As I stood in my kitchen, glancing at the leftover turkey taking up precious fridge space, a spark of inspiration hit me—Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders. This quick and delightful recipe transforms those festive remnants into cozy comfort food that the whole family can enjoy. Imagine soft slider rolls stuffed with tender turkey, creamy cheese, and a tangy cranberry sauce, all melded together into one irresistible bite. The best part? Not only do these sliders minimize food waste, but they also provide a warm and satisfying meal that captures the spirit of holiday gatherings even after the feast is over. Curious to whip up this tasty treat and give your leftovers a glorious second life? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are these sliders a must-try?
Simplicity: This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for those busy nights when you want a satisfying meal without a lot of fuss.
Waste-Reducing Delight: Transform your Thanksgiving scraps into something fabulous, helping you minimize food waste while savoring every bite of the holiday flavors.
Family Friendly: These sliders are sure to please everyone at the table, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. Serve with your favorite sides, like sweet potato fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Versatile: Feel free to swap turkey with ham or chicken for a new twist, or add in sautéed veggies to elevate your dish further.
Irresistible Flavor: Each slider boasts a delightful combination of savory turkey, creamy cheese, and zesty cranberry, creating a taste sensation that’s sure to impress.
Texture Perfection: Warm, melty, and slightly crispy on top—the perfect bite to experience comfort food bliss!
Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders Ingredients
For the Sliders
- Cooked Turkey – Shredded or sliced, it adds that comforting holiday flavor we cherish.
- Swiss or Provolone Cheese – This melty cheese provides creaminess; feel free to swap it with Monterey Jack for a lighter taste.
- Slider Rolls or Mini Brioche Buns – Soft and fluffy, these make the perfect base; consider whole grain or gluten-free if necessary.
For the Sauce
- Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce – It brings a sweet-tart punch; use homemade or store-bought for convenience.
- Mayonnaise – This adds moisture; Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a lighter option.
- Dijon Mustard – Provides a zesty contrast; yellow mustard is a quick alternative if needed.
Seasoning and Topping
- Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor; fresh minced garlic can amp up the taste.
- Onion Powder – Adds depth; use fresh onions to adjust the flavor as per your preference.
- Melted Butter – For brushing on top rolls; olive oil can lighten things up if desired.
- Poppy Seeds (optional) – They give a decorative touch and a hint of crunch to the sliders.
These Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders are not just a meal; they’re a delightful way to relive your holiday feast!
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 temperature ensures that your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders will bake evenly, creating a perfectly warm and melted center. While you wait for the oven to heat, gather your ingredients and equipment, including a greased 9×13-inch baking dish for assembling the sliders.
Step 2: Prepare the Slider Rolls
Carefully slice the slider rolls in half horizontally, maintaining the connection at the back for easy assembly. Place the bottom half of the rolls into your greased baking dish. This step is crucial as it sets the stage for your deliciously layered sliders, ready to be filled with leftover turkey and more!
Step 3: Make the Saucy Spread
In a small mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until blended smoothly. Spread this creamy mixture generously over the cut sides of the bottom rolls. This sauce not only adds moisture but also enhances the flavor of the Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders, making each bite irresistible.
Step 4: Layer the Turkey and Cranberry
Evenly distribute the shredded or sliced turkey over the sauce-covered bottom rolls, ensuring every slider gets its fair share of flavor. Next, spoon a generous dollop of whole berry cranberry sauce over the turkey layers. This sweet and tangy combination perfectly complements the savory turkey, creating a mouthwatering contrast.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Place slices of Swiss or provolone cheese over the turkey and cranberry layers, covering them completely. This melty goodness will bind your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders together. Make sure to use enough cheese to create a deliciously gooey texture that will be both comforting and satisfying.
Step 6: Prepare the Topping Mixture
In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and poppy seeds (if using) until well combined. This flavorful topping adds a delightful richness and a touch of crunch to the sliders. Brush the topping mixture generously over the top of the assembled rolls, ensuring even coverage for that lovely golden-brown finish.
Step 7: Bake the Sliders
Cover your baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt. After this initial baking time, remove the foil and continue baking for another 5 minutes or until the tops are beautifully golden and crispy, creating a tempting visual appeal.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for about a minute. This brief cooling period helps to set the filling. Carefully cut the sliders apart and serve them warm, perfect for enjoying the comforting flavors of your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders with family and friends!
Storage Tips for Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Fridge: Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, keeping them moist by covering with a damp paper towel.
Freezer: Assemble the sliders without baking and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap; freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake according to the recipe instructions.
Reheating: When reheating stored Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warm and melty.
Room Temperature: For best taste and texture, serve sliders warm; avoid leaving them out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Imagine a cozy gathering filled with laughter, delicious aromas, and a feast that celebrates togetherness, even after the holiday ends.
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Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and slight crispiness provide a delightful contrast to the savory sliders, making each bite more enjoyable.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A crunchy salad with vibrant greens and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the sliders, creating a refreshing palate cleanser.
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Creamy Mac and Cheese: This comfort food classic adds a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the melty cheese in the sliders, making for an indulgent meal.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The nutty flavor of these roasted veggies adds depth and pairs well with the taste sensations in the sliders, while providing a nutritious green element.
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Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of smooth pumpkin soup captures the essence of fall, making it a cozy and thematic accompaniment to the sliders.
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Cranberry Lemonade: This refreshing drink echoes the tanginess of the cranberry sauce in the sliders while providing a zesty kick that brightens up the meal.
Bringing together these delightful sides creates a well-rounded dining experience that everyone will cherish!
Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delicious sliders to fit your taste and dietary needs!
- Ham Swap: Substitute turkey with leftover ham for a savory twist that’s equally delightful.
- Chicken Variation: Replace turkey with shredded chicken, making this recipe a tasty weekday redo.
- Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed spinach or caramelized onions for extra nutrition and flavor richness.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different kinds of cheese, like sharp cheddar or gouda, for a unique flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, mix in a bit of sriracha or chopped jalapeños with the turkey for extra zing.
- Honey Glaze: Drizzle honey over the turkey before adding cranberry sauce to introduce a sweet touch that elevates the sliders.
- Whole Wheat Rolls: Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free slider rolls to make this recipe even more wholesome and inclusive.
- DIY Cranberry Sauce: If you have some time, whip up homemade cranberry sauce with fresh berries for an even fresher taste, like the exceptional recipes found in my Cranberry Pecan Chicken dish.
Feel free to mix and match these options for sliders that are uniquely yours!
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 by layering the turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese on the bottom rolls and then covering them tightly with foil. This way, they stay fresh and flavorful in the refrigerator. If needed, the assembled sliders can even be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. To finish, simply brush with the melted butter mixture and bake as directed: 15 minutes covered, followed by an additional 5 minutes uncovered to get that delightful crispy top. Enjoy all the warm, comforting flavors with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
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Prep Ahead: Preparing your ingredients in advance can streamline your cooking experience, allowing for more time to enjoy with family.
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Watch the Bake Time: Keep a close eye while baking; overbaking can result in dry sliders. Aim for that golden-brown top instead!
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Refrigerate Before Baking: If you’re making these sliders in advance, assemble them without baking, tightly cover, and refrigerate. Just bake before serving for fresh flavors.
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Flavor Boost: For an extra punch, consider adding fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the turkey layer, enhancing the taste of your sliders.
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Experiment with Cheese: While Swiss or provolone work wonders, don’t hesitate to try other melty cheeses to customize your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders.
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Avoid Soggy Bottoms: Utilize a greased baking dish and ensure proper distribution of sauces to prevent the bottom rolls from becoming soggy, ensuring the perfect bite!
Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders Recipe FAQs
What type of turkey is best to use for these sliders?
Absolutely! Shredded or sliced cooked turkey works best for these sliders. Make sure it’s tender to retain the comforting holiday flavors. You can use any leftover turkey from your Thanksgiving feast, whether it’s white or dark meat.
How long can I store these sliders in the fridge?
You can store any leftover Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover them with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
Can I freeze assembled sliders before baking?
Yes, indeed! Assemble the sliders without baking, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then bake according to the original recipe instructions for fresh flavors.
What if my sliders turn out soggy?
To avoid soggy sliders, ensure you’re using a greased baking dish and distributing your sauces evenly. If you find your bottom rolls absorbing too much moisture, consider reducing the amount of sauce or letting the sliders sit for a few minutes before serving.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
When preparing these Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders, consider potential allergies. For a healthier twist, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Additionally, check any bread choices for gluten if you or your guests have gluten sensitivities—whole grain or gluten-free slider rolls can be a great alternative!
Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather your ingredients and greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Slice the slider rolls in half horizontally, maintaining connection at the back, and place bottom half into the baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Spread mixture over the cut sides of bottom rolls.
- Layer shredded turkey over the sauce-covered rolls, then spoon whole berry cranberry sauce over the turkey.
- Cover with slices of cheese completely.
- In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and poppy seeds. Brush mixture over the top of the rolls.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until tops are golden.
- Remove from oven and let cool for about a minute before cutting apart and serving warm.