Turkey Cranberry Sliders turn leftover turkey and cranberry sauce into warm, melty mini sandwiches. They’re perfect for post-Thanksgiving meals, game day, or any time you want an easy crowd-pleaser.
Servings: 12 sliders
Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
Cuisine: American, Holiday Leftovers
Why Turkey Cranberry Sliders Are a Must-Try
These sliders are the ultimate leftover upgrade. Tender turkey meets sweet-tart cranberry sauce and melted cheese between soft slider buns, all brushed with butter and baked until golden.
They’re ideal for using up Thanksgiving leftovers, but you can also make them with deli turkey any time of year. Their small size makes them perfect for parties, game day snacks, or a quick family dinner.
Ingredients for Turkey Cranberry Sliders
The ingredient list is simple and flexible.
- Leftover turkey, shredded or sliced, works best; rotisserie or deli turkey also fit.
- Cranberry sauce, homemade or store-bought, adds sweetness and moisture.
- Slider buns like Hawaiian rolls or dinner rolls bring softness and slight sweetness.
- Cheese such as cheddar, Swiss, or brie adds richness and melt.
A garlic-herb butter brushed on top makes them extra irresistible.
Step-by-Step Slider Instructions
Assembly is quick; the oven does most of the work.
- Prepare the filling: Mix shredded turkey with a spoonful of cranberry sauce to moisten. Adjust the ratio to your taste.
- Assemble sliders: Slice the slider buns in half horizontally. Place the bottom half in a baking dish, then layer turkey mixture and cheese. Top with the bun lids.
- Add butter topping: Melt butter with a bit of garlic powder and herbs, then brush over the tops of the buns.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake until heated through, then uncover briefly to let the tops turn golden.
Tips for the Best Sliders
These tips ensure moist, flavorful sliders every time.
- Don’t overload with cranberry sauce; too much can make buns soggy.
- Use soft, slightly sweet buns like Hawaiian rolls for best results.
- Add a thin layer of mayo or mustard under the turkey for extra moisture if desired.
- Assemble ahead and refrigerate; just add a few minutes to the bake time.
Variations and Serving Ideas
You can customize these sliders in many ways.
- Try brie, cheddar, or Swiss for different flavor profiles.
- Add arugula, avocado, or caramelized onions for freshness and depth.
- Set up a slider bar with extra cranberry sauce, cheese, and condiments.
- Serve with soup, salad, or fries for a complete meal.
Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Ingredients
- 12 slider buns Hawaiian rolls or dinner rolls
- 2 cups shredded or sliced cooked turkey
- 3/4 cup cranberry sauce
- 6 slices cheese cheddar, Swiss, or brie, halved
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried herbs thyme, rosemary, or parsley
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Slice slider buns in half horizontally. Place the bottom half in the baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix turkey with about 1/2 cup cranberry sauce, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly over the bottom buns.
- Layer cheese slices over the turkey, then place the top buns on.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, herbs, and remaining cranberry sauce. Brush generously over the tops of the buns.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 12–15 minutes, until heated through.
- Remove foil and bake 3–5 minutes more, until tops are golden.
- Let cool slightly, then slice into individual sliders and serve warm.
