Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry sliders are a fantastic way to use up those holiday leftovers. These delicious sliders combine tender turkey with a sweet and tart cranberry sauce, all melted together with creamy Swiss cheese. Perfect for a cozy gathering or a quick weeknight meal, they deliver comfort in every bite. Let’s dive into this simple yet scrumptious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry

This Thanksgiving leftover turkey cranberry recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Here are a few reasons you’ll adore it:

• Quick preparation—ready in just 30 minutes!
• Perfect for using up leftover turkey and cranberry sauce.
• Family-friendly, appealing to both kids and adults.
• Versatile—great for meal prep or casual gatherings.
• Comfort food that feels festive even after Thanksgiving.
• Gluten-free options available for those with dietary restrictions.

With these sliders, you can embrace creative ways to use turkey cranberry leftovers, ensuring nothing goes to waste from your holiday feast.

Ingredients for Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry

Gather these items:

• 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

How to Make Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: Slice the slider rolls in half horizontally.
3. Step 3: Arrange the bottom halves in a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Step 4: Combine mayonnaise and Dijon mustard in a small bowl and spread it on the cut side of the bottom rolls.
5. Step 5: Distribute the turkey evenly over the prepared buns.
6. Step 6: Spoon cranberry sauce over the turkey.
7. Step 7: Layer the halved slices of cheese over the turkey and cranberry.
8. Step 8: Place the top halves of the rolls over the cheese.
9. Step 9: Mix melted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, poppy seeds, and parsley, then brush over the tops of the rolls.
10. Step 10: Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
11. Step 11: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes.
12. Step 12: Remove from the oven, cool briefly, then separate the sliders and serve warm.

Pro Tips for the Best Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry

Keep these in mind:

• Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add spices like rosemary to enhance the taste.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free slider rolls.

Best Ways to Serve Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry

These sliders are best enjoyed warm and can be served with:

• Fresh green salad for a light meal.
• Sweet potato fries for a comforting side.
• A tangy dipping sauce to complement the flavors.

How to Store and Reheat Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry

To store sliders, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps keep the rolls soft and the filling flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry

What’s the secret to perfect Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry?

The secret is balancing flavors—using a good quality cranberry sauce and fresh turkey ensures each slider bursts with flavor. Pairing with Swiss cheese adds a creamy texture that brings everything together.

Can I make Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sliders up to a day in advance. Just assemble them, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry?

Avoid overcooking the sliders. Keep an eye on them as they bake, and remove them from the oven as soon as the cheese melts and the tops are golden brown. Also, don’t skip the butter brushing for a golden finish!

Variations of Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry You Can Try

If you’re looking for different ways to enjoy this dish, consider these variations:

• Make a cranberry turkey casserole by layering the ingredients in a baking dish.
• Try a turkey cranberry wrap using tortillas for a quick meal.
• Experiment with adding spinach or arugula for a fresh twist.

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe category or try making easy cinnamon rolls for a sweet treat!

For more information on the benefits of using fresh ingredients, visit Healthline.

Print