Southwest Turkey Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls – Easy and Cheesy

There’s something downright magical about sliders. They’re tiny, fun, and bursting with flavor in every single bite. And when you combine the sweetness of Hawaiian rolls with bold Southwest-inspired ingredients like taco-seasoned spread, green chiles, and melted pepper jack cheese, you get a game-changing recipe that’s guaranteed to be the highlight of any gathering. These Southwest Turkey Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls are everything you love about a good sandwich—melty, savory, creamy, and just a little spicy—wrapped up in one irresistible, handheld package.

I still remember the first time I made these for a family game night. We needed something quick, easy, and guaranteed to satisfy both picky eaters and spice-lovers. I pulled this together using what I had in the fridge—deli turkey, some leftover pepper jack cheese, and a can of green chiles from taco night. The moment they came out of the oven, the kitchen smelled incredible. We didn’t even make it to the living room—everyone just stood around the baking dish, pulling apart slider after slider until they were gone.

What really sets this recipe apart is the contrast of textures and flavors. The Hawaiian rolls offer a soft, pillowy base with just the right amount of sweetness to balance the mild heat of the chiles and the richness of the Southwest spread. That creamy sauce, made with mayo, sour cream, and taco seasoning, sinks into the rolls as they bake, creating a warm, melty, flavorful bite every time.

This is the kind of dish that looks like you spent a lot more time on it than you actually did. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual entertaining, or even meal prepping for lunches. Plus, it’s totally customizable based on what you have on hand—feel free to switch up the meat, cheese, or garnishes to match your family’s taste. Whether you’re feeding kids, hosting a get-together, or just craving a comforting bite, these sliders have you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Southwest Turkey Sliders Recipe

First and foremost, these sliders are all about big flavor with minimal effort. You’ll love how incredibly easy they are to make—from start to finish, you’re only looking at about 25 minutes total. That’s a major win on hectic evenings when you need something satisfying on the table without dirtying every dish in your kitchen.

Another reason to love this recipe? It’s totally crowd-pleasing. The blend of seasoned turkey, gooey pepper jack cheese, and the creamy Southwest spread tucked into soft, sweet rolls is just irresistible. Even picky eaters get hooked after the first bite. And for those who like things a little spicier, you can throw in some jalapeños or a bit more taco seasoning to dial up the heat without overpowering the dish.

These sliders are also incredibly versatile. You can serve them as a party appetizer, a main course alongside a salad or roasted veggies, or even as an on-the-go lunch option. They’re compact, portable, and reheatable, which makes them great for meal prep or packed lunches. Plus, you can play with the filling combinations based on what’s in your fridge—try roast chicken instead of turkey, or swap in mozzarella or cheddar if that’s what you’ve got.

Then there’s the texture. The contrast between the crisp, buttery tops of the rolls and the melty, cheesy interior is pure comfort food magic. Each bite has layers of creamy sauce, savory meat, spicy chiles, and cheesy goodness—all hugged by that signature Hawaiian roll sweetness.

Lastly, the ingredient list is short and sweet. You probably already have most of what you need on hand. And even if you don’t, everything is easy to find at any grocery store. This is the kind of recipe that doesn’t require a trip to a specialty market or a long list of fancy ingredients. It’s accessible, affordable, and adaptable.

Health Benefits of these Southwest Turkey Sliders

While these sliders are definitely a comfort food treat, they also pack in some wholesome ingredients that bring a few nutritional benefits to the table. For starters, turkey is a great lean protein source. It’s lower in fat than red meat and provides essential nutrients like B vitamins, selenium, and zinc. Using deli-sliced turkey makes the recipe quick and easy, but you can also opt for nitrate-free or organic options if you’re looking for a cleaner choice.

Pepper jack cheese, while rich and creamy, also brings a bit of calcium and protein to the mix. The spicy kick can also help satisfy cravings with smaller portions, which is a sneaky way to enjoy indulgent flavors without going overboard. Cheese also contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has been linked to various health benefits in moderation.

The diced green chiles in this recipe are mild, but they’re packed with vitamin C and antioxidants. Even in small amounts, they add flavor without a lot of calories. And let’s not forget the taco seasoning—it often contains spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and digestive-supporting properties.

The Southwest spread is a creamy blend of mayonnaise and sour cream, which adds richness. If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can easily substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream or use a lighter mayo variety. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s totally adaptable to your dietary needs.

You can also add some freshness with optional toppings like red onion, fresh cilantro, or even sliced tomatoes. These add nutrients, flavor, and a nice pop of color without much prep. And since the serving size is flexible, you can easily enjoy one or two sliders with a side salad or veggie-based dish for a more balanced meal.

In moderation, these sliders can definitely fit into a healthy lifestyle. They’re satisfying, portion-controlled, and made with real, simple ingredients. With a few smart swaps and sides, you can make this comfort food classic into a meal you feel good about serving to your family.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

This recipe comes together quickly, which is one of the best things about it. The total preparation and cook time is just about 25 minutes, including a few minutes of prep and a brief baking time in the oven.

Total Time:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Servings:

This recipe makes 12 sliders, which is perfect for feeding a small group. Depending on how you serve them—either as a main course or an appetizer—you can expect it to serve about 4 to 6 people. For a party, they’re great as finger food. For dinner, you might want to plan on two or three sliders per person, especially if you’re adding a few side dishes.

Nutritional Information (per slider, approx.):
  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 480mg

Of course, exact values will vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients you use. If you opt for lower-fat cheese or mayo, you can reduce the fat content. Similarly, switching to a reduced-sodium turkey or homemade taco seasoning will help control sodium levels. These sliders are flavorful and satisfying, which means you may not need as many to feel full—another win if you’re keeping an eye on your intake.

Ingredients List of these Southwest Turkey Sliders

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these Southwest Turkey Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls. Each ingredient plays a role in building layers of flavor and texture, so even though the list is short, it’s packed with punch.

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 (12-count) package Hawaiian sweet rolls: These soft, slightly sweet rolls are the perfect base for sliders. Their fluffy texture soaks up the spread and holds everything together beautifully.
  • ¾ to 1 pound deli sliced turkey: Turkey is the star of the show here—savory, lean, and mild enough to let the spices and cheese shine. You can go with smoked turkey or oven-roasted, depending on your preference.
  • 6 to 8 slices pepper jack cheese: This cheese brings a creamy melt and a little spicy bite. The heat is mild, making it family-friendly while still flavorful.
  • 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles, drained: These add just the right amount of tangy, peppery depth to the sliders without overpowering them. Be sure to drain them well to avoid soggy buns.
For the Southwest Spread:
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and richness to the spread. You can use light mayo for a healthier twist.
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream: This gives the spread a slightly tangy flavor that balances the richness of the mayo and cheese.
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning: This pre-blended mix of spices gives the sliders their distinctive Southwest flair. You can use store-bought or homemade.

For Brushing:

  • 2 tablespoons melted butter: Brushing this on the tops of the rolls before baking gives them a golden, crisp finish.

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal contrast to the rich sliders.
  • Sliced jalapeños: If you love heat, these will take it to the next level.
  • Red onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a bit of crunch and bite.

With these simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to slider perfection. Most of them are pantry staples or easy to grab on a quick grocery run, making this a go-to option for last-minute meals or planned gatherings alike.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions of these Southwest Turkey Sliders

Now that you’ve got everything you need, let’s walk through exactly how to make these Southwest Turkey Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls. The process is simple and straightforward, but we’re going to break it down step by step so you feel totally confident from start to finish.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Before you do anything else, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). You want it hot and ready to go so that once the sliders are assembled, they can go straight into the oven and bake evenly. Preheating also ensures the cheese melts perfectly and the tops get that golden, slightly crisp finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Southwest Spread
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and taco seasoning. Use a small whisk or a spoon to stir until it’s completely smooth and the seasoning is evenly distributed. This spread is the flavor bomb of the sliders—it seeps into the rolls as they bake and gives every bite that creamy, zesty Southwest vibe.

If you’re looking to boost the flavor even more, consider adding a tiny splash of lime juice or a pinch of smoked paprika. It’s totally optional, but it can give the spread a fun twist.

Step 3: Slice the Hawaiian Rolls
Without separating the rolls, carefully slice the entire block horizontally. This creates a “top half” and a “bottom half” slab. The goal is to keep all the rolls attached, kind of like a sandwich loaf, which makes assembly much easier and keeps the sliders from falling apart.

Use a serrated knife to cut through cleanly. Once you’ve sliced them, place the bottom slab directly into a 9×13-inch baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Spread the Sauce
Take the Southwest spread you prepared earlier and slather it evenly across the cut sides of both the top and bottom slabs. Be generous—this is where the flavor lives. Make sure the sauce covers every corner so you get some in each bite. Don’t worry if a little drips down the sides; that just means extra flavor as they bake.

Step 5: Assemble the Sliders
Now comes the layering. Start by placing the turkey slices evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Try to layer it in a way that gives a little height and texture—don’t just lay it flat like you’re making a sandwich. You want the meat to feel substantial in every bite.

Next, layer on the pepper jack cheese. Depending on the size of your slices, you may want to overlap a bit to make sure every slider gets cheesy goodness. Six to eight slices is usually perfect for full coverage.

After the cheese, sprinkle the drained diced green chiles evenly over the top. If you’re adding optional extras like sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, or red onions, now’s the time. These garnishes not only add flavor but also make the sliders look vibrant and fresh.

Step 6: Add the Top Rolls
Carefully place the top slab of rolls over the fillings, aligning them as best as you can with the bottom half. Press down gently to help hold everything together, but don’t squash them—you still want them to be nice and fluffy.

Step 7: Brush with Butter
Melt the butter in a small dish, then use a pastry brush to coat the tops of the rolls generously. This step is key for that irresistible golden finish. If you want a little extra flair, you can also sprinkle the tops with sesame seeds, crushed red pepper, or even a bit more taco seasoning.

Step 8: Cover and Bake
Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil. This helps keep the tops from browning too quickly while the insides get melty and hot. Place the covered dish into the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes.

Once the time’s up, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes. This final bake helps the tops get toasty and allows the cheese to bubble just slightly around the edges. Keep an eye on them during this part—you want golden brown, not burnt.

Step 9: Slice and Serve
Once the sliders are done baking, let them sit for a minute or two to cool slightly and set. Then, using a sharp knife, cut along the natural seams of the rolls to create individual sliders.

Serve them warm, and watch them disappear almost immediately. They’re best right out of the oven, but you can keep them warm by covering the dish loosely with foil if you’re waiting to serve.

Optional Step: Make Ahead
If you want to prep these ahead of time, assemble the sliders fully up to the butter-brushing step. Cover and refrigerate them for up to a day. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge, let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes, then bake as directed.

This step-by-step method guarantees ooey-gooey sliders with crisp tops and big flavor in every bite. And once you’ve made them once, you’ll see how easy it is to customize them for future meals and events.

Southwest Turkey Sliders

How to Serve these Southwest Turkey Sliders

There are so many fun and delicious ways to serve these Southwest Turkey Sliders, whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a cozy meal for two. Let’s look at some of the best ways to enjoy them:

Casual Family Dinner:
Pair these sliders with a simple green salad or some roasted veggies for a well-rounded, satisfying meal. They’re hearty enough to be the main course but light enough that you can enjoy them with lighter sides.

Game Day Appetizer:
Set these out on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing, and you’ve got a game-day MVP on your hands. Serve them alongside a tray of chips with guacamole and salsa, and maybe some mini tacos or nachos for a full spread.

School or Work Lunches:
Wrap leftovers in foil and pop them into lunchboxes. They reheat beautifully, or you can eat them cold if you’re in a rush. Either way, they’re miles better than a standard sandwich.

Brunch or Potluck Favorite:
Believe it or not, these sliders work great for brunch, too. Pair them with fruit salad or breakfast potatoes for a sweet-and-savory combo that guests will rave about.

With a Side of Soup:
For a cozy, comfort-food dinner, serve them with a bowl of tortilla soup or a creamy tomato soup. The combo of melty cheese and warm soup is always a winner.

Because they’re so versatile, these sliders are a go-to for nearly any occasion. You can serve them as-is, dressed up, or with a spread of fun sides and dips depending on the vibe you’re going for.

Pairing Suggestions

While these sliders are a star on their own, the right side dishes and drinks can take your meal to the next level. Here are some pairing suggestions to round out your table and make every bite even more satisfying.

Best Side Dishes:

  • Mexican Street Corn Salad: Also known as esquites, this creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy side complements the Southwest flavors of the sliders perfectly.
  • Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of the fries pairs beautifully with the kick from the pepper jack and taco seasoning. Plus, they add a satisfying crunch.
  • Black Bean and Corn Salsa: Serve this as a side or a topping for the sliders. It’s fresh, colorful, and super easy to throw together.
  • Simple Arugula or Romaine Salad: Dressed with lime vinaigrette or a light citrus dressing, this adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sliders.
  • Tortilla Chips with Guacamole or Queso: Perfect for game day or casual gatherings. Dips and sliders just go hand in hand.
Drink Pairings:
  • Sparkling Limeade or Citrus Punch: Something bubbly and citrusy really cuts through the richness and adds brightness to the meal.
  • Iced Tea (Sweet or Unsweetened): A classic, easy option that’s refreshing and family-friendly. You can even infuse it with mint or lemon for extra flavor.
  • Hibiscus or Tamarind Drink: These tangy, slightly sweet drinks work beautifully with the bold, Southwest-inspired flavors of the sliders.

Kid-Friendly Options:

  • Fruit Cups: A mix of pineapple, mango, and grapes balances the savory sliders with a little natural sweetness.
  • Mac and Cheese: A side of creamy mac is always a hit with younger eaters and keeps the meal familiar and comforting.
  • Mini Carrot or Celery Sticks with Ranch: Easy to prep and adds a crunchy, healthy side to the plate.

With these pairing suggestions, you can customize the meal based on the occasion, the crowd, or what you’re in the mood for. Whether you’re going casual or pulling out all the stops, these sliders can handle it.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about these Southwest Turkey Sliders is how well they hold up as leftovers. Whether you’ve made a double batch for meal prep or simply have a few sliders left from dinner, you’ll be happy to know they store and reheat beautifully.

Storing in the Refrigerator:
To keep the sliders fresh for later, allow them to cool completely before storing. Once cooled, transfer the sliders to an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil. You can also store them in the same baking dish you used—just cover it well with foil or plastic wrap. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

If you know you’ll be eating them the next day, you can even wrap individual sliders in parchment paper and place them in a zip-top bag. That way, they’re ready to grab-and-go for lunches or quick snacks.

Freezing Instructions:
Freezing these sliders is easy and makes for a great make-ahead meal. To freeze them, follow these steps:
  1. Let the baked sliders cool completely.
  2. Cut them into individual portions.
  3. Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container.
  4. Label with the date and contents. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

If you’re freezing them unbaked, assemble the sliders as instructed (without brushing butter or baking), then wrap tightly and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, brush with butter, and bake as directed.

Reheating Instructions:
To reheat from the fridge, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the sliders in a baking dish and cover loosely with foil. Heat for about 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the rolls are heated through. Removing the foil for the last few minutes will help re-crisp the tops.

For a quicker option, you can microwave a single slider for about 30–45 seconds, but note that this method will result in a softer roll rather than a crisp top. For best texture, the oven is your friend.

To reheat from frozen, allow the sliders to thaw in the fridge overnight if possible. Then bake at 325°F for 15–20 minutes, covered with foil for the first half of the time and uncovered for the remainder to crisp them up.

Proper storage and reheating ensure that you’ll enjoy every bite, even days after you first make them. Whether you’re planning meals ahead or savoring leftovers, this recipe stays delicious and comforting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is beginner-friendly, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the outcome of your sliders. Knowing what to watch for can make all the difference in getting that perfect melty, toasty bite.

1. Not Draining the Green Chiles Well:
Canned green chiles often come packed in a bit of liquid. If you don’t drain them thoroughly, that moisture can seep into the rolls, making the sliders soggy. Use a fine-mesh sieve or press gently with a spoon to get rid of excess liquid before adding them to the sliders.

2. Skipping the Butter Brushing Step:
It might be tempting to skip brushing the tops with melted butter, especially if you’re short on time. But that buttery top is what gives the rolls that beautiful golden sheen and slight crisp. Plus, it adds flavor and locks in moisture.

3. Overstuffing the Sliders:
More fillings aren’t always better. While it’s tempting to pile on the turkey and cheese, overstuffing can lead to uneven baking and make it hard for the sliders to hold together. Stick to moderate layers to keep everything balanced and easy to eat.

4. Not Covering While Baking:
If you bake the sliders uncovered the entire time, the tops may brown too quickly before the cheese has fully melted or the sliders have heated through. Start covered, then uncover during the last few minutes of baking to get that ideal texture.

5. Cutting the Rolls After Assembling:
Always cut the rolls horizontally into top and bottom slabs before assembling. Trying to slice through a stacked sandwich with meat and cheese in the middle will cause everything to slide around and make the process messy.

6. Not Letting Them Rest Before Cutting:
Once the sliders come out of the oven, it’s important to let them rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly and keeps everything from spilling out when you slice them.

Avoiding these common mistakes will ensure your sliders turn out every bit as delicious as they’re meant to be—gooey, flavorful, and perfectly toasted.

Pro Tips

To take your Southwest Turkey Sliders from good to absolutely crave-worthy, try incorporating these helpful tips and tricks. They’re easy to apply but make a noticeable difference in flavor, texture, and overall enjoyment.

1. Toast the Bottom Rolls Before Assembling (Optional but Game-Changing):
If you’re worried about soggy bottoms (especially from the sauce or green chiles), try lightly toasting the bottom slab of rolls in the oven for 3–4 minutes before adding your spread and fillings. This gives them a little barrier against the moisture and keeps them sturdy.

2. Use Freshly Grated Cheese for Better Melt:
While pre-sliced cheese is totally convenient and works well, freshly grated pepper jack cheese melts more smoothly and adds a gooier texture. If you have the time, try shredding your own for maximum melt factor.

3. Add a Thin Layer of Cheese Below the Meat:
For an extra-cheesy bite, place one slice of cheese on the bottom rolls before layering the turkey. This helps the bottom rolls soak up the cheese, making the sliders even more decadent.

4. Customize the Spice Level to Your Taste:
If you like things spicy, add extra taco seasoning to the spread, or layer in more jalapeños. If you prefer a milder slider, stick with the base recipe and use a milder cheese like Monterey Jack.

5. Bake on a Sheet Pan for Easy Cleanup:
If you don’t want to use a baking dish, line a sheet pan with parchment paper and assemble the sliders directly on top. This makes for super easy cleanup and gives the bottoms a little extra crispness.

6. Press Down Gently Before Baking:
After assembling the sliders, gently press down with your hands to help everything stick together. This helps the ingredients melt into each other and makes for cleaner cuts after baking.

7. Add a Sprinkle of Sesame Seeds or Seasoned Salt on Top:
For a visually appealing and flavorful finish, try sprinkling sesame seeds, seasoned salt, or even garlic powder on top of the buttered rolls before baking. It adds a professional touch with almost no extra effort.

These pro tips are all about maximizing flavor and minimizing issues. Use them to elevate your sliders to full-on crowd-pleasing status, whether you’re making them for the first time or the fiftieth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When it comes to making Southwest Turkey Sliders, there are always a few questions that pop up—especially if you’re making them for the first time or trying to tweak the recipe for your dietary needs. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to help you make the best sliders every time.

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely. These sliders are great for prepping ahead. You can fully assemble them up to the point of brushing with butter. Just cover the dish tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, brush with melted butter and follow the baking instructions. Letting them come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking helps them cook more evenly.

Can I use a different type of meat?
Definitely. While turkey is the go-to in this recipe for its mild flavor and lean profile, you can swap in other deli meats like chicken, roast beef, or even halal beef pastrami. Just be sure to keep the same general quantity so the sliders don’t get overfilled.

What can I use instead of pepper jack cheese?
If you’re not into spicy cheese or just want to try something different, Monterey Jack is a milder option with great melting properties. Mozzarella or cheddar also work well. For a smoky flavor, try smoked gouda or provolone. The key is using a cheese that melts nicely.

Can I make these sliders vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the turkey with grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. For added protein, try adding a few slices of baked tofu or even a layer of refried beans. Just keep in mind that veggies release moisture, so don’t overload the rolls.

How do I prevent the sliders from getting soggy?
There are a few tricks. First, drain the green chiles thoroughly. Second, don’t overdo the spread—just a light layer on each side will add flavor without soaking the bread. You can also lightly toast the bottom half of the rolls before assembling to create a moisture barrier.

Can I use homemade taco seasoning?
Yes! Homemade taco seasoning is a great way to control salt and spice levels. A simple mix might include chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, and salt. Start with 1 tablespoon, then taste the spread and adjust if needed.

What if I don’t have a pastry brush for the butter?
No worries. You can use a spoon to drizzle the melted butter over the top of the rolls, or even use a clean paper towel or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly. It might not be as precise, but it gets the job done.

Can I freeze these sliders after baking?
Yes, and they freeze really well. Just make sure to let them cool completely, wrap them tightly, and store in a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until heated through. They’ll taste just as delicious as the day you made them.

Are these sliders spicy?
Mildly, yes—but nothing too intense. The pepper jack and taco seasoning provide a light kick, but it’s not overwhelming. You can easily make them spicier with extra jalapeños or tone it down by using plain cheese and a lighter hand with the seasoning.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! These sliders are perfect for feeding a crowd. Just grab an extra package of Hawaiian rolls and double all the ingredients. Use a larger baking sheet or two baking dishes. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure everything heats through evenly.

These FAQs should help smooth out any last-minute worries and give you the confidence to experiment, adapt, and make the sliders your own.

Conclusion & Call to Action

These Southwest Turkey Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls are the kind of recipe that checks all the right boxes—easy, flavorful, comforting, and totally versatile. From the creamy taco-spiced spread to the melty pepper jack cheese and the slight kick from green chiles, every bite delivers something special. Add in the buttery, golden tops of those Hawaiian rolls, and you’ve got a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

What makes these sliders truly shine is their flexibility. You can serve them for dinner, lunch, or as a party appetizer. They’re great straight from the oven but just as satisfying reheated the next day. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, prepping ahead for a busy week, or simply looking for a fun way to use up deli meat and cheese, this recipe delivers.

It’s also incredibly beginner-friendly. Even if you’ve never made sliders before, the step-by-step process makes it super approachable. With just a few ingredients and some layering, you’ll have something warm and melty on the table in under 30 minutes.

And let’s not forget—you can customize them to suit your taste. Love spicy? Add jalapeños. Want something extra cheesy? Throw in another layer of cheese. Need a vegetarian version? Swap in grilled veggies and keep the delicious spread. This is the kind of recipe that evolves with you and whatever you have in your kitchen.

If you try these Southwest Turkey Sliders, I’d love to hear how they turned out for you. Did you add any fun extras? Did your family devour them as quickly as mine did the first time I made them? Leave a comment, snap a photo, or tag your sliders on social media—I’d be thrilled to see your creations.

So go ahead, preheat that oven, grab a pack of Hawaiian rolls, and let’s get cooking. Once you taste that first warm, cheesy bite, I promise you’ll want to make these sliders part of your regular rotation. Happy cooking!

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Southwest Turkey Sliders

Southwest Turkey Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls – Easy and Cheesy


  • Author: Julia Hart
  • Total Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 sliders 1x
  • Diet: Halal

Description

These Southwest Turkey Sliders are packed with flavor thanks to a creamy taco spread, melty pepper jack cheese, green chiles, and tender turkey—all layered inside sweet Hawaiian rolls and brushed with butter before baking to golden perfection. They’re easy, fast, and perfect for dinner, parties, or meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (12-count) package Hawaiian sweet rolls

  • ¾ to 1 lb deli sliced turkey

  • 68 slices pepper jack cheese

  • 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles, drained

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise

  • 2 tablespoons sour cream

  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)

  • Optional: fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or red onion for garnish


Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

  • In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, and taco seasoning to make the Southwest spread.

  • Slice Hawaiian rolls horizontally to separate the top and bottom slabs.

  • Place the bottom half in a baking dish and spread the Southwest sauce on both sides.

  • Layer turkey, pepper jack cheese, and green chiles over the bottom half.

  • Add optional garnishes like cilantro, jalapeños, or onions.

  • Place the top rolls over the filling and brush tops with melted butter.

  • Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.

  • Uncover and bake an additional 5–7 minutes until golden and melty.

  • Slice and serve warm.

Notes

  • Drain green chiles well to avoid soggy rolls.

  • Customize with your favorite meats or cheeses.

  • Great for meal prep—store or freeze leftovers.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southwest-Inspired

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