet.
• Cook in a skillet first: I find that cooking the patties on the stove before assembling keeps them juicy and flavorful. Baking alone can dry them out.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Hawaiian Roll Turkey Sliders are versatile and fit right in at any gathering, whether it’s a casual family dinner or an impromptu porch party. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve them:

• Classic comfort side: Creamy coleslaw or a simple green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the sliders perfectly.
• Hearty sides: Sweet potato fries or baked potato chips bring that down-home feeling without too much fuss.
• Pickle platter: A side of assorted pickles or pickled vegetables adds a bright, sharp contrast that cuts through the richness.
• Warm drinks: On cooler evenings, pair with a big mug of spiced apple cider or sweet tea to complete that Southern-inspired comfort meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Just like the Sunday pot roasts Mama Lu would make, these sliders get even better when they’ve had a chance to rest. If you’re saving leftovers or prepping ahead, here’s how to keep that comfort intact:

• Storage: Wrap the assembled sliders tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To keep the rolls soft and melty, reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 10 minutes. You can also microwave them covered with a damp paper towel for about 30-45 seconds if you’re in a hurry.
• Freezing: For longer storage, wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap and freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for Hawaiian Roll Turkey Sliders?

The main ingredients for Hawaiian Roll Turkey Sliders include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make Hawaiian Roll Turkey Sliders?

The total time to make Hawaiian Roll Turkey Sliders includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make Hawaiian Roll Turkey Sliders ahead of time?

Yes, Hawaiian Roll Turkey Sliders can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with Hawaiian Roll Turkey Sliders?

Hawaiian Roll Turkey Sliders pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is Hawaiian Roll Turkey Sliders suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, Hawaiian Roll Turkey Sliders may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Roll Turkey Sliders are more than just mini sandwiches — they are a way to bring a little piece of my mountain home into your kitchen. I think Mama Lu would smile knowing that these sliders carry the same spirit as her skillet cornbread and Sunday pot roasts: food that invites you to sit down, share stories, and feel loved. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, these sliders are a simple reminder that the best meals don’t have to be complicated — they just need a pinch of soul.