If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that brings all the warmth and comfort of the holidays in every bite, this Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining tender turkey, savory stuffing, tangy cranberry sauce, and melty cheese all sandwiched between soft, buttery rolls, these sliders capture the best elements of a Thanksgiving feast in miniature, easy-to-handle form. Whether you’re serving them as a festive appetizer, a fun finger food, or a clever way to reinvent leftovers, these sliders will quickly become a beloved staple every holiday season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but perfectly balanced to create layers of flavor and texture that make the Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Recipe outstanding. Each component plays a vital role—from the soft slider rolls creating the perfect handheld base to the rich butter and spices that add a golden finish with an irresistible aroma.
- 12 slider rolls (Hawaiian or dinner rolls): Choose soft rolls that will hold everything together while soaking in flavors delightfully.
- 2 cups cooked turkey (shredded or sliced): Your leftover roast turkey or freshly cooked turkey adds hearty protein and classic holiday taste.
- 1 cup prepared stuffing: Traditional stuffing brings savory herbs and moisture that pair beautifully with the turkey.
- ½ cup cranberry sauce: Adds a burst of sweetness and tartness to brighten every bite.
- 6 slices provolone or Swiss cheese: Melts perfectly for creamy texture and subtle tang.
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (optional): Spreads richness and keeps sliders moist without overpowering.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted): Brushed on top to create a golden, flavorful crust.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds depth and a gentle kick to the butter glaze.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the butter with savory notes enhancing overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: A touch of earthy herbal aroma that complements turkey wonderfully.
- ½ teaspoon poppy seeds (optional): Offers a delightful crunch and visual appeal when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Rolls
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so everything will cook evenly. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or give it a light grease. Next, slice all your slider rolls horizontally but keep the top and bottom layers intact as whole pieces. Place the bottom half snugly in your baking dish to form a sturdy foundation for all the delicious fillings to come.
Step 2: Layer the Goodies
If you’re using mayonnaise, spread it evenly over the bottom layer of rolls now for some extra luscious moisture. Then, create the first layer with your cooked turkey, spreading it across the rolls for consistent bites. Add the prepared stuffing on top of the turkey, followed by dollops of cranberry sauce to bring that signature holiday tang. Lay the slices of provolone or Swiss cheese over everything before topping with the top halves of the slider rolls.
Step 3: Mix and Brush the Flavorful Glaze
In a small bowl, combine melted butter with Dijon mustard, garlic powder, dried thyme, and optional poppy seeds. Whisk this mixture until it’s smooth and aromatic. Brush this buttery glaze generously over all the roll tops—this is what gives the sliders their irresistible golden crust and amazing aroma during baking.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover your baking dish tightly with foil to keep moisture locked in, then bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the tops of the sliders are golden brown and the cheese has melted beautifully. Once baked, let them cool just a little before slicing into individual sliders and serving warm.
How to Serve Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh pop of color and flavor, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or sage leaves over your sliders before serving. You can also add a small dollop of extra cranberry sauce on the side for guests who love a juicy, tangy accompaniment. These touches not only enhance presentation but also lift the flavor profiles nicely.
Side Dishes
Pair your Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Recipe with classic sides like roasted sweet potato fries, a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette, or creamy mashed potatoes. These sides complement the sliders’ hearty, savory qualities without overwhelming them, making your meal feel well-rounded and delightful.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or gathering, serve the sliders on a large wooden board or festive platter. Add small flags or handwritten name tags to make things playful and inviting. Alternatively, place the sliders in mini cupcake liners for less mess and easier handling. These fun ideas make your sliders not just delicious but a centerpiece you’ll be proud to share.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have extra Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Recipe servings, store them tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Placing them in an airtight container helps preserve freshness, and the flavors only deepen as they sit, making them great for quick lunches or snacks.
Freezing
To freeze for longer storage, wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap, then place all of them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your stored Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Recipe in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can cover them loosely with foil to prevent the tops from browning too much during reheating. A quick microwave option works too, but the oven method keeps the sliders from getting soggy.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that works perfectly in this recipe, especially if you want to enjoy Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Recipe any time of year without waiting for the holidays.
Is it better to use Hawaiian rolls or traditional dinner rolls?
Both are delicious choices. Hawaiian rolls add a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cranberry sauce, while dinner rolls offer a more neutral, soft texture. It’s all about your personal preference.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders in the baking dish and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Just bring them to room temperature before placing them in the oven for even cooking.
How spicy is this Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Recipe?
It’s very mild and family-friendly, with no spicy ingredients included. The Dijon mustard offers a gentle tang without heat, making these sliders approachable for all taste buds.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can omit the cheese and use a dairy-free butter substitute for the glaze. The sliders will still be flavorful and moist, perfect for those with dairy sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
There you have it: a vibrant and heartwarming Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Recipe that’s easy to prepare, irresistibly tasty, and sure to impress everyone gathered around your table. Whether you’re using leftover turkey or creating these sliders from scratch, they bring a joyous little twist to holiday favorites that everyone will adore. I can’t wait for you to try them and make them a cherished part of your season!
Print
Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
These Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders are a delicious way to enjoy your holiday leftovers or create a festive appetizer year-round. Layered with tender turkey, savory stuffing, tangy cranberry sauce, and melted cheese on soft slider rolls, these sliders are brushed with a flavorful butter-mustard topping and baked until golden. Perfect for family gatherings or casual parties, they combine classic holiday flavors in an easy-to-eat handheld treat.
Ingredients
Sliders
- 12 slider rolls (Hawaiian or dinner rolls)
- 2 cups cooked turkey (shredded or sliced)
- 1 cup prepared stuffing
- ½ cup cranberry sauce
- 6 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (optional)
Butter Topping
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Rolls: Slice the entire pack of slider rolls in half horizontally, keeping the top and bottom halves intact as one piece each. Place the bottom half in the baking dish as the base layer.
- Assemble Layers: Optionally spread mayonnaise evenly over the bottom slider rolls. Then layer the cooked turkey evenly over the rolls, followed by spreading the prepared stuffing, cranberry sauce, and finally topping with slices of provolone or Swiss cheese.
- Add Top Rolls: Place the top half of the slider rolls over the layered ingredients, covering them completely.
- Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, dried thyme, and poppy seeds (if using). Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the slider rolls to add flavor and help with browning.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes to warm through and melt the cheese.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until the tops are golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Cut into individual sliders and serve warm for an easy and flavorful appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Great for using Thanksgiving leftovers to create a new meal.
- Substitute rotisserie chicken and store-bought stuffing for a year-round version.
- Mayonnaise is optional but adds moisture and flavor to the sliders.
- Use Hawaiian rolls for a slightly sweeter slider or dinner rolls for a more traditional taste.
- Covering with foil during initial baking helps melt the cheese without drying out the rolls.
