Introduction to Turkey Cranberry Sliders | Easy Thanksgiving Leftovers Recipe
Ah, Thanksgiving! A time for family, friends, and, of course, a feast that leaves us with a mountain of leftovers. If you’re like me, you want to savor those delicious flavors without the hassle. That’s where Turkey Cranberry Sliders come in! This easy Thanksgiving leftovers recipe transforms your turkey and cranberry sauce into a delightful treat. It’s a quick solution for busy days, perfect for impressing loved ones or simply enjoying a cozy night in. Trust me, these sliders will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Turkey Cranberry Sliders | Easy Thanksgiving Leftovers Recipe
These Turkey Cranberry Sliders are a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. The combination of savory turkey, sweet cranberry sauce, and gooey cheese creates a flavor explosion that will delight your taste buds. Plus, they’re perfect for using up those Thanksgiving leftovers, making your life a little easier and a lot tastier!
Ingredients for Turkey Cranberry Sliders | Easy Thanksgiving Leftovers Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these scrumptious Turkey Cranberry Sliders. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cooked turkey: Shredded turkey is the star of the show. Use leftovers from your Thanksgiving feast or rotisserie turkey for convenience.
- Cranberry sauce: This sweet and tangy sauce adds a burst of flavor. You can use homemade or store-bought, whichever you prefer!
- Swiss cheese: Shredded Swiss cheese melts beautifully, adding creaminess. Feel free to swap it for cheddar or provolone if you like.
- Slider buns: These little buns are perfect for holding all the deliciousness. Look for soft, fluffy options, or try whole grain for a healthier twist.
- Butter: Melted butter gives the sliders a golden, crispy top. You can use olive oil as a lighter alternative.
- Garlic powder: This adds a savory depth to the flavor. Fresh minced garlic works too if you want a stronger kick.
- Onion powder: A sprinkle of onion powder enhances the overall taste. You can substitute with finely chopped onions if you prefer.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Turkey Cranberry Sliders | Easy Thanksgiving Leftovers Recipe
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making these delightful Turkey Cranberry Sliders! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even cooking. You want those sliders to bake perfectly, with a golden crust and melted cheese.
Step 2: Mix Turkey and Cranberry Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey and cranberry sauce. Use a spatula to mix them until they’re well blended. This step is where the magic happens! The sweet and savory flavors meld together, creating a mouthwatering filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Slider Buns
Next, slice the slider buns in half. Place the bottom halves in a baking dish, making sure they fit snugly. This is where all the deliciousness will be layered, so arrange them carefully!
Step 4: Layer the Turkey Mixture
Now, take that turkey and cranberry mixture and layer it generously over the bottom halves of the buns. Spread it evenly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Trust me, your family will thank you for this step!
Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the turkey mixture. Cheese is the glue that holds everything together, adding creaminess and richness. Make sure to cover the turkey evenly for that gooey goodness!
Step 6: Assemble the Sliders
Carefully place the top halves of the buns on the sliders. Press down gently to help everything stick together. This is the moment when your sliders start to take shape, and it’s looking delicious already!
Step 7: Prepare the Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and onion powder. This mixture will give your sliders a flavorful, crispy top. Brush it generously over the top of the buns, making sure every inch is covered.
Step 8: Bake the Sliders
Finally, pop the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are golden brown. Keep an eye on them! You want that perfect balance of crispy and gooey.
Once they’re done, remove the sliders from the oven, slice them, and serve warm. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your Turkey Cranberry Sliders!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh turkey for the best flavor, but leftovers work perfectly too!
- Don’t skip the butter mixture; it adds a delicious crunch to the sliders.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings like lettuce or mustard.
- For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the turkey mixture.
- Make these sliders ahead of time and bake just before serving for easy entertaining!
Equipment Needed for Turkey Cranberry Sliders | Easy Thanksgiving Leftovers Recipe
- Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish works great, but any oven-safe dish will do.
- Mixing bowl: Use a large bowl for combining ingredients; a medium bowl can work too.
- Spatula: A rubber spatula is perfect for mixing and spreading the turkey mixture.
- Brush: A pastry brush helps apply the butter mixture evenly; a spoon can work in a pinch.
- Knife: A sharp knife is essential for slicing the slider buns.
Variations of Turkey Cranberry Sliders
- Spicy Sliders: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the turkey mixture for a fiery kick.
- Herbed Sliders: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary with the turkey for an aromatic twist.
- Cheese Swap: Try different cheeses like sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute turkey with roasted vegetables or a plant-based protein for a meatless version.
- Whole Wheat Buns: Use whole wheat slider buns for a healthier alternative that adds a nutty flavor.
- Fruit Additions: Incorporate sliced apples or pears into the turkey mixture for a sweet crunch.
Serving Suggestions for Turkey Cranberry Sliders | Easy Thanksgiving Leftovers Recipe
- Side Salads: Pair with a crisp green salad or a tangy coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
- Chips: Serve with kettle-cooked potato chips or sweet potato fries for a satisfying crunch.
- Drinks: Complement with a light white wine or sparkling cider for a festive touch.
- Presentation: Arrange sliders on a platter with fresh herbs for a beautiful display.
FAQs about Turkey Cranberry Sliders | Easy Thanksgiving Leftovers Recipe
Can I make Turkey Cranberry Sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sliders in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake them right before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
What can I substitute for turkey in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, roasted vegetables or a plant-based protein work wonderfully. You can also use chicken or ham if you have those leftovers on hand!
How do I store leftover sliders?
Store any leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days, making for a quick snack or lunch option!
Can I freeze these sliders?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled sliders before baking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What sides pair well with Turkey Cranberry Sliders?
These sliders are delicious with a side of crisp salad, sweet potato fries, or even a warm bowl of soup. They make for a perfect, cozy meal!
Final Thoughts on Turkey Cranberry Sliders | Easy Thanksgiving Leftovers Recipe
Making Turkey Cranberry Sliders is more than just a way to use up leftovers; it’s about creating a warm, comforting meal that brings everyone together. The blend of savory turkey, sweet cranberry sauce, and melted cheese creates a delightful harmony of flavors that will have your family raving. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of loved ones. So, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy gathering, these sliders are sure to bring joy to your table!
Print
Turkey Cranberry Sliders: A Simple Way to Enjoy Leftovers!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Turkey Cranberry Sliders are a delicious and easy way to enjoy Thanksgiving leftovers, combining turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese on slider buns.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 12 slider buns
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the shredded turkey and cranberry sauce until well combined.
- Slice the slider buns in half and place the bottom halves in a baking dish.
- Layer the turkey mixture on the bottom halves of the buns.
- Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the turkey mixture.
- Place the top halves of the buns on the sliders.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, and onion powder. Brush this mixture over the top of the buns.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, slice, and serve warm.
Notes
- Feel free to add other toppings like lettuce or mustard for extra flavor.
- These sliders can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg