As the first hints of fall fill the air, my mind turns to the delicious chaos of Thanksgiving feasts—family gathered around the table, laughter echoing, and, of course, the glorious spread of food. But as the leftovers inevitably make their appearance, I often find myself in a culinary rut, unsure of how to revive those holiday flavors. That’s when I discovered the magic of Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders.
These warm, cheesy sliders transform your turkey bounty into something truly special, featuring layers of tender meat, zingy cranberry sauce, and gooey Swiss cheese, all tucked between pillowy slider rolls. They’re easy to assemble and bake, making them the perfect quick meal while ensuring your holiday spirit lingers just a bit longer. With a few simple swaps, you might even bring ham or chicken into the mix, creating an array of slider options that will impress your guests and keep the flavors of Thanksgiving alive. So let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a crowd-pleaser!
Why are Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders amazing?
Irresistible flavors: Each slider boasts a delightful mix of savory turkey and tangy cranberry sauce that sings with every bite.
Versatile options: Switch up the protein with leftover ham or rotisserie chicken, and choose different cheeses to personalize your sliders.
Quick assembly: With minimal prep time, these sliders make it simple to whip up a delicious dish from your leftovers.
Crowd-pleasing charm: Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, everyone will love these warm, cheesy bites!
Make-ahead friendly: Prep them in advance, refrigerate, and bake just before serving to save time and keep the holiday spirit alive.
Comfort food: Ideal for chilly evenings, these sliders will bring a cozy, nostalgic feeling back to your home-cooked meals.
Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders Ingredients
For the Sliders
- Cooked Turkey – Provides the main protein; feel free to swap it out for leftover ham or rotisserie chicken for variety.
- Swiss or Provolone Cheese – Melts beautifully for creaminess; consider using sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Slider Rolls or Mini Brioche Buns – Serve as the base; keep rolls connected for easy serving and to maintain moisture.
- Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce – Adds that sweet-tart zing; if you’re out, try apricot preserves or fig jam as a delightful alternative.
- Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess to the sauce; can be swapped for Greek yogurt for a lighter take.
- Dijon Mustard – Contributes a tangy kick to the mix.
- Unsalted Butter – For brushing the tops, enhancing that savory finish.
- Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Poppy Seeds, and Parsley – Provide seasoning and garnishing flavors; adjust quantities based on your taste preferences.
Optional Toppings
- Sautéed Spinach or Stuffing – These additions can elevate your sliders with extra flavor and texture.
- Shredded Lettuce or Sliced Tomato – Fresh toppings add crunch and brightness to your sliders.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create delightful Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders that everyone will love!
How to Make Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly warm and crispy slider by the time you finish assembling them.
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Prepare Rolls: Slice the slider rolls horizontally and arrange the bottom halves in a greased baking dish. Keeping them connected allows for easy serving later!
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Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Spread this creamy mixture generously on the cut sides of the rolls for added flavor.
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Layer Ingredients: Evenly distribute the shredded turkey over the bottom buns, then layer a spoonful of cranberry sauce followed by the cheese of your choice. This combination creates delicious taste harmony.
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Top with Rolls: Place the top halves of the slider rolls over the cheese. This will create perfect little pockets of flavor and melty goodness.
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Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine melted butter with garlic and onion powders. Brush this seasoned mixture over the top of each roll for a savory finish.
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Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese has melted and the tops are golden brown.
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Serve: Let the sliders cool for a minute, then cut them into individual portions. Serve warm and watch them disappear!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
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Fridge: Store leftover sliders tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to retain their freshness and flavor.
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Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, freeze these Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the sliders in the oven at 350°F (175°C), wrapped in foil, for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
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Assembling Ahead: You can assemble sliders in advance, cover, and refrigerate them unbaked for a quick meal option. Just bake them just before serving!
Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will amp up your slider game and keep your taste buds dancing!
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Chicken Swap: Use leftover rotisserie chicken instead of turkey for a lighter version packed with flavor.
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Ham Deliciousness: Substitute turkey with leftover ham for a sweet and savory combination that’s simply irresistible.
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Cheese Variety: Try using sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack; these cheeses add a unique zest to your sliders.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or jalapeños for those who crave a little heat; it brings an exciting twist!
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Stuffing Layers: Incorporate a layer of leftover stuffing into the sliders for an extra dose of holiday flavor and texture.
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Veggie Boost: Sauté fresh spinach or mushrooms to add a pop of freshness that brightens each bite and mixes beautifully with the other ingredients.
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Sweet Alternatives: If you’re out of cranberry sauce, consider apricot preserves or fig jam for a sweet-tart variation that’s equally charming.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free slider rolls to ensure everyone can enjoy these scrumptious bites without worry.
Each variation offers a unique taste experience, ensuring those Thanksgiving flavors never feel stale. Happy cooking!
Make Ahead Options
These Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the sliders up to 24 hours in advance by placing them in a greased baking dish, covering with foil, and refrigerating. To maintain quality and prevent the rolls from becoming soggy, be sure to tightly pack the sliders and avoid adding the butter topping until just before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), brush the tops with the seasoned butter mixture, and bake the sliders covered for 15 minutes, then uncovered for an additional 5 minutes. You’ll have warm, gooey sliders ready to enjoy with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
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Moisture Matters: Brush the rolls with seasoned butter before baking and cover with foil for most of the baking time to retain moisture.
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Prep Ahead: Assemble your sliders and refrigerate them unbaked. Bake them just before serving to ensure maximum flavor and freshness.
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Pack Them Tight: Ensure the buns are closely packed together in the baking dish; this helps maintain moisture during baking and prevents them from drying out.
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Customize Ingredients: Feel free to experiment! Different cheeses or adding layers of sautéed spinach can elevate your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders even more.
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Perfect Serving Size: Cut sliders into smaller pieces for a delightful finger food option that’s great for parties or casual gatherings.
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders?
As you indulge in these delightful sliders, consider pairing them with side dishes that enhance the festive flavors and textures of your meal.
- Crisp Green Salad: Fresh greens tossed with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sliders. The crunch and acidity make each bite even more enjoyable.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy, slightly sweet fries add a delightful crunch and complement the savory flavor of the turkey and cranberry. They’re just the right amount of comfort food!
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasted brussel sprouts, carrots, and zucchini drizzled with garlic olive oil offer earthy tones that balance the sliders beautifully. They are both healthy and flavorful side options.
- Cranberry Jalapeño Relish: This spicy twist on cranberry sauce takes your flavors up a notch, providing a zesty kick that pairs perfectly with the sliders. It’s a fun way to refresh those holiday tastes!
- Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw will add a crunchy element that complements the warmth and softness of the sliders. The coolness of the slaw enhances the overall eating experience.
- Sparkling Cider: Serve this refreshing beverage to complement the meal; its fruity notes will elevate the flavors of the sliders while adding a festive touch.
Each of these pairings not only offers contrasting textures but also amplifies the warm, comforting experience of enjoying your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders!
Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders Recipe FAQs
What type of turkey works best for the sliders?
Absolutely! Cooked, shredded turkey is the star of these sliders. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, leftover ham or rotisserie chicken can also be excellent substitutes, bringing a delightful twist to the flavor profile.
How should I store leftover sliders?
For the best outcome, store leftover sliders tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents them from drying out. When you’re ready to dig in, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes for optimal taste.
Can I freeze Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders?
Certainly! These sliders freeze well for up to 2 months. To freeze, assemble the sliders but do not bake them. Instead, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, just bake from frozen, adding additional time as needed, and they’ll taste as great as fresh!
What if the cheese doesn’t melt properly?
The key to a perfect melt is a combination of low heat and a covered baking dish. If you find your cheese isn’t melting well, ensure that you’re baking at 350°F (175°C) and covering the dish with foil for the initial 15 minutes. You can also use a cheese blend that melts easily, like Swiss or Provolone, for the best results.
Can I make these sliders for someone with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can customize these sliders to fit various dietary needs. Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy flavor. If gluten is an issue, use gluten-free slider rolls. Additionally, always check the ingredients of your cranberry sauce and cheese to ensure they meet any specific allergies or dietary requirements.
What are some variations I can try with the sliders?
The more the merrier! You can add layers of sautéed spinach or even stuffing for an extra festive touch. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different meats or cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar to create unique flavors each time you make these Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders!
Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the slider rolls horizontally and arrange the bottom halves in a greased baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Spread this mixture on the cut sides of the rolls.
- Layer shredded turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese on the bottom buns.
- Place the top halves of the slider rolls over the cheese.
- Combine melted butter with garlic and onion powders, and brush this mixture over the top of each roll.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Let the sliders cool for a minute, then cut into individual portions and serve warm.