🖤 BLACK FRIDAY SALE: Get the Christmas Cookbook for only 
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Table of Contents
🍴 Top Kitchen Essentials You'll Love
Introduction to Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and, of course, food. One of the most delightful aspects of this holiday is the abundance of leftovers that come from a grand feast. Among the myriad of ways to enjoy these leftovers, the Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders shine the brightest. But what makes this recipe so special? Is it the perfect blend of comfort food and innovation, or the ease with which it can be prepared? Perhaps it’s the delightful combination of flavors that evoke the spirit of Thanksgiving, even days after the feast has ended.
These sliders are not just a way to repurpose your leftover turkey; they are a culinary hug, wrapping tender turkey and tangy cranberry sauce in soft, pillowy buns, all topped with melted cheese. As you take your first bite, you’ll be met with the rich flavors of turkey, the sweet tartness of cranberry, and a creamy, zesty sauce that ties everything together. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make! With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch of these sliders in no time.
Imagine serving a dish that not only brings comfort but also allows for customization and creativity. Whether you have a crowd to feed or just want a quick meal for yourself, Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders adapt to your needs. They are perfect for casual gatherings and festive occasions, ensuring that each bite is satisfying and full of holiday spirit.
So, are you ready to let those leftovers shine in a new light? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about creating these delicious sliders.
Key Benefits of Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Fusion of Flavors: The sweet and tart cranberry sauce paired with savory turkey creates a perfect blend.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy days.
- Versatile: Customize the sliders with your favorite ingredients, whether it’s different cheeses or additional toppings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings, these sliders are always a hit among friends and family.
- Leftover Friendly: A fantastic way to utilize turkey leftover from Thanksgiving without wasting any food.
- Warm and Comforting: Perfectly melty and cheesy, these sliders encapsulate comfort food.
What Makes It Stand Out
Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders take a classic holiday favorite and turn it into something new and exciting. Using traditional Thanksgiving flavors, this recipe transforms leftover turkey into a snack or meal that everyone can enjoy, making it stand out in a sea of mundane leftovers. What really makes these sliders unique is their ability to be customized. You can easily switch out the cheeses or add different spices to create your own twist on the recipe.
These sliders shine during the holiday season, but their appeal doesn’t end there. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or looking for a quick meal for a weeknight dinner, Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders are versatile for any occasion outside of Thanksgiving as well. They serve as an enticing option for tailgating, casual get-togethers, or even meal prep for a busy week ahead.
Ingredients for Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Complete Ingredient List with Measurements
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or sliced
- 6 slices Swiss cheese or provolone cheese, halved
- 12 slider rolls or mini brioche buns
- 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Substitutes and Alternatives
If you’re looking to make some adjustments to the Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders, there are several swaps you can consider. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, which will give a similar creaminess while adding protein. For a dairy-free version, opt for vegan cheese and dairy-free mayonnaise to ensure everyone can enjoy these sliders.
If you’re gluten-free, you can use gluten-free slider rolls or lettuce wraps instead. The sliders remain delicious even without the bread, giving a fresh twist while accommodating dietary restrictions. Lastly, feel free to play around with different meats, such as rotisserie chicken or even ham, if turkey isn’t available.
How to Make Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders – Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1 – Prepare Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure your turkey is shredded or sliced into manageable pieces. If using cheese, halve those slices. Having everything prepped will make the assembly much smoother.
Step 2 – Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that the sliders bake evenly, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly while keeping the buns from getting too crisp.
Step 3 – Arrange the Bottom Halves
Slice the slider rolls in half horizontally without completely detaching the rolls. Arrange the bottom halves neatly in a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure they fit snugly together.
Step 4 – Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth. This creamy sauce adds a delicious tang to your sliders and takes just seconds to make.
Step 5 – Spread the Sauce
Take the mayonnaise and mustard mixture and spread it evenly over the cut side of the bottom rolls. Make sure to cover every inch for maximum flavor.
Step 6 – Layer the Turkey
Distribute the cooked turkey evenly over the buns. Ensure each slider is generously filled to enjoy the turkey flavor in every bite.
Step 7 – Add the Cranberry Sauce
Next, spoon the whole berry cranberry sauce over the turkey. Spreading it evenly will ensure every slider is deliciously balanced.
Step 8 – Cheese It Up
Layer the halved slices of cheese over the cranberry sauce. This will melt beautifully during baking, adding to the sliders’ overall gooeyness and flavor.
Step 9 – Cover with Top Buns
Place the top halves of the slider rolls back over the cheese layer, creating little sandwiches that will become beautifully golden and crispy.
Step 10 – Prepare the Butter Mixture
In a separate small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, optional poppy seeds, and parsley. This buttery blend will elevate the flavors of the sliders as it bakes.
Step 11 – Brush and Bake
Generously brush the butter mixture over the tops of the rolls. Make sure to get all sides to enhance crispness and flavor. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
Step 12 – Uncover and Finish Baking
After 15 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown. The aroma in your kitchen will be irresistible!
Step 13 – Cool and Serve
After removing the sliders from the oven, allow them to cool for a few moments. Using a sharp knife, separate the sliders and serve warm for the best experience.
Serving Suggestions for Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Best Occasions to Serve This Dish
Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders are diverse in their appeal, making them fantastic for various occasions. They shine brightly during Thanksgiving, serving as a creative and delicious way to enjoy leftovers. However, their simplicity makes them perfect for casual get-togethers, game day parties, or even potluck dinners, where guests will appreciate both the nostalgia and the unique twist on a classic meal.
Additionally, if you’re hosting a holiday open house, these sliders can be prepared ahead of time, making it easy to serve while mingling with your guests. Their bite-sized nature means they can be enjoyed as snacks or part of a larger spread.
What to Serve With It
To complement your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders, consider pairing them with some classic sides. Sweet potato fries or crispy potato chips offer a nice crunch, while a simple garden salad provides freshness to balance out the meal. For drinks, apple cider or a light beer would pair well with the flavors of the sliders, enhancing the entire dining experience.
How to Store Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders Properly
Best Storage Practices
To maintain the freshness of your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders, it’s important to store them correctly. If you have leftovers, first allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to freeze them, wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container to keep them from freezer burn.
Reheating and Freezing Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders again, reheating is simple. For the best results, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method keeps them from getting soggy and helps maintain that delightful crispy outer edge.
If you’ve frozen the sliders, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Alternatively, you can bake them from frozen; just add a few minutes to the heating time, keeping an eye on them to avoid burning.
Tips & Tricks for Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Sauce: Don’t forget to add the mayonnaise and mustard mixture; it’s key for flavor.
- Under-seasoned Turkey: Ensure your turkey is seasoned well as it’s the star ingredient.
- Using Low-Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality cheese that melts well for the best results.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the sliders during the last few minutes to avoid overbaking them.
- Soggy Buns: Ensure the cranberry sauce is not overly wet; you want moistness without sogginess.
Extra Tips for Better Results
For enhanced flavor, consider adding caramelized onions or crispy bacon to your sliders. These additions elevate the umami factor, providing extra depth. Additionally, serving the sliders with a side of extra cranberry sauce or a tangy dipping sauce can transform each bite into a new tasty experience.
Recipe Variations of Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Creative Twists
- BBQ Turkey Sliders: Switch out the cranberry sauce for your favorite BBQ sauce for a savory twist.
- Caprese Style: Add fresh basil and tomato slices along with mozzarella cheese for a refreshing take.
- Buffalo Turkey Sliders: Toss the turkey in Buffalo sauce before layering to spice things up and serve with blue cheese dressing.
Dietary Adjustments
For those needing dietary modifications, these sliders can easily be adapted. For a vegan version, use plant-based turkey substitutes along with vegan cheese and dairy-free mayonnaise. Gluten-free options can be achieved using gluten-free buns or even lettuce wraps for a refreshing twist.
Conclusion about Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders are a unique and delightful way to revitalize your holiday leftovers. Their combination of tender turkey, tangy cranberry, and melty cheese makes them irresistible, while their easy preparation allows everyone to enjoy them with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking for a comforting meal, these sliders are sure to impress. They are not just a recipe; they embody the spirit of Thanksgiving, allowing you to relish in the flavors long after the feast is over. With endless possibilities for customization and serving, Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders deserve a spot in your holiday meal repertoire and beyond. So, gather your ingredients and let the culinary magic unfold!
FAQs about Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
How long can I store Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders?
You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
Can I make Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders ahead of time and bake them just before serving for ultimate freshness.
What is the best way to reheat these sliders?
Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes; this keeps them crispy.
Can I substitute the turkey with something else?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken or ham can work well as alternatives if you don’t have turkey on hand.
What type of cheese works best for these sliders?
Swiss and provolone cheese melt nicely and complement the turkey and cranberry flavors well.
Are there any gluten-free options?
Yes, you can use gluten-free buns or even lettuce wraps as a healthy alternative.
How can I enhance the flavors of the sliders?
Consider adding caramelized onions, fresh herbs, or spices like cayenne pepper to the turkey mixture.
Can I freeze the sliders after baking?
Yes, you can freeze the sliders after baking. Just wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or sliced
- 6 slices Swiss cheese or provolone cheese, halved
- 12 pieces slider rolls or mini brioche buns
- ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise Can be substituted for Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds Optional
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley Optional
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients, ensuring the turkey is shredded or sliced into manageable pieces, and cheese is halved.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the slider rolls in half horizontally without completely detaching them and arrange the bottom halves in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Mix mayonnaise and Dijon mustard in a small bowl until smooth.
- Spread the sauce over the cut side of the bottom rolls.
- Layer cooked turkey evenly over the buns.
- Spoon the cranberry sauce over the turkey.
- Layer the halved slices of cheese over the cranberry sauce.
- Place the top halves of the rolls over the cheese layer.
- Mix melted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, optional poppy seeds, and parsley in a bowl.
- Brush the butter mixture generously over the tops of the rolls.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted and tops are golden brown.
- Allow sliders to cool slightly, then separate and serve warm.