Name: Mouthwatering Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Cooked Turkey (shredded or sliced); 8 oz Swiss/Provolone Cheese (slices); 12 sliders Slider Rolls/Mini Brioche Buns; 1 cup Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce; 1/2 cup Mayonnaise; 2 tbl Dijon Mustard; 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tsp Onion Powder; 4 tbl Melted Butter; 1 tbl Poppy Seeds (optional)

Thanksgiving may be over, but that doesn’t mean your culinary creativity has to end! I recently discovered a delicious way to elevate leftover turkey with these Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders. With just a few simple ingredients, you can turn holiday remnants into a delightful snack that’s perfect for any gathering. The warm blend of tender turkey, creamy cheese, and sweet-tart cranberry sauce bakes to golden perfection, making these sliders an instant crowd-pleaser. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they also ensure that no bit of that precious holiday feast goes to waste. Curious to know how you can whip these up in no time? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Turkey Cranberry Sliders a Hit?

Easy to Make: Even if you’re not a culinary expert, these sliders require minimal effort and time, making them an ideal post-holiday treat.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory turkey, creamy cheese, and tangy cranberry sauce creates a delightful burst of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

No Leftover Left Behind: Transform your holiday leftovers into something spectacular, ensuring every bit of turkey is savored rather than wasted.

Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, these sliders are sure to impress your guests, just like my Blackened Chicken Sliders do!

Versatile Options: Feel free to switch things up by using chicken or ham, or adding fresh veggies for a unique twist that suits your preferences.

With these sliders, your post-Thanksgiving meals will never feel boring again!

Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders Ingredients

For the Sliders

Cooked Turkey – A great source of protein, ensuring a delicious Thanksgiving flavor; you can shred or slice it for your sliders.
Swiss/Provolone Cheese – This melty addition binds flavors together and adds a creamy texture.
Slider Rolls/Mini Brioche Buns – The perfect soft yet sturdy base to hold all the tasty fillings.
Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce – Provides a sweet and tart note that complements the turkey wonderfully.
Mayonnaise – Adds a creamy richness, helping to keep your sliders moist.
Dijon Mustard – Its zesty kick brings an exciting flavor boost to each bite.

For Flavor Enhancement

Garlic Powder – Infuses a warm, aromatic essence that enhances the overall flavor.
Onion Powder – Adds depth and mellows the savory notes for a rounded taste.
Melted Butter – Elevates the sliders, helping them turn golden brown and delicious!
Poppy Seeds (optional) – Sprinkle on top for added crunch and visual appeal.

With this simple list of ingredients for your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders, you’re just moments away from indulging in a scrumptious treat that celebrates the flavors of the holiday!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is essential for ensuring that your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders bake evenly and reach that delightful golden-brown color. As the oven warms, you can prepare the other components of your sliders, which will save time as you assemble them.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
Carefully slice the slider rolls in half horizontally, ensuring a clean cut. Place the bottom halves in a greased baking dish, making sure they fit snugly. This baking dish will provide a cozy home for your sliders as they bake, keeping them warm and delicious. Visualize the base being ready to hold all those tasty ingredients!

Step 3: Spread the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard to create a creamy spread. Take a generous amount of this mixture and spread it evenly across the cut sides of the bottom rolls. This layer will introduce a wonderful tangy flavor to your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Step 4: Layer the Turkey
Now it’s time to layer the shredded or sliced cooked turkey over the bottom rolls, distributing it evenly to ensure each slider gets its fair share. The turkey will soak up all the goodness from the other ingredients while providing the heartiness of the dish. Imagine the comforting aroma already beginning to waft through the kitchen!

Step 5: Add Cranberry Sauce
Spoon the sweet-tart whole berry cranberry sauce over the turkey layer, making sure it’s evenly spread to add that luscious contrast. This crucial element brings a burst of flavor, perfectly contrasting the savoriness of the turkey. You want to see that vibrant red layer sitting beautifully on the turkey, awaiting the next addition.

Step 6: Top with Cheese
Layer slices of Swiss or provolone cheese on top of the cranberry sauce, ensuring full coverage. As the sliders bake, this cheese will melt blissfully, creating a creamy, gooey texture that binds everything together perfectly. You can almost envision the cheese bubbling up beautifully as it warms, enticing everyone nearby!

Step 7: Create the Topping Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional poppy seeds. Take a pastry brush and generously brush this mixture over the tops of the slider rolls. This step will give your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders a savory, buttery flavor and enhance the golden color during baking.

Step 8: Bake the Sliders
Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven for 15 minutes to keep moisture in. After this, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes. Keep an eye on the sliders; you want them to have a beautiful golden-brown color on top, indicating they’re perfectly baked and ready to serve.

Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool slightly before separating them. This will make it easier to pull them apart without compromising their delicious fillings. Serve the Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders warm, allowing everyone to savor this delightful blend of flavors!

Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders Variations

Feel free to explore these fun adaptations and make these sliders truly your own!

Chicken Substitute: Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of turkey for a quick swap that still delivers on flavor. A warm, comforting option for any meal!
Cheddar Cheese: Swap Swiss or provolone for sharp cheddar. It adds a robust flavor that pairs beautifully with the cranberry. Your taste buds will rejoice!
Avocado Addition: Incorporate fresh slices of avocado or spinach leaves for a creamy, healthful twist. It adds a delightful freshness and garnishes your sliders beautifully.
Spicy Touch: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick. Infusing some heat transforms the sliders into a zesty delight that’s sure to impress!
Sweet Apple Relish: Swap cranberry sauce for a sweet apple or pear chutney. This fruity twist gives a new texture and flavor that complements turkey wonderfully.
Whole Wheat Rolls: Use whole wheat or gluten-free slider rolls for a heartier or dietary-friendly option. It’s a simple substitution that makes a meaningful difference!
Brie Cheese Upgrade: For an upscale touch, try using creamy brie instead of your usual cheese. It melts beautifully for a richer texture that feels indulgent!

Hoping to satisfy your craving for sliders? These customizable options will keep your taste buds excited, just like when I tweak my delicious Blackened Chicken Sliders recipe!

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Preheat Properly: Ensure your oven reaches 350°F before baking; this promotes even cooking and perfect crispness on top.
Moisture Matters: Cover sliders with foil for the first half of the baking time to keep them fluffy and moist; then remove to crisp the tops.
Flavor Balance: Be mindful of how much cranberry sauce you add; too much can overpower the turkey. A thin, even layer is ideal.
Cheese Choice: Consider using a mix of cheeses for depth; a combination of Swiss and cheddar can elevate the flavor profile perfectly.
Assembly Ahead: Feel free to assemble the Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake!

With these tips, you’re sure to make your sliders celebrated by all!

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can assemble the sliders up to 24 hours in advance, placing them in the baking dish and covering them tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. This helps to maintain freshness and prevent the sliders from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for 15 minutes, then uncover for 5 more minutes until golden brown. You’ll have delicious sliders that taste just as fresh and flavorful as if they were made on the spot, making meal prep a breeze!

How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Fridge: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to wrap them tightly to maintain moisture without drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap assembled but unbaked sliders in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. This is a great way to save your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders for future enjoyment!

Reheating: To reheat frozen sliders, bake from frozen at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through. For refrigerated sliders, heat them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispy tops.

Make-Ahead Tip: If desired, you can assemble the sliders a day in advance and refrigerate until baking. This way, you can save time on busy days while still enjoying these delightful treats!

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Warm up your post-holiday gatherings with these delightful sandwiches, perfect for igniting a cozy meal.

Sweet Potato Fries: Their crispy exterior and soft interior pair beautifully with the sliders’ rich flavors, creating a delightful crunch.
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing side that adds a crisp contrast; toss in seasonal veggies for a splash of color and taste.
Pumpkin Soup: The creamy texture and warm spices of pumpkin soup complement the savory turkey while embracing the essence of fall.
Coleslaw: Its tanginess cuts through the richness of the sliders, adding a crunchy and refreshing element to each bite.
Cranberry Sparkler: A fun drink pairing, mix cranberry juice with sparkling water for a bubbly refreshment that echoes the slider flavors.
Apple Crisp: A warm dessert with a hint of cinnamon, its sweet and tangy profile mirrors the cranberry sauce, providing a satisfying ending to the meal.

Enjoy crafting the perfect meal alongside your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders!

Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best cooked turkey for my sliders?
Absolutely! When choosing cooked turkey for your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders, look for pieces that are moist and tender, avoiding any that appear dry or have dark spots. If you have leftover turkey from your holiday meal, that’s fantastic! Just shred or slice it to your desired thickness.

What is the best way to store leftover sliders?
For sure! Store any leftover Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover them tightly to prevent drying out; if they feel a bit stale after storage, a quick reheat in the oven will bring back their original moisture and crispiness!

Can I freeze these sliders? If so, how?
Very! To freeze your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders, assemble them but do not bake. Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and place them in the freezer for up to 2 months. This protects them from freezer burn and keeps them tasting fresh!

How do I reheat frozen sliders correctly?
You bet! To reheat your frozen sliders, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sliders on a baking sheet and cover with foil to retain moisture. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating refrigerated sliders, simply warm them for 10-15 minutes uncovered until the tops are crisp and warm.

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders a day in advance. Just store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes it super convenient for busy days when you want to have something delicious ready without a lot of last-minute effort!

Are there any dietary considerations for these sliders?
Very! If catering to guests with allergies, ensure that none have sensitivities to turkey, dairy (from the cheese), or any other ingredients. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute slider rolls with gluten-free buns. Always check ingredient labels when serving to others!