Why Make This Recipe
Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders are a fantastic way to use up those extra turkey and cranberry sauce from your holiday feast. These sliders are easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a quick meal or snack. They are great for game day, potlucks, or simple gatherings with family and friends. Plus, you can prepare them in advance and bake them fresh when you’re ready to eat!
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 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
Serve these sliders warm, fresh out of the oven. They can be placed on a large platter for everyone to grab or served individually. Pair them with chips, a light salad, or vegetable sticks for a complete meal. They are also great for lunch the next day!
How to Store Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Tips to Make Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
- Use leftover turkey for the best flavor, but deli turkey works in a pinch.
- Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on your preference. Cheddar or pepper jack can add a nice twist.
- If you want extra crunch, try adding some thinly sliced apple or celery to the sliders before baking.
Variation
You can make these sliders vegetarian by swapping out the turkey for roasted veggies or a plant-based protein. You can also try different sauces, like barbecue sauce or ranch dressing, for a unique flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the sliders and store them in the fridge without baking. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
2. What else can I add to the sliders?
You can add ingredients like sliced avocado, spinach, or even some pickles for an extra flavor punch.
3. Are these sliders suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled sliders before baking. Wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
- Diet: Optional Vegetarian
Description
A delicious way to use up leftover turkey and cranberry sauce with these easy sliders, perfect for game day or potlucks.
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
Instructions
- 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.
Notes
These sliders can be made ahead of time and baked fresh when ready to eat. Best served warm and can be paired with chips or salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 30mg




