Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders are a delightful way to give your holiday leftovers a fresh twist. These mini sandwiches are easy to prepare, making them a perfect addition to your festive gatherings or just a cozy night in. Combining tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and creamy cheese, wrapped in soft rolls, each bite is a celebration of the flavors of Thanksgiving in a convenient sliders format.
Why We Love This Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders Recipe
These sliders are not just any ordinary leftovers; they encapsulate the essence of Thanksgiving in a bite-sized form. They are simple to make yet bursting with flavor, making them a favorite among both kids and adults. The sweet and savory combination of the turkey and cranberry sauce paired with the creamy cheese and soft bread makes these sliders irresistible. Plus, they are customizable, so you can adapt the ingredients to suit your taste. Whether serving guests, preparing a quick dinner, or enjoying a midnight snack, these sliders are sure to please.
Ingredients about Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
To create these scrumptious sliders, assemble the following 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
How to Make Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders Directions
Now, let’s dive into the preparation of your Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your sliders will bake evenly and thoroughly.
Next, take the slider rolls and slice them in half horizontally. You want to carefully slice them to create a top and bottom for each slider. Arrange the bottom halves in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure they fit snugly.
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. This mixture serves as the perfect spread to enhance the flavors of your sliders. Spread the mixture generously over the cut sides of the bottom rolls, ensuring each roll is coated.
Once the rolls are ready, layer the cooked turkey evenly over the rolls. Be generous with the turkey, as this is the star of the dish! After that, add a layer of whole berry cranberry sauce. This sauce adds a sweet tang that pairs amazingly with the savory turkey.
To deepen the flavor, place slices of Swiss or provolone cheese on top of the cranberry sauce. The cheese will melt beautifully during baking and create a wonderful texture.
Now, carefully place the top halves of the rolls over the loaded bottom halves, completing your sliders. To add a finishing touch, mix melted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, poppy seeds, and chopped parsley in a small bowl. Brush this mixture over the tops of the rolls, which will create a golden, flavorful crust once baked.
Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes initially, allowing the cheese to melt and the rolls to warm through. After 15 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for another 5 minutes. This final step will give the tops of the rolls a nice golden brown color and crispiness.
Once done, take the sliders out of the oven and let them cool for just a minute before cutting them into individual sliders. Serve them warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors that these Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders offer.
How to Serve Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
The best way to serve these sliders is warm and fresh out of the oven. Place them on a platter for a festive touch and let your guests serve themselves. You may want to garnish the serving dish with sprigs of fresh parsley for added color and flair. On the side, consider offering additional cranberry sauce or a mix of dipping sauces such as mustard or a simple aioli.
These sliders make for an excellent snack for game day, a casual movie night, or even as an appetizing option for a holiday party. Pair them with a light salad or fresh veggies for a balanced meal. With their bite-sized nature, they are also perfect for gatherings where finger foods are preferred.
Expert Tips: Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh turkey and homemade cranberry sauce. This will significantly enhance the overall taste of your sliders.
- Customize Your Cheese: Swiss and provolone cheese work beautifully, but feel free to try other options like cheddar or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble these sliders ahead of time. Prepare them in advance, cover with foil, refrigerate, and bake right before serving.
- Don’t Overstuff: While it might be tempting to pile on the turkey and cranberry, ensure that everything fits well to avoid messy sandwiches.
- Experiment with Spices: Add different spices or herbs to the butter mixture for an exciting twist, such as thyme or rosemary.
- Toast the Buns: For an added crunch, lightly toast the inside of the slider buns before assembly, which adds texture and flavor.
How to Store Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
If you have any leftovers, storing them correctly will ensure they remain delicious. Place the sliders in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They can typically last for up to three days.
To reheat, simply place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. If you plan on freezing them, it’s best to do so before baking. Wrap the assembled, unbaked sliders in plastic wrap and then foil, and they can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Variation of Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Your creativity doesn’t have to stop with the traditional ingredients. Here are some fun variations you can consider:
- Add Veggies: Incorporate some spinach or arugula for a fresh crunch that contrasts the creamy cheese and turkey.
- Different Proteins: Try substituting turkey with chicken, roast beef, or even a vegan alternative for a different take on the slider.
- Spicy Twist: For the heat lovers, add a layer of jalapeño or a drizzle of sriracha in the sliders. This can add a delightful kick to your meal.
- Cranberry Variations: Use different types of cranberry sauce, such as jalapeño cranberry sauce for a sweet and spicy experience.
- Cheese Options: Switch the cheese to a blue cheese or pepper jack for a more robust flavor.
- Buns: Experiment with different types of buns like pretzel buns or whole grain for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
FAQ
What are Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders?
Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders are a delicious and easy way to use up leftover turkey and cranberry sauce, combining them with cheese in mini slider rolls.
How do you make Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders?
To make these sliders, layer turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese between slider rolls, brush them with a butter mixture, and bake until golden and melty.
Can I make Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the sliders ahead of time, refrigerate them, and bake just before serving.
How do you store Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them before baking for up to three months.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
You can customize the sliders with different proteins, add veggies, try various cheeses, or use different types of cranberry sauce for new flavors.
These Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders are not just a meal; they’re a delightful way to relive the flavors of the holiday in the days that follow. By utilizing simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that is both comforting and satisfying — perfect for any occasion!