There’s nothing like the thrill of turning yesterday’s feast into today’s flavor sensation! With Thanksgiving meals behind us, I absolutely look forward to using those delightful leftovers, especially in these scrumptious Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders. They are not just quick and easy to whip up, but they also pack a crowd-pleasing punch that’s sure to impress family and friends at any gathering. The magic happens when juicy turkey meets gooey cheese and a sweet-tart cranberry sauce, all nestled in soft, buttery slider rolls. What’s even better? You can customize these sliders with whatever leftovers you have on hand—be it ham, rotisserie chicken, or even a melt-in-your-mouth vegetarian option. Curious to see how this delicious transformation comes together? Let’s dive into the recipe!

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Why are these sliders a game-changer?

Quick and Easy: This recipe is a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings after the holidays.

Customizable Goodness: Mix and match proteins like chicken or ham, or try a veggie option, ensuring everyone is satisfied.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These sliders are designed for sharing and perfect for gatherings, leaving guests coming back for seconds.

Mouthwatering Flavors: The combination of juicy turkey, gooey cheese, and zingy cranberry creates an unforgettable taste experience.

Texture Perfection: Soft rolls envelop gooey cheese, making each bite a comforting hug of flavor!

Explore more delightful leftover ideas like White Chocolate Cranberry treats to round out your festive menu!

Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders Ingredients

For the Sliders

• Cooked Turkey – Shredded or sliced; the perfect use for your leftover turkey. Consider swapping it for leftover ham or rotisserie chicken for variety.
• Swiss Cheese or Provolone – Halved slices; adds a creamy, melty texture. Mozzarella or cheddar can be fun substitutes for a different flavor punch.
• Slider Rolls or Mini Brioche Buns – These are the ideal base; ensure they are soft for the ultimate texture in every bite.
• Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce – Provides sweet and tangy notes; if cranberry isn’t on hand, apricot preserves or fig jam works beautifully as a substitute.

For the Sauce Mixture

• Mayonnaise – Adds moisture and creaminess; it’s essential for the sauce mix.
• Dijon Mustard – Introduces a sharp tanginess to enhance the flavor profile.

For the Topping

• Unsalted Butter – Use this to season the tops of the rolls; margarine can be swapped in if needed.
• Poppy Seeds – Optional, but they contribute a delightful crunch and flavor.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley – Also optional; it brightens up the dish and adds a fresh taste.

For Flavor Boost

• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – These seasoning staples infuse depth and richness; measure accurately for best results.

Dive into these Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders, where cherished holiday flavors come to life in each bite!

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that when you’re ready to bake your sliders, the oven is perfectly heated to create that golden, crispy top.

Step 2: Prepare Rolls
Carefully slice the slider rolls horizontally, keeping the top halves attached. Place them snugly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, creating a cozy bed for your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders.

Step 3: Mix Sauce
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Mix until smooth, then take this delicious sauce and spread it evenly over the cut side of the bottom rolls, ensuring each bite will be rich and creamy.

Step 4: Layer Ingredients
Evenly distribute the shredded or sliced turkey over the bottom rolls, creating a hearty layer. Follow this by dolloping cranberry sauce over the turkey, allowing the sweet-tart notes to complement the savory flavors. Finally, place the halved cheese slices on top, creating a gooey, melty dream.

Step 5: Top with Remaining Rolls
Gently position the top halves of the rolls over the cheese layer. Press down slightly to ensure that all the ingredients come together, setting the stage for your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders to bake beautifully.

Step 6: Make Butter Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine melted unsalted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, poppy seeds, and chopped fresh parsley. This herby, flavorful mixture will add a delectable finish. Brush it generously over the tops of the rolls, making each slider irresistibly aromatic.

Step 7: Bake Covered, Then Uncovered
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture, and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes. Watch closely as the cheese melts and the tops turn a beautiful golden brown.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once done, take the sliders out of the oven and let them cool for a brief moment. Use a knife to slice between the rolls, separating your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders. Serve them warm, and watch as your guests delight in these flavorful bites!

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Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders Customizations

There’s no limit to how you can elevate these sliders to fit your family’s taste—let your creativity shine!

Ham Swap: Substitute turkey with leftover ham for a sweet and savory combo. The richness of ham pairs beautifully with cranberry sauce.
Chicken Delight: Use rotisserie chicken for a quick alternative. Its tender meat creates a delightful, moist bite.
Vegetarian Option: For a meatless twist, replace turkey with sautéed spinach and mushrooms. Add a sprinkle of feta for an extra flavor kick!
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for a unique taste. Each cheese brings its own personality to the sliders.
Stuffing Layer: Layer in leftover stuffing for a comforting twist. It adds texture and a burst of flavor that embodies the essence of Thanksgiving.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to introduce a delightful heat. This will awaken your taste buds in every zesty bite.
Sweet Swap: Use apricot preserves or fig jam instead of cranberry sauce for a surprising sweetness that complements the savory elements beautifully.
Garlic Bread Crust: Mix crushed garlic into the butter topping for a garlicky bread twist! It enhances the aroma, making these sliders irresistible right from the oven.

Don’t forget to check out more delicious twist ideas like White Chocolate Cranberry treats or White Chocolate Cranberry cookies to round out your holiday menu!

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Assemble Ahead: Prepare sliders in advance by assembling them and storing in the fridge before baking for a fresh, flavorful meal.
Moisture Matters: Bake the sliders covered for most of the cooking time to retain moisture; this prevents dry and crumbly bites.
Watch the Time: Keep an eye on your sliders during the last minutes of baking; overcooking can lead to tough, dry cheese and rolls.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to swap turkey for ham or chicken in your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders; just ensure that the flavors complement each other.
Garnish for Freshness: Adding chopped parsley not only boosts flavor but also enhances the visual appeal of these sliders—always a plus at gatherings!

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the sliders up to 24 hours in advance—simply prepare them according to the recipe instructions but hold off on baking. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in a preheated oven (350°F/175°C) for 20-25 minutes, covered, then uncover for the last 5 minutes to achieve that golden-brown top. This way, you save time while ensuring your sliders are just as delicious and gooey as if freshly made!

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Dive into a festive experience by pairing your sliders with these delightful sides and drinks.

Crisp Green Salad: Fresh greens with a zesty vinaigrette complement the richness of the sliders beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast. The crunch of the vegetables will enhance each satisfying bite.
Sweet Potato Fries: These soft and sweet fries are a crowd-pleaser, providing a lovely caramelized flavor that harmonizes with the tangy cranberry sauce.
Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables introduces earthy flavors that balance the savory sliders. Their tenderness adds another layer of texture to your meal.
Apple Pie or Pumpkin Pie: End on a sweet note with classic desserts that evoke holiday nostalgia. The warmth and spices will create a comforting connection to the festive season.
Sparkling Cider: This bubbly drink brings a touch of celebration and lightness to the meal. The effervescence will make every bite feel like a special occasion.
Cheesy Broccoli Casserole: Rich and creamy, this cheesy side dish offers a cozy texture that complements the sliders superbly while providing another serving of veggies.
Homemade Coleslaw: Crunchy, tangy slaw brings a lively crunch to the table. Its freshness will effectively cut through the richness, creating a well-rounded plate.
Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy, herbed couscous infused with lemon zest makes for a delightful, aromatic side that pairs wonderfully with the sliders’ flavors.
Red Wine: A smooth red wine brings depth to the meal, enhancing the complex flavors of the turkey and cranberry while making the overall experience more elegant.

Storage Tips for Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Room Temperature: Enjoy your sliders fresh from the oven for optimal taste; they are best consumed warm right after baking.
Fridge: Store leftover Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain their moist texture.
Freezer: If you want to save some for later, wrap the assembled sliders tightly in plastic wrap and foil, storing in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore the gooey cheese and warm filling without drying them out.

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Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders Recipe FAQs

Can I use fresh turkey instead of leftover cooked turkey?
Absolutely! However, using fresh turkey will require additional cooking time. If you’re starting with raw turkey, roast it thoroughly first until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before shredding or slicing it for the sliders.

How should I store leftover Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders?
Leftover sliders can be stored tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to reheat them gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to keep them moist and delicious.

Can I freeze these sliders for later use?
Yes, you can freeze these sliders! Assemble them but don’t bake. Wrap the tightly put-together sliders in plastic wrap and then in foil to avoid freezer burn. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, let them thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake them as per the original recipe instructions.

What should I do if my sliders turn out dry?
If your sliders turn out dry, they might have been over-baked. Next time, try covering them with foil for most of the baking time and check for doneness a few minutes earlier. Adding a bit more sauce—mayonnaise and Dijon mix—during assembly can also help keep them moist.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you’re serving these sliders at a gathering, check with your guests for any allergies, particularly to dairy or gluten. You can easily make these sliders gluten-free by using gluten-free rolls and ensuring all other ingredients are free from gluten cross-contamination. When substituting proteins, always consider dietary preferences as well, whether vegetarian or non-meat eaters.

How can I customize these sliders further?
Mix and match your favorite ingredients! Feel free to swap turkey for leftover ham or chicken, or even create a veggie version using sautéed vegetables or a flavorful stuffing layer. You might also consider adding different cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or even pepper jack for a spicier kick!