Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Name: Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: December 14, 2025

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Introduction to Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

There’s something magical about Thanksgiving, isn’t there? The laughter, the delicious food, and the unforgettable memories created at the dinner table are all part of our cherished traditions. But what happens once the feast is over? Enter the delicious world of Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders! These little bites of joy transform leftover turkey and cranberry sauce into an irresistible treat. Perfect for busy moms and professionals like me, they’re quick to prepare and full of flavor. Trust me, your family will love these sliders almost as much as the turkey itself!

Why You’ll Love These Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

These Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders are a lifesaver for those busy days after the holiday. They’re not just a breeze to whip up; they also offer a delightful explosion of tastes that brings joy to every bite. Plus, they make perfect use of leftovers, reducing food waste while providing a satisfying meal. You can easily prep them ahead of time, so you can focus on what truly matters—spending time with your loved ones!

Ingredients for Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

To create these mouthwatering Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders, you’ll need a handful of tasty ingredients that work harmoniously to celebrate your leftovers. Start with cooked turkey, which can be shredded or sliced, offering that comforting holiday flavor. Add Swiss or provolone cheese for a creamy, melty touch. The slider rolls or mini brioche buns serve as the perfect vehicle for our hearty fillings. Whole berry cranberry sauce adds sweetness and tartness, while mayonnaise and Dijon mustard create a deliciously smooth spread. Don’t forget the seasonings—garlic powder and onion powder elevate the flavor while a bit of melted butter adds richness. For exact measurements, check out the details at the bottom of this article!

How to Make Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Preheat the Oven

Before diving into sandwich-making, it’s essential to have your oven ready. Preheating to 350°F ensures that your sliders bake evenly and come out perfectly toasted. Think of it as warming up your kitchen before a cozy gathering!

Prepare the Slider Rolls

Carefully slice your slider rolls in half horizontally, keeping the individual rolls attached. This not only makes assembly easier but also helps hold all those delicious fillings in place. Place the bottom halves in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. You’ll have a wonderful base for all your tasty toppings!

Spread the Sauce

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise and Dijon mustard for a creamy, zesty flavor. Spread this mixture evenly over the cut side of the bottom rolls. This addition is crucial; it keeps the sliders moist while enhancing every bite with a tangy kick. Trust me, your family will love it!

Layer the Turkey and Cranberry

Now comes the hero of our sliders—layer the shredded or sliced turkey evenly over the prepared buns. Spoon a generous amount of whole berry cranberry sauce over the turkey, allowing the sweet and tart notes to burst through. This makes your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders unique and irresistible!

Add the Cheese

Next, it’s time to add the cheesy goodness. Layer halved slices of Swiss or provolone cheese over the turkey and cranberry sauce. The cheese melts beautifully, binding all those luscious flavors together. Each slider will be a melty delight, making your taste buds dance!

Prepare the Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of poppy seeds if you fancy. Brush this delightful mixture generously over the tops of the rolls. It adds richness and an enticing aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake!

Bake the Sliders

Cover your baking dish with foil to keep the sliders moist. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 5 minutes. This short baking time melds flavors and results in golden, toasty tops. Your sliders are now on their way to becoming a family favorite!

Serve Warm

After removing the sliders from the oven, let them cool for a minute. Use a sharp knife to separate the sliders before serving them warm. They’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, so gather your loved ones and dig in!

Tips for Success

For extra flavor, try adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the turkey layer.
Prepare the sliders ahead of time and refrigerate; bake just before serving for a warm treat.
Swap out the cheese for your favorite variety if you want to experiment with flavors.
Brush the tops of the rolls with a sprinkle more of garlic powder for enhanced aroma.

Equipment Needed

9×13-inch baking dish (a larger or smaller dish works too)
Sharp knife for slicing the rolls
Mixing bowls for sauces and butter mixture
Pastry brush for applying the butter blend
Oven mitts to safely handle hot dishes

Variations of Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to the turkey layer.
Substitute turkey with leftover ham or chicken for a different flavor profile.
Use gluten-free slider rolls to accommodate dietary needs.
Try feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist instead of Swiss or provolone.

Serving Suggestions for Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Pair with sweet potato fries for a comforting side that complements the sliders.
Serve with a crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette to balance flavors.
Offer cranberry juice or a festive punch to drink for a cheerful touch.
For presentation, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

FAQs about Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

What can I do with extra cranberry sauce?

You can use leftover cranberry sauce not just for these Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders, but also as a topping for pancakes, yogurt, or even a glaze for meats!

Can I prepare these sliders in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the sliders ahead of time and bake them just before serving. This makes hosting so much easier.

What should I serve with the sliders?

These sliders are delicious on their own, but a sweet potato fry or fresh salad on the side would elevate the meal.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

While they’re best fresh, you can freeze the assembled sliders. Just thaw and bake when ready to enjoy!

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders are more than just a recipe; they’re a celebration of the love and warmth we share during the holidays. Each slider brings comfort and joy, reminding us of family gatherings and bustling kitchens. Plus, they make using leftovers a delightful experience, transforming them into something special. When you gather around the table with these sliders, you’re not just feeding your family—you’re wrapping them in memories, laughter, and the spirit of Thanksgiving. So go ahead, whip up these tasty bites, and let the good times roll!