Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders are a cozy, delicious way to enjoy holiday leftovers. They’re easy to make and perfect for a family meal. You get that rich turkey flavor, a sweet touch from the cranberry sauce, and creamy cheese all packed into soft little buns. These sliders are not just tasty; they’re also a fun and satisfying way to use up what you have in your fridge.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

These sliders are so simple and quick to put together. All you need are some everyday ingredients. They make a great lunch, snack, or light dinner for the family. Plus, kids love them! The combination of flavors—savory turkey, sweet cranberry, and melted cheese—is always a hit. You’ll feel great knowing you’ve turned leftovers into something special.

How to Make Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Making these sliders is straightforward and takes very little time. You start by layering your tasty fillings in slider buns and baking until everything is warm and bubbly. It’s a simple way to create a delightful meal that brings the holiday spirit back to your table.

What You Need

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

Step-by-Step

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Slice the slider rolls in half horizontally, keeping individual rolls attached. Arrange the bottom halves in a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Spread the mixture evenly over the cut side of the bottom rolls.
Distribute the turkey evenly over the prepared buns. Spoon cranberry sauce over the turkey.
Layer halved slices of cheese over the turkey and cranberry. Place the top halves of the rolls over the cheese.
In another small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, poppy seeds, and parsley. Brush the mixture generously over the tops of the rolls.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes, until cheese is melted and tops are golden.
Remove from oven, cool briefly, then separate the sliders using a sharp knife. Serve warm.

How to Serve Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

These sliders are perfect on their own, but you can serve them with a side of crispy potato chips or a fresh green salad. They’re great for game day or a family movie night. You might even enjoy them with a warm bowl of soup, making for a cozy meal.

How to Store Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

To store any leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can usually be kept for about 3-4 days. If you want to freeze them, wrap the sliders tightly in aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They should be fine in the freezer for up to a month. To reheat, just pop them back in the oven until warm.

Recipe Tips

Use leftover turkey from your holiday feast to save time.
If you want a crispy top, broil the sliders for a minute after baking.
Add a slice of your favorite cheese for different flavor profiles.
Use whole-grain rolls for added nutrition and flavor.
Feel free to adjust the amount of cranberry sauce based on your taste preference.

Variations & Swaps

Try adding some sliced avocado for a creamy texture.
For a vegetarian option, swap the turkey with roasted mushrooms or chickpeas.
Use pepper jack cheese instead of Swiss for a little kick.
You can also add chopped spinach or arugula for a fresh twist.
If you have cranberry relish, it works just as well!

FAQs

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sliders and keep them assembled in the fridge. Just cover them tightly and bake when you’re ready. It saves a lot of time on busy days.

Can I freeze leftover sliders?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap them well in foil or freezer bags. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

What’s the best way to reheat the sliders?
Reheating in the oven is best. Cover with foil to keep them moist, and heat at 350°F until warm and the cheese is melted.

Can I switch the turkey out for another protein?
Yes! You can use shredded chicken, ham, or even a plant-based protein like jackfruit for a different flavor.

What should I serve with the sliders?
These sliders pair well with a side salad, potato chips, or a warm bowl of soup for a complete meal.