This crostini recipe combines sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy textures in every bite. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover turkey while creating something that feels fresh and special. The melted Swiss cheese pairs beautifully with tart cranberry sauce, and the crispy bread makes the perfect base for these delicious appetizers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Baguette or French bread
Cooked turkey slices or shredded turkey
Swiss cheese
Cranberry sauce
Butter or olive oil
Dijon mustard
Fresh rosemary or parsley
Salt
Black pepper
Directions
Slice the baguette into thin rounds and arrange them on a baking sheet.
Brush each slice lightly with butter or olive oil.
Toast the bread in the oven until lightly crisp.
Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard onto each toasted slice.
Top with turkey and a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
Add Swiss cheese on top of each crostini.
Bake again until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh rosemary or parsley before serving warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 18 to 24 crostini, serving 6 to 8 people as an appetizer.
Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 12 to 15 minutes Total time: About 25 minutes
Variations
Use brie cheese instead of Swiss for a creamier texture.
Add caramelized onions for extra sweetness and depth.
Swap turkey for roasted chicken.
Drizzle with hot honey for a sweet and spicy twist.
Use whole grain bread for a heartier flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover crostini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat in a 350°F oven for several minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as the bread may become soggy.
For best results, store the toasted bread separately from the toppings if preparing ahead.
FAQs
Can I make these crostini ahead of time?
Yes, you can toast the bread ahead and assemble before baking.
What type of turkey works best?
Roasted turkey breast or leftover holiday turkey both work well.
Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce?
Yes, canned or homemade cranberry sauce can be used.
Can I serve these cold?
They are best served warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
What bread is best for crostini?
Baguette or French bread works best because it becomes crisp and sturdy.
Can I use another cheese?
Yes, brie, provolone, gouda, or mozzarella are all good alternatives.
How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?
Toast the bread first and avoid adding too much cranberry sauce.
Can I freeze crostini?
The toasted bread can be frozen, but fully assembled crostini are best enjoyed fresh.
Are these good for holiday parties?
Yes, they are ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other festive gatherings.
Can I add greens or herbs?
Yes, arugula, thyme, rosemary, or parsley add great flavor and freshness.
Conclusion
Melted Swiss, Turkey, and Cranberry Crostini is a simple yet impressive appetizer filled with comforting holiday flavors. The combination of crispy bread, savory turkey, tart cranberry sauce, and melted Swiss cheese creates a delicious bite that guests will love. Perfect for parties, leftovers, or cozy gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Melted Swiss, Turkey, and Cranberry Crostini is a warm and delicious appetizer made with crispy toasted baguette slices, savory turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and gooey melted Swiss cheese. Perfect for holiday parties, leftover turkey recipes, and elegant entertaining.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:12–15 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:18 to 24 crostini
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baked
Cuisine:American
Ingredients
1 baguette or French bread, sliced into rounds
2 cups cooked turkey slices or shredded turkey
6 to 8 slices Swiss cheese, cut into smaller pieces
¾ cup cranberry sauce
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Fresh rosemary or parsley for garnish
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet.
Brush each slice lightly with butter or olive oil.
Bake for 5 to 7 minutes, or until lightly toasted and crisp.
Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on each toasted bread slice.
Top each slice with turkey and a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
Add Swiss cheese on top of each crostini.
Return to the oven and bake for 5 to 8 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh rosemary or parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Brie cheese can be substituted for Swiss for a creamier texture.Caramelized onions add extra sweetness and depth of flavor.Toasting the bread first helps prevent sogginess.Store toppings separately if making ahead for best texture.Drizzle with hot honey for a sweet and spicy variation.
