These Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders bring together tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and melty cheese in soft, pull-apart rolls. I love serving them when Thanksgiving dinner leaves me with extra turkey and I want something warm, easy, and a little different the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
These sliders are quick to assemble, easy to share, and full of familiar holiday flavors. A buttery, savory topping gives the rolls a golden finish, while cranberry sauce adds a bright contrast to the turkey and cheese. They work just as well for a casual dinner as they do for game day or a relaxed family lunch.
Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders Ingredients & Substitutions
- 12 soft dinner rolls, kept connected if they come in a slab
- 3 cups cooked turkey, sliced or shredded
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 8 slices Swiss cheese or provolone
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, optional
Use your favorite cranberry sauce, homemade or store-bought. Cheddar or mozzarella can stand in for Swiss or provolone. If you prefer a sweeter topping, use a little less Dijon, or leave it out.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
1. Prepare the rolls
Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. Slice the connected rolls horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms intact as two slabs, then place the bottom half in the dish.
2. Add the fillings
Spread the Dijon mustard over the cut side of the bottom rolls. Arrange the turkey evenly on top, spoon over the cranberry sauce, and layer on the cheese. Set the top slab of rolls in place.
3. Add the buttery topping
Stir the melted butter with the poppy seeds and garlic powder. Brush the mixture over the tops of the rolls. Sprinkle with parsley if using.
4. Bake until warm and melty
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, until the tops are lightly golden and the cheese has melted. Rest for a few minutes, then separate the sliders and serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Keep the rolls connected while slicing so they are easier to fill and bake evenly.
- If the turkey is chilled, warm it slightly before assembling for more evenly heated sliders.
- Spread the cranberry sauce in an even layer, but avoid using so much that the rolls become soggy.
- Covering the dish for the first part of baking helps warm the centers without overbrowning the tops.
Variations of Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
For a little extra savory flavor, add sautéed onions or a handful of baby spinach. Swap the Swiss for sharp cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella. For a crisp, smoky note, sprinkle a little smoked paprika into the melted butter. You can also use sliced rolls individually if that is what you have on hand, then arrange them snugly in the baking dish.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Serve these sliders with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of soup for an easy meal. Sweet potato fries, crisp apple slices, and a small dish of extra cranberry sauce are also lovely alongside them. For a holiday-inspired spread, add leftover stuffing and green beans.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerate leftover sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them covered in a 325°F (165°C) oven until warmed through, about 10 to 15 minutes. For a single slider, microwave it in short intervals, though the oven keeps the rolls from getting too soft. For the best texture, assemble just before baking rather than freezing the filled rolls.
Memories Made Around the Table
I always think the best holiday meals keep going after the main event. Turning extra turkey into a tray of warm sliders makes the kitchen feel lively again, and everyone can grab one while catching up around the table. I like to set out extra cranberry sauce so each person can add a little more to their own.
FAQs
Can I make these sliders ahead?
Yes. Assemble the rolls and fillings in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 4 hours. Mix and brush on the butter topping just before baking. If baking straight from the refrigerator, allow a few extra minutes in the oven.
Can I use deli turkey instead of cooked turkey?
Yes. Sliced deli turkey works well. Layer it evenly over the rolls, and keep an eye on the baking time so the sandwiches are heated through without drying out.
What cranberry sauce works best?
Both whole-berry and smooth cranberry sauce work. Whole-berry sauce adds little bursts of fruit, while smooth sauce spreads easily across the turkey.
How do I keep the bottoms from getting soggy?
Use a moderate layer of cranberry sauce and avoid adding extra liquid to the filling. Baking the assembled sliders soon after layering also helps the rolls stay tender rather than soggy.
Final Thoughts
Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders are an easy, comforting way to give Thanksgiving extras a fresh start. With soft rolls, savory turkey, bright cranberry sauce, and gooey cheese, they make a meal that is simple to share and enjoy.
Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Equipment
- 1 Baking Dish
- 1 Oven
Ingredients
- 12 soft dinner rolls kept connected if they come in a slab
- 3 cups cooked turkey sliced or shredded
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 8 slices Swiss cheese or provolone
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped; optional
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. Slice the connected rolls horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms intact as two slabs, then place the bottom half in the dish.
- Spread the Dijon mustard over the cut side of the bottom rolls. Arrange the turkey evenly on top, spoon over the cranberry sauce, and layer on the cheese. Set the top slab of rolls in place.
- Stir the melted butter with the poppy seeds and garlic powder. Brush the mixture over the tops of the rolls. Sprinkle with parsley if using.
- Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, until the tops are lightly golden and the cheese has melted. Rest for a few minutes, then separate the sliders and serve warm.