As I stood in my kitchen sifting through the remains of our Thanksgiving feast, an idea sparked—why not revive those leftovers into something magical? Enter my Leftover Turkey Sliders, where savory turkey collides with gooey Swiss cheese and a zing of cranberry sauce, all snugly nestled in sweet, soft rolls. These sliders aren’t just a clever way to repurpose your holiday leftovers; they’re a comforting, quick weeknight dinner that’ll make everyone feel right at home. Plus, they’re make-ahead friendly, so you can assemble them in no time and pop them in the oven for an effortless family feast. Curious about how to whip up these delightful bites? Let’s dive into the delightful world of sliders!

Why are Leftover Turkey Sliders a Winner?

Comfort Food Boost: These sliders turn holiday leftovers into a scrumptious meal that feels special.
Easy Preparation: With just a few steps, you can assemble these sliders effortlessly.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet-tart cranberry sauce pairs perfectly with savory turkey and melted Swiss cheese.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep them the night before to save time on busy weeknights!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a family dinner or potluck, these sliders will have everyone coming back for seconds! For a great side, consider serving with Chicken Bacon Sliders or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Leftover Turkey Sliders Ingredients

For the Sliders
• Sweet Rolls – Soft and slightly sweet, these rolls provide a tender, fluffy foundation for your turkey delight.
• Cooked Turkey – Use your leftover Thanksgiving turkey to transform your feast into flavorful sliders.
• Cranberry Sauce – Adds a sweet-tart pop that perfectly balances the richness of the turkey and cheese.
• Swiss Cheese – Melts beautifully, blending a creamy, nutty flavor that ties all the ingredients together.

For the Butter Mixture
• Butter (4 tablespoons, melted) – Enhances moisture and richness, making every bite delectable.
• Mustard (1 teaspoon yellow or Dijon) – Offers a hint of tang that complements the sliders splendidly.
• Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon) – Provides a warm depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• Salt (⅛ teaspoon) – Essential for amplifying the flavors in every mouthful.
• Dehydrated Onion (optional, ½ teaspoon) – Introduces a savory onion flavor and texture that rounds out the filling.

Enjoy making your tasty Leftover Turkey Sliders, and don’t forget to get creative with variations to suit your family’s tastes!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Leftover Turkey Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). While the oven warms up, line a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick foil or a generous coat of non-stick spray to ensure your Leftover Turkey Sliders come out easily without sticking. This initial step sets the stage for a perfect bake.

Step 2: Assemble the Bottom Half
Next, take your sweet rolls and slice them in half horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms connected. Arrange the bottom halves snugly in the prepared baking dish, creating a sturdy base. This makes it easier to load them with all your delicious ingredients in the next step, so ensure they fit well in the dish!

Step 3: Layer the Filling
Now it’s time to fill those sweet rolls! Spread diced or sliced leftover turkey evenly over the bottom halves, making sure every slider has a generous portion. Then, dollop cranberry sauce on top of the turkey to add a delightful sweet-tart flavor. Finally, layer Swiss cheese over the cranberry sauce, covering as much surface area as possible for that melty goodness.

Step 4: Cover with the Top Half
Carefully place the top halves of the sweet rolls back on top of your layered filling, creating a beautiful sandwich structure. Gently press down to ensure all the ingredients are snugly tucked inside, which helps the sliders stay together during baking and keeps flavors melded beautifully.

Step 5: Prepare the Butter Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and dehydrated onion (if using). Whisk these ingredients together until well blended. This mixture will add rich flavor and moisture to your sliders, so don’t skip this vital step as you prepare to drizzle it all over those tasty buns.

Step 6: Drizzle and Bake
Now, take the butter mixture and drizzle it evenly over the top of the sliders, ensuring every slider gets a touch of that savory goodness. Cover the dish tightly with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes to heat everything through, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 3 minutes until the tops are golden brown and slightly crisp.

Step 7: Let Cool and Serve
Once finished baking, remove your Leftover Turkey Sliders from the oven and let them cool for a minute. This brief resting time allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. Cut into individual sliders and serve warm, allowing everyone to enjoy the melty turkey and cheese goodness straight out of the oven!

Make Ahead Options

These Leftover Turkey Sliders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance, which is a real time-saver for busy weeknights. Simply prepare the sliders as directed, but instead of baking right away, cover the assembled dish with foil and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven following the baking instructions. To maintain quality, ensure the sliders are tightly covered to prevent them from drying out. Plus, you can enjoy the same gooey, golden-brown goodness with minimal fuss—just bake until it’s hot and melty, and your family will be thrilled!

How to Store and Freeze Leftover Turkey Sliders

Fridge: Store any leftover Turkey Sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and tasty.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual sliders in foil and freeze. They can last up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 325°F for 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.

Make-Ahead: Assemble sliders the night before and keep them in the fridge, covered, for a quick weeknight meal. Bake them fresh before serving!

Leftover Turkey Sliders Variations

Feel free to get creative with these sliders and make them your own!

Cheese Swap: Use sharp cheddar or creamy mozzarella instead of Swiss for a fun flavor twist. Both cheese variations melt beautifully, adding a different richness to the sliders.
Sauce Upgrade: Ditch the cranberry sauce in favor of barbecue sauce or spicy mustard to give your sliders a zesty kick. These swaps can elevate the taste profile and bring exciting new textures to each bite.
Fresh Add-Ins: Add avocado slices or fresh spinach to your sliders for a healthy boost. Not only do they add flavor, but they also bring a lovely freshness that complements the savory turkey.
Creamy Touch: Spread cream cheese or herbed goat cheese on the rolls for an extra layer of creaminess. This fun twist adds a delightful tang that pairs well with the other ingredients.
Crunch Factor: Top the sliders with crispy fried onions or crushed potato chips before baking to add a delicious crunch. This would be a fantastic way to elevate the textures in your meal!
Herbed Boost: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the turkey for a fragrant flavor profile that adds depth and freshness. It’s an excellent way to make every bite a sensory experience!
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce if you crave some heat. This zing will give the sliders an unexpected and exciting edge that spice lovers will adore!
Veggie Delight: Layer in thin slices of roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms for a gourmet flair. These tender veggies add flavor and are a great way to jazz up your sliders!

Make sure to check out my Chicken Bacon Sliders for another delightful recipe to enjoy alongside these Leftover Turkey Sliders. Enjoy customizing your delicious meal!

What to Serve with Leftover Turkey Sliders

Complement your savory creation with delicious sides and drinks that will elevate your meal experience.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness adds a delightful contrast to the salty turkey and cheese, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Fresh Green Salad: A light, vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the sliders.
Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: These soft and buttery sticks provide a comforting, familiar taste that pairs perfectly with the gooey texture of the sliders.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness and crispiness create a fantastic balance against the sweet rolls and savory fillings.
Homemade Coleslaw: The creamy crunch of coleslaw adds a refreshing bite, enhancing the overall flavor dynamic of your meal.
Cranberry Lemonade: A sweet-tart beverage echoes the cranberry flavors in the sliders while keeping everyone hydrated and happy.
Apple Tart: End your meal on a sweet note with a warm apple tart, its spices harmonizing beautifully with your sliders while offering delightful warmth.
Potato Chips: A simple side, the crunch of homemade or store-bought chips provides that satisfying texture contrast to the soft sliders.
Fruit Salad: A fresh, colorful medley of seasonal fruits serves as a light, refreshing dessert that balances the heavier components of the dinner.

Tips for the Best Leftover Turkey Sliders

Fresh Turkey: Use fresh leftover turkey for the best flavor; older turkey may dry out and lose taste.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy twist that elevates your turkey recipe.
Topping Crunch: Consider adding crispy fried onions on top before baking to give your sliders an exciting crunch.
Easy Assembly: To save time, prepare the sliders the night before and bake them just before mealtime for an easy weeknight dinner.
Monitor Baking: Keep an eye on the sliders during the last few minutes to avoid over-baking, which can dry out the filling.

Leftover Turkey Sliders Recipe FAQs

What kind of sweet rolls should I use for the sliders?
Absolutely! I recommend using soft, slightly sweet dinner rolls like Hawaiian rolls for the best flavor and texture. These rolls create a tender base that perfectly complements the savory turkey and melty cheese, making each bite delightful.

How should I store leftover turkey sliders?
You can store any leftover Turkey Sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent moisture loss. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat covered with foil at 325°F for about 10-15 minutes to regain that gooey, melty goodness.

Can I freeze leftover turkey sliders?
Yes, you can! For longer storage, wrap individual sliders in foil and freeze. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to indulge again, preheat the oven to 325°F and reheat from frozen, covered with foil, for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.

What if my sliders come out too dry?
Very! If your sliders turn out dry, it might be due to overbaking or using turkey that’s been in the fridge for a while. To avoid this, keep an eye on them during baking around the 15-minute mark, especially when you remove the foil, as they can quickly go from golden to overdone. If you want to add moisture, consider drizzling a little extra melted butter on top before serving.

Are these sliders suitable for kids and those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! These Leftover Turkey Sliders are great for kids, and you can easily customize them to accommodate dietary preferences. If there are allergies to cheese or mustard, simply omit those ingredients or substitute with dairy-free cheese and a suitable condiment. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free rolls and ensure your turkey and sauces are free of gluten ingredients.

Can I make the sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can! One of the best parts about this recipe is its make-ahead quality. You can assemble the sliders the night before and store them covered in the fridge. Just pop them in the oven the next day and they’ll be ready to enjoy without any fuss. This method saves time on busy weeknights, ensuring a delicious meal is always just a bake away!