why make this recipe

These Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders are a fantastic way to use up your turkey and other holiday leftovers. They are quick to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or just want a delicious meal, these sliders will hit the spot. They combine the savory taste of turkey with the sweet zing of cranberry sauce and melty cheese. Plus, they’re easy to pull apart and enjoy, making them a hit with family and friends.

how to make Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

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

Directions:

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 the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden.
Remove from the oven, cool briefly, then separate the sliders using a sharp knife. Serve warm.

how to serve Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

These sliders are best served warm right out of the oven. You can place them on a platter for easy sharing. They are perfect for parties, game day, or holiday festivities. To enhance the experience, consider serving them with extra cranberry sauce or a side of shredded lettuce for added crunch.

how to store Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven for a few minutes until heated through. You can also wrap them in foil to keep them soft while reheating.

tips to make Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Feel free to use any leftover cheese you have on hand.
Add some sliced avocado or fresh spinach for extra nutrition.
Make them ahead of time! You can prepare the sliders and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Experiment with different variations of sauces, like a spicy aioli or BBQ sauce to change the flavor.

variation

You can swap the turkey for leftover chicken, or add some sautéed spinach or caramelized onions for a twist. For a vegetarian option, use a layer of roasted vegetables instead of turkey.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought turkey instead of homemade?
Yes, store-bought turkey works great! Just make sure it is well-seasoned and fresh.

2. Can these sliders be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the prepared but unbaked sliders. Wrap them tightly and store in the freezer. Just thaw and bake when ready to eat.

3. How can I make them spicier?
You can add jalapeños or a spicy relish to the turkey layer. A bit of hot sauce mixed into the mayonnaise is also a great option.