Save There is nothing cozier than transforming Thanksgiving leftovers into something new and crave-worthy and these turkey cranberry sliders are the answer when you want a fast meal or a playful party snack after the big feast. Warm rolls are layered with juicy turkey, gooey melted cheese, and a hint of sweet-tart cranberry sauce before getting a buttery, savory topping that pulls everything together. They have become a tradition in my kitchen every year and nobody can resist grabbing just one more.
When I first made these sliders, I was just trying to clear out fridge space after hosting Thanksgiving. Now we look forward to them as much as the main event. They are the first thing that disappears at our annual friendsgiving brunch.
Ingredients
- Cooked turkey: Either shredded or sliced, adds heartiness and soaks up all the flavors of the sauce and cheese. Look for meat that is moist but not overly fatty.
- Swiss cheese or provolone: For rich creamy melt. Freshly sliced cheese from the deli has the best flavor and meltability.
- Slider rolls or mini brioche buns: Fluffy texture and just a hint of sweetness. Pick the softest rolls you can find as stale rolls dry out in the oven.
- Cranberry sauce: Preferably whole berry for bright tangy sweetness that balances the savory layers. Check for large whole berries and natural ingredients if using store-bought.
- Mayonnaise: Gives creaminess while helping anchor the fillings. Go for real egg mayo rather than light versions for best flavor.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle zing. Choose smooth Dijon for a subtle kick that doesn't overpower.
- Unsalted butter: For brushing the tops, keeps everything moist and adds golden color. Real butter makes a difference.
- Poppy seeds and chopped parsley: Festive finish. Totally optional but look beautiful and add a little crunch and freshness.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Lend savory depth to the buttery topping. Buy from a store with good turnover for the freshest spices.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Start by setting your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius. This gets everything evenly melty and toasty while you prep the rest.
- Prep the Rolls:
- Take your slider rolls and slice them horizontally so you have tops and bottoms but keep the rolls together in one piece. Arranging just the bottom halves in a greased nine by thirteen inch baking dish ensures the sliders hold together after baking.
- Mix and Spread the Sauce:
- In a small bowl combine mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Mix until smooth and evenly spread every bit of the mixture across the cut side of the bottom buns. This layer protects the bread from sogginess and infuses every bite with creaminess and gentle tang.
- Layer the Turkey and Cranberry:
- Distribute the turkey in a thick even layer so each slider gets plenty. Dollop cranberry sauce over the turkey being sure to cover edge to edge for sweet-tart pops in every bite.
- Add the Cheese:
- Lay the Swiss or provolone cheese evenly over the entire surface. Overlap slices slightly for full coverage so every piece oozes when melted.
- Cap with the Top Buns:
- Place the top rolls back over the cheese so the sliders are whole again and press gently to settle them.
- Make the Buttery Topping:
- Combine melted butter garlic powder onion powder poppy seeds and fresh parsley in a small bowl. Use a pastry brush to paint this mixture over the tops being generous so each slider soaks up plenty of butter and seasonings.
- Bake Covered and Uncovered:
- Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to keep moisture in and bake for fifteen minutes. Afterward uncover and bake five minutes more until the cheese is fully melted and the tops are soft and golden.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the sliders cool briefly after they come out of the oven so they set. Use a sharp knife to gently cut them into individual portions and serve warm for best texture.
Save My family is obsessed with the cranberry sauce layer—it is the surprise star. The first time my niece tried one she asked if I made extra just for her and now brings her own homemade cranberry to make sure there is enough the next day.
Storage Tips
You can store leftover sliders tightly covered in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven loosely wrapped in foil at three hundred and fifty degrees until warmed through so the buns do not dry out. For make-ahead convenience assemble the sliders and chill unbaked then bake off just before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
Leftover ham or rotisserie chicken can stand in for turkey easily. Sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack work for the cheese layer if you do not have Swiss or provolone on hand. No cranberry sauce? A spoonful of apricot preserves or a thin layer of fig jam gives similar sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Pile the sliders on a platter for movie night finger food or serve with a crisp green salad and crunchy pickles for a light meal. They also shine on a holiday brunch table next to mimosas or a pot of hot spiced cider.
Save Try these for your next post-holiday gathering and watch them disappear. Even picky eaters will be back for more with these crowd-pleasing sliders.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use a different cheese variety?
Yes, provolone, mozzarella, or even cheddar work well and offer deliciously melty results.
- → What’s the best way to keep sliders moist?
Brush the tops with the seasoned butter before baking and cover with foil for most of the baking time.
- → Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?
You can assemble the sliders in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best flavor.
- → Are stuffing or greens good additions?
Absolutely—layer in leftover stuffing or sautéed spinach for added texture and taste.
- → What are suitable sides or drinks?
Serve with a crisp salad, white wine, or sparkling cider to complement the festive flavors.