Transform your post-holiday turkey into an irresistible meal with these incredibly easy and flavorful **Cranberry Turkey Sliders**! Featuring tender leftover turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, savory gravy, and gooey melted mozzarella, all nestled between soft, sweet Hawaiian buns, these sliders are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They’re the ultimate solution for Thanksgiving leftovers, turning a fridge full of holiday remnants into a fresh, exciting dish that everyone will adore.
Easy Cranberry Turkey Sliders: The Ultimate Leftover Transformation
Thanksgiving is a magical time of year, filled with gratitude, family, and, let’s be honest, an abundance of food. While the holiday feast itself is a culinary highlight, the days that follow often present a delicious dilemma: what to do with all those wonderful leftovers? In many homes, including ours, the refrigerator quickly becomes a Tetris puzzle of turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, and various side dishes. It’s a testament to our holiday spirit (and perhaps a touch of over-enthusiasm in the kitchen!), but even the most beloved dishes can start to feel a bit… repetitive.
That’s where these incredible Cranberry Turkey Sliders come to the rescue! This recipe isn’t just a way to use up your post-holiday bounty; it’s a brilliant transformation, reimagining familiar flavors into something entirely new and exciting. No more plain turkey sandwiches or predictable omelets. These sliders offer an explosion of flavor and texture that will make your family cheer, “More leftovers, please!” They are simple to assemble, bake quickly, and pack a savory-sweet punch that’s perfect for any occasion.
The combination of tender turkey, the vibrant sweetness of cranberry sauce, and rich gravy, all brought together with melted cheese on a soft roll, creates a harmonious blend that celebrates the best of holiday dining in a convenient, slider-sized package. It’s the perfect way to prevent those Thanksgiving staples from languishing in the fridge and give them a glorious second act.
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Turkey Slider Recipe
Beyond being a fantastic way to utilize holiday leftovers, these Cranberry Turkey Sliders offer a multitude of reasons to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Their convenience and crowd-pleasing appeal make them ideal for various settings, from casual family dinners to festive holiday parties.
- Effortless Preparation: This recipe is designed for ease. With pre-cooked turkey and ready-made cranberry sauce and gravy, the assembly process is incredibly quick. You’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying delicious food with loved ones.
- Irresistible Flavor Fusion: The sliders deliver a perfect balance of savory and sweet. The rich, succulent turkey and gravy are beautifully complemented by the bright, tart notes of cranberry sauce. Melted mozzarella adds a creamy, decadent finish, tying all the flavors together perfectly.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: While they shine as a post-Thanksgiving treat, these sliders are fantastic year-round. They make excellent party appetizers, a quick and satisfying lunch, or a light dinner. Their portable nature also makes them great for potlucks or game-day gatherings.
- Waste Reduction at Its Best: Food waste is a common concern after large holiday meals. This recipe provides an ingenious and delicious method to repurpose leftover turkey, gravy, and cranberry sauce, ensuring that none of those precious holiday ingredients go to waste.
- Customizable to Your Taste: Whether you prefer a spicier kick, a different type of cheese, or a vegetarian version, these sliders are incredibly adaptable. You can easily adjust ingredients to suit dietary needs or simply to experiment with new flavor profiles.
Gather Your Simple Ingredients for Epic Sliders
One of the best aspects of these Cranberry Turkey Sliders is that they use readily available ingredients, many of which you likely already have on hand, especially after a holiday feast. Here’s a detailed look at the core components that come together to create this incredible dish:
- Turkey: The star of the show! You’ll need about 3 cups of cooked, diced, or shredded turkey. This is perfect for using up leftover Thanksgiving turkey, whether it’s white meat, dark meat, or a mix of both. If you don’t have holiday leftovers, deli turkey can also work in a pinch for a quick weeknight meal.
- Cranberry Sauce: A 15-ounce can of jellied or whole berry cranberry sauce is ideal. The sweetness and tartness of the cranberry sauce are essential for balancing the savory turkey and gravy, adding that distinct holiday flavor. Homemade cranberry sauce works wonderfully too!
- Mozzarella Cheese, Shredded: About 1 cup of shredded mozzarella will give you that perfect gooey, melted layer. Its mild flavor allows the turkey and cranberry to shine.
- Gravy: Approximately 1 ½ cups of leftover turkey gravy or a prepared packet of gravy adds moisture and a rich, savory depth to the sliders. This binds the turkey pieces together and infuses them with classic holiday flavor.
- Butter: Half a cup of melted butter is used to brush over the tops of the rolls, giving them a golden, slightly crispy crust and adding a delicious richness.
- Hawaiian Sweet Rolls (or other Bread Rolls): One dozen fresh bread rolls are needed. Hawaiian sweet rolls are highly recommended for their inherent sweetness and soft, fluffy texture, which beautifully complements the filling. However, any soft dinner roll or slider bun will work.
- Sesame Seeds/Poppy Seeds (Optional): A couple of tablespoons of sesame seeds or poppy seeds sprinkled on top of the buttered rolls before baking add a lovely texture and a nutty flavor. For a more complex flavor, consider everything bagel seasoning.
Essential Kitchen Equipment for Slider Success
Making these Cranberry Turkey Sliders doesn’t require any fancy gadgets. Most of these items are standard kitchen tools you likely already own, making this recipe even more accessible. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 9×13 Baking Dish: This standard-sized baking dish is perfect for holding a full dozen sliders, allowing them to bake evenly and get that wonderful golden crust.
- Large Pot: A large pot is needed to gently heat and combine the turkey and gravy on the stovetop.
- Small Bowl: Useful for melting the butter and mixing any optional garnishes.
- Bread Knife: A serrated bread knife makes slicing the Hawaiian rolls horizontally much easier and ensures clean cuts without tearing the delicate buns.
- Measuring Spoons/Cups: For accurate measurement of ingredients, ensuring the perfect flavor balance.
- Parchment Paper: Lining your baking dish with parchment paper is highly recommended. It prevents the sliders from sticking, makes cleanup a breeze, and helps achieve a perfectly baked bottom crust.
- Aluminum Foil: Keep a roll of aluminum foil handy. If the tops of your sliders start browning too quickly, a loose tent of foil can prevent them from getting too dark while the cheese melts and the filling warms through.
- Heat-Resistant Potholders: Safety first! Always use reliable, heat-resistant potholders when handling hot dishes from the oven. A good set can prevent accidents and ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Cranberry Turkey Sliders
Making these delicious sliders is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a mouthwatering meal that will impress everyone.
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Ingredients
Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). While the oven heats, gather all your ingredients and equipment. Dice or shred your cooked turkey into manageable pieces if you haven’t already. This ensures even distribution and makes for easy eating.
Step 2: Warm Turkey and Gravy Mixture
In a large pot or saucepan on the stovetop, combine the diced turkey pieces and gravy. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warmed through and just begins to simmer. This step ensures the turkey is moist and flavorful and the gravy is well incorporated before assembling the sliders. While this mixture is warming, take your Hawaiian bread rolls and carefully slice them horizontally, keeping the top and bottom halves connected if possible. This makes assembly much easier. Line your 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper, then place the bottom half of the rolls into the prepared dish.
Step 3: Layer the Turkey and Gravy
Once the turkey and gravy mixture is ready, evenly spread it over the entire bottom layer of the Hawaiian rolls in the baking dish. Make sure to extend the mixture as close to the edges as possible to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 4: Add Cranberry Sauce and Cheese
Next, spoon the cranberry sauce over the turkey and gravy layer. You can spread it gently or leave it in dollops, depending on your preference. Finally, generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the cranberry sauce. This layer will melt beautifully, creating a gooey, irresistible topping.
Step 5: Top, Butter, and Bake
Carefully place the top halves of the buns back onto the assembled sliders. In a small bowl, melt the butter, then use a pastry brush to evenly coat the tops of all the buns. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning over the buttered tops for extra crunch and flavor. Bake the sliders in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is thoroughly melted, bubbly, and the tops of the rolls are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked to perfection, remove the sliders from the oven. Let them cool for a minute or two, then use a bread knife to cut along the lines of the rolls, separating them into individual sliders. Serve warm and watch them disappear!
Preparation and Storage Tips for Convenience
These Cranberry Turkey Sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly convenient, especially when it comes to make-ahead options and handling leftovers. Make your holiday planning a breeze with these practical tips:
Make-Ahead: These sliders are an absolute dream for make-ahead meals or party prep. You can fully assemble them up to 24 hours before baking. Simply layer all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just remove them from the fridge, add the melted butter and optional seeds, and pop them into the oven. You might need to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Storage: If you happen to have any leftover sliders (a rare occurrence!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will maintain their best quality for up to three days. For easy grab-and-go options, consider wrapping individual cooled sliders in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. This double insulation helps keep them fresh and makes quick snacking simple.
Freezing/How to Freeze: For longer storage, Cranberry Turkey Sliders freeze beautifully. Once completely cooled, arrange individual sliders in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight, freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty Ziploc bag. For extra protection against freezer burn, you can wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in the container. Enjoy frozen sliders within three months.
How to Reheat: Reheating leftover or frozen sliders is easy. If frozen, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for best results, ensuring even reheating. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick warm-up (about 30-60 seconds). For multiple servings or a crispier texture, reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is re-melted. A skillet on medium-low heat, covered, also works well for a few sliders, offering a nice crisp bottom.
Customizing Your Sliders: Delicious Recipe Variations
One of the joys of this Cranberry Turkey Slider recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with these variations to suit your taste preferences or to simply use what you have on hand.
- Cheese Alternatives: While mozzarella offers a classic melt, don’t hesitate to switch it up! Provolone, gouda, Swiss cheese, sharp cheddar, Havarti, or even brie can add different layers of flavor and creaminess to your sliders. A smoked gouda, for instance, would introduce a wonderful smoky note.
- Bread Choices: Hawaiian sweet rolls are fantastic, but you can certainly use other types of soft dinner rolls or potato buns. Just be aware that denser breads might require a slightly longer baking time to warm through properly.
- Garnish Options: Elevate the tops of your sliders! Beyond sesame and poppy seeds, consider sprinkling everything bagel seasoning for a savory, garlicky crunch. Dried herbs like parsley or chives can also add a fresh visual appeal and subtle flavor.
- Serve with Dips: Offer a side of Dijon mustard, honey mustard, or even a dollop of a sweet fruit jam (like fig or apricot) for guests to customize their sliders. The sweet and savory interplay is delightful.
- Vegetarian Option: Easily adapt this recipe for vegetarian guests by replacing the turkey with a plant-based turkey alternative. Ensure your gravy is also vegetarian (or use a mushroom-based gravy) and you’ll have a fantastic meat-free option.
- Vegan Option: To make these sliders fully vegan, follow the vegetarian guidance by using plant-based turkey and gravy. Additionally, swap out the mozzarella cheese for a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative and use plant-based butter or olive oil for brushing the tops of the buns.
- Gluten-Free: For those with gluten sensitivities, simply use gluten-free bread rolls. It’s also crucial to ensure that your gravy is explicitly labeled gluten-free, as many gravies contain flour and thus gluten. You can easily find gluten-free gravy mixes or make your own using gluten-free flour.
- Smaller or Larger Serving Size: This recipe typically yields 12 sliders, perfect for a standard dozen roll pack. To scale up or down, simply adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally. A smaller baking dish (like an 8×8 or 9×9 inch pan) can be used for fewer sliders.
- Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to your turkey and gravy mixture. For an even more intense flavor, some brands offer cranberry-chipotle sauces that would be fantastic in this recipe, adding a smoky, spicy kick.
- Sugar-Free Consideration: The sugar content in these sliders primarily comes from the cranberry sauce. If you’re monitoring sugar intake, opt for sugar-free or low-sugar cranberry sauce options to reduce the overall sugar content per serving.
Pro Tips for Perfect Turkey Sliders Every Time
Achieving perfectly gooey, golden Cranberry Turkey Sliders is simple with a few expert tips:
- Watch Your Oven Closely: Every oven is unique and can impact baking times. Keep a watchful eye on your sliders as they bake. The primary goal is to get the cheese melted and bubbly, and the filling heated through. Once the cheese has fully melted and the rolls are lightly toasted, they are ready to come out. Overbaking can dry out the turkey or harden the rolls.
- Consider Your Bread Type: The type of bread rolls you use will affect baking time and browning. Sweet Hawaiian rolls, being softer and airier, tend to brown and crisp up faster than denser, more traditional dinner rolls. If using a different type of bread, you might need to adjust baking time slightly.
- Even Spreading is Key: For the best flavor distribution in every bite, make sure to spread the turkey-gravy mixture and cranberry sauce evenly across the bottom layer of the rolls, extending close to the edges.
- Prevent Over-Browning: If the tops of your rolls start to brown too quickly before the cheese is fully melted, loosely tent the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will protect the tops while allowing the inside to continue heating.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure your rolls fit comfortably in the 9×13 baking dish without being overly squashed. This allows for even air circulation and baking.
- Let Them Rest Briefly: After removing from the oven, let the sliders sit for 1-2 minutes. This allows the melted cheese to set slightly, making them easier to cut and serve without all the delicious filling oozing out immediately.
What to Serve Alongside Your Sliders: Complete Your Meal
These festive Cranberry Turkey Sliders are versatile enough to fit into almost any menu. Whether you’re planning a holiday cocktail night, a casual lunch, or a family dinner, here are some delicious suggestions to complement your meal:
Hearty Sides & Appetizers:
- Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Smokies: A sweet and savory appetizer that’s always a hit.
- Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls: Fluffy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, these are perfect for dipping.
- Cheesy Green Beans: A comforting and rich vegetable side dish.
- Homemade Cranberry Sauce: Offer extra on the side for those who love an extra dollop of tartness.
- Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams: A classic sweet and earthy side that pairs wonderfully with turkey.
- Creamed Corn Casserole: A creamy, comforting dish that adds a touch of sweetness.
- Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole: The iconic holiday side, always a welcomed addition.
- CrockPot Scalloped Potatoes & Ham: A hearty and cheesy potato dish that can easily be made with leftover ham.
Main Dishes (for a larger spread):
- Eggnog French Toast: A festive breakfast or brunch item, great for holiday mornings.
- Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole: A savory, filling dish for breakfast or brunch gatherings.
- Ham & Cheese Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole: Another excellent way to use leftover ham in a delightful breakfast bake.
- CrockPot Turkey: If you need more turkey, this slow cooker method is a lifesaver.
- CrockPot Ham: An easy way to prepare a tender, flavorful ham.
Sweet Endings:
- Eggnog Cookies: Soft, spiced cookies perfect for the holidays.
- Sugared Cranberries: A beautiful and festive garnish or light sweet treat.
- 4 Ingredient Christmas Crack: An addictive and incredibly easy toffee treat.
- Reindeer Chow: A fun, kid-friendly snack mix.
- Grinch Bark: A festive and whimsical chocolate treat.
- Eggnog Cake with Eggnog Glaze: A rich and creamy dessert for eggnog lovers.
Refreshing Drinks:
- Baileys Hot Chocolate: A cozy, boozy beverage perfect for chilly evenings.
- Grinch Jello Shots: Fun and colorful, great for adult holiday parties.
- Cranberry Mimosa: A sparkling, festive drink that’s easy to make.
- Eggnog Coffee: Start your morning with a hint of holiday cheer.
- Boozy Grinch Drink: Another playful, spirited cocktail for celebrations.
Ideal Occasions for Cranberry Turkey Sliders
These delectable sliders aren’t just for the day after Thanksgiving. Their ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing flavors make them perfect for a variety of gatherings and celebrations throughout the fall and winter seasons:
- Thanksgiving Leftovers Feast: The most obvious and perhaps most cherished occasion! These sliders breathe new life into your post-holiday turkey, transforming it into an exciting new meal.
- Holiday Cocktail Parties: Serve them as a hearty appetizer that guests can easily grab and enjoy while mingling. They’re substantial enough to satisfy but small enough to be finger food.
- Christmas Gatherings: Whether it’s a casual family lunch or part of a larger Christmas Eve spread, these sliders fit right in with the festive spirit.
- New Year’s Day Party: Start the new year with delicious comfort food. These sliders are a fantastic addition to any New Year’s Day brunch or casual get-together.
- Game Day Snacks: Their portable nature makes them ideal for serving during sporting events, keeping hungry fans happy without a lot of fuss.
- Casual Weekend Lunches or Dinners: Don’t wait for a holiday! These sliders are simple enough for a satisfying and easy weekend meal with minimal effort.
More Delicious Recipe Inspiration
If you’ve loved transforming your holiday leftovers with these sliders, you’ll be thrilled to explore more culinary adventures. We have a treasure trove of recipes perfect for any occasion, from comforting sides to delightful desserts.
- Side Dishes for Ham: Discover perfect accompaniments for your leftover ham, turning it into another fantastic meal.
- Hot Chocolate Recipes: Indulge in easy and amazing hot chocolate creations, from cozy slow cooker versions to delightful hot cocoa cocktails.
- Easy Dump Cake Recipes: Simple yet satisfying desserts, including both crockpot and oven-baked options, perfect for potlucks and holidays.
- Slow Cooker Thanksgiving Recipes: Maximize your kitchen space and ease your holiday cooking with these convenient crockpot dishes.
- Fall Drink Recipes: Sip on easy and delightful fall cocktails featuring apple cider, cinnamon, pumpkin, and other seasonal favorites.
- Apple Cider Recipes: Explore a variety of delicious apple cider creations, from warming drinks to irresistible desserts.
- Fall Dessert Recipes: Savor the comforting flavors of autumn with our favorite desserts featuring nutmeg, maple syrup, and brown sugar.
- Apple Dessert Recipes: Dive into all the fun and delicious desserts you can create with apples this season.
Don’t forget to check out our extensive collection of copycat recipes, satisfying dessert recipes, and incredibly convenient CrockPot recipes for more culinary inspiration.
Stay connected and never miss a delicious recipe! Follow Tammilee Tips on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for all our latest posts and cooking adventures.
Cranberry and Leftover Turkey Sliders Recipe
Quick and delicious cranberry and leftover turkey sliders recipe! A great way to use holiday leftovers that tastes amazing.
Print Recipe | Rate this Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Servings: 12 sliders
Calories: 240 kcal per serving
Author: Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 3 Cups Turkey (cooked and diced)
- 1 Can Cranberry Sauce
- 1 Cup Mozzarella (shredded)
- 1 ½ Cups Gravy (leftover or prepared packet)
- ½ Cup Butter
- 2 Tablespoons Sesame Seeds (optional)
- 1 dozen Bread Rolls (fresh Hawaiian rolls recommended)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a pot, combine the turkey and gravy. Bring to a gentle boil, then set aside.
- Carefully cut the bread rolls in half horizontally, keeping each roll connected. Set the top half aside.
- Place the bottom portion of the rolls into a parchment-lined 9×13 baking dish.
- Spoon the turkey and gravy mixture evenly over the bottom half of the buns, extending to the edges.
- Spoon the cranberry sauce over the turkey layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top of the cranberry sauce.
- Replace the top halves of the buns.
- Brush the remaining melted butter over the tops of the buns.
- If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds or other garnishes.
- Bake in the oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the buns are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then cut each slider individually and serve warm! Enjoy!
Kitchen Tools
- 9×13 Baking Pan
- Large Pot
- Parchment Paper
- Bread Knife
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Pastry Brush (optional, for butter)
Notes
As each oven is slightly different, keep a close eye on the buns. The main objective is to have the cheese perfectly melted and bubbly, so feel free to remove them once that stage is reached to prevent over-browning or drying out.
Nutrition Facts
Calories from Fat 153
Love this recipe? Follow @TammileeTIps on Pinterest!
Tried this recipe? Mention @TammileeTipsLife when you share a photo on Instagram!
Recipe originally shared on December 11, 2016. Updated October 2020, November 2022.