Best Turkey Cranberry Sliders Recipe for the Holidays

Table of Contents

There’s something magical about transforming Thanksgiving leftovers into something entirely new and exciting. Turkey Cranberry Sliders are the perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can create an unforgettable dish that’s both nostalgic and fresh. These mini turkey cranberry sandwiches pack all the flavors of your favorite holiday meal into perfectly portable, crowd-pleasing bites that everyone will love.

Whether you’re hosting a post-Thanksgiving gathering, planning a festive holiday party, or simply looking for a quick and delicious way to use leftover turkey, these holiday turkey sliders are your answer. They’re incredibly easy to assemble, bursting with sweet and savory flavors, and can be customized to suit any taste preference. The combination of tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and soft slider buns creates a harmony of textures and tastes that will have your guests coming back for seconds.

Recipe Information

Difficulty: Easy
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 sliders (serves 6-8 people)
Estimated Cost: Affordable

Ingredients for Turkey Cranberry Sliders

For the Sliders:

• 12 slider buns (preferably Hawaiian rolls or soft dinner rolls)
• 1 pound cooked turkey breast, sliced or shredded
• 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
• 6 slices Swiss cheese or provolone cheese
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach or arugula
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

For the Butter Topping:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)

Optional Additions:

• 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened

Equipment and Utensils Required

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Sharp serrated knife
• Small mixing bowl
• Pastry brush
• Aluminum foil
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Recipe Preparation: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This ensures your turkey cranberry slider buns won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Slice the Slider Buns

Using a sharp serrated knife, carefully slice the entire sheet of slider buns horizontally, keeping the bottom and top connected as one piece. Place the bottom half in your prepared baking dish. This technique keeps everything together and makes assembly much faster.

Step 3: Create the Sauce Layer

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Spread this mixture evenly over the bottom layer of buns. This creamy base adds moisture and a subtle tang that complements the other flavors perfectly.

Step 4: Layer the Turkey

Arrange the sliced or shredded turkey evenly across the bottom buns. Make sure to distribute it uniformly so every slider gets a generous portion. If using leftover turkey, gently warm it first for the best texture and flavor.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Place the Swiss or provolone cheese slices over the turkey layer. The cheese acts as a delicious barrier and melts beautifully when baked, creating that irresistible gooey texture everyone loves in mini turkey cranberry sandwiches.

Step 6: Spread the Cranberry Sauce

Generously spread the cranberry sauce over the cheese layer. Don’t be shy with the cranberry sauce—it’s the star ingredient that makes these Thanksgiving sliders so special. The sweet-tart flavor balances perfectly with the savory turkey and cheese.

Step 7: Add Fresh Greens

Layer the fresh baby spinach or arugula on top of the cranberry sauce. The greens add a fresh, crisp element and a pop of color that makes these sliders even more appealing. The slight bitterness of the greens also helps balance the sweetness of the cranberry.

Step 8: Top with the Upper Buns

Carefully place the top half of the slider buns over all the layers. Press down gently to compact everything together. This helps the sliders hold their shape when you cut them later.

Step 9: Prepare the Butter Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, garlic powder, dried parsley, onion powder, black pepper, and honey (if using). This aromatic butter mixture will create a golden, flavorful crust on top of your sliders.

Step 10: Brush and Bake

Using a pastry brush, generously brush the butter mixture over the top of the buns, making sure to cover every inch. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.

Step 11: Rest and Slice

Remove the sliders from the oven and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This resting time allows the cheese to set slightly, making the sliders easier to cut and serve. Use a sharp knife to cut along the original slider bun lines, creating individual portions.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the turkey cranberry slider buns to a serving platter and serve immediately while they’re warm and the cheese is perfectly melted. These holiday turkey sliders are best enjoyed fresh from the oven!

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

Making Ahead

These sliders are perfect for meal prep! Assemble them completely up to step 8, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, add the butter topping and bake as directed, adding 5 extra minutes to the covered baking time if coming straight from the refrigerator.

Bread Selection Matters

Hawaiian sweet rolls are the classic choice for these mini turkey cranberry sandwiches because their subtle sweetness pairs wonderfully with the tangy cranberry sauce. However, you can use any soft dinner rolls, potato rolls, or even brioche buns for a richer flavor.

Customizing Your Sliders

Make it spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot honey for a kick.
Go gourmet: Use brie cheese instead of Swiss and add caramelized onions.
Add crunch: Include stuffing or crispy fried onions as an additional layer.
Boost the flavor: Mix cream cheese with the cranberry sauce for an extra creamy texture.

Using Fresh vs. Leftover Turkey

While these sliders are perfect for Thanksgiving leftovers, you can also make them with freshly roasted turkey breast, deli turkey, or even rotisserie chicken. If using deli meat, opt for thick-cut turkey for the best texture.

Perfect Cranberry Sauce Consistency

If your cranberry sauce is too thick, warm it slightly and stir in a tablespoon of orange juice to make it more spreadable. If it’s too runny, simmer it on the stovetop for a few minutes to reduce and thicken.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual sliders in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or warm them in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. While these sliders can be frozen, the texture of the lettuce will suffer, so it’s best to freeze them without the greens and add fresh spinach when reheating.

Recipe Variations

Thanksgiving Leftovers Sliders Supreme

Layer stuffing, mashed potatoes, and gravy alongside the turkey and cranberry for the ultimate leftover sandwich experience.

Vegetarian Version

Replace the turkey with thick slices of roasted butternut squash or portobello mushrooms, and use vegetable-based cheese alternatives.

Southern-Style Turkey Sliders

Add a layer of creamy coleslaw and replace the Swiss cheese with sharp cheddar for a Southern twist.

Sweet and Spicy Variation

Mix the cranberry sauce with a tablespoon of sriracha or chipotle peppers in adobo for a sweet-heat combination.

What to Serve with Turkey Cranberry Sliders

These versatile sliders pair beautifully with many side dishes. For a complete meal, consider serving them with glazed carrots, which add a sweet and colorful complement to the savory sliders. A warm bowl of cheddar garlic herb potato soup makes an excellent pairing for a cozy fall or winter meal.

For a lighter option, serve alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette, sweet potato fries, or roasted Brussels sprouts. If you’re looking for something heartier, try pairing them with salsa verde chicken and rice skillet for a festive spread.

Other excellent side dish options include:

• Classic potato chips or kettle chips
• Pickles and olives
• Fruit salad with seasonal berries
• Macaroni and cheese
• Green bean casserole
• Roasted root vegetables

Nutrition Information (Per Slider)

• Calories: 285
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 420mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.

Why These Turkey Cranberry Sliders Work for Every Occasion

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. These mini turkey cranberry sandwiches are perfect for:

Holiday Gatherings: They’re an excellent way to use Thanksgiving leftovers and keep the holiday spirit going through the weekend.

Game Day: Small, handheld, and packed with flavor—these sliders are ideal for football parties and casual get-togethers.

Potlucks and Parties: They transport well and can be served at room temperature if needed, making them a host’s dream.

Weeknight Dinners: When assembled ahead and baked quickly, these sliders provide a satisfying meal in under 40 minutes.

Meal Prep: Make a double batch on Sunday and enjoy quick lunches throughout the week.

The combination of sweet cranberry sauce, savory turkey, melted cheese, and buttery toasted buns creates a flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults. The small size makes them less intimidating for picky eaters while still being substantial enough to satisfy hungry appetites.

The Secret to Perfect Slider Texture

One of the most important aspects of creating exceptional turkey cranberry slider buns is achieving the right texture balance. The buns should be soft and slightly sweet on the inside while developing a golden, buttery crust on the outside. The key is in the butter topping and the two-stage baking process.

Baking covered first allows the cheese to melt thoroughly and the flavors to meld together without over-browning the tops. Removing the foil for the final few minutes creates that perfect golden crust that adds textural contrast to every bite. The garlic and herb butter not only adds flavor but also creates a protective layer that keeps the buns from drying out.

Making These Sliders Your Own

While this recipe provides a solid foundation, don’t be afraid to experiment and make these holiday turkey sliders your own. Every family has their own Thanksgiving traditions and flavor preferences, and this recipe is flexible enough to accommodate them all.

Some families swear by adding a layer of stuffing, while others prefer keeping things simple. Some like a generous helping of mayonnaise, while others prefer a lighter touch. The beauty of this recipe is that it serves as a template that you can adjust based on your personal preferences and what you have available in your kitchen.

Consider the ingredients you already love from your holiday table and find ways to incorporate them. Leftover herbs like sage, thyme, or rosemary can be chopped and added to the butter mixture. A bit of leftover gravy can be drizzled over the turkey layer. Even mashed sweet potatoes can be spread on the buns for an unexpected but delicious addition.

Conclusion

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are more than just a recipe—they’re a celebration of holiday flavors in a perfectly portable package. Whether you’re using Thanksgiving leftovers or creating them from scratch, these mini turkey cranberry sandwiches deliver big on taste while requiring minimal effort. The combination of sweet, savory, tangy, and buttery flavors makes every bite a delight.

From casual family dinners to elegant holiday gatherings, these sliders adapt to any occasion with ease. They’re proof that the best recipes are often the simplest ones—taking familiar ingredients and combining them in a way that feels both comforting and exciting.

Have you tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and let me know how your Turkey Cranberry Sliders turned out! Share your variations, tips, and photos. I’d love to hear which additions became your family favorites. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who love easy, delicious holiday cooking!

For more delicious recipe inspiration and cooking ideas, follow me on Pinterest at https://fr.pinterest.com/hanaeats2/ where I share seasonal recipes, cooking tips, and meal planning ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Print