Thanksgiving Turkey Cranberry Sliders – Sweet, Savory & Melty

When you’re coming off the big feast and there’s still leftover turkey and cranberry sauce, these Thanksgiving Turkey Cranberry Sliders are your cozy, crave-worthy answer.

Imagine soft Hawaiian rolls loaded with juicy turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, melted cheese, all brushed with buttery poppy-seed topping it’s comfort and celebration in every bite. Whether you serve them for a casual post-holiday lunch or bring them to a pot-luck, these sliders are easy, crowd-friendly, and downright delicious.

Add a cozy veggie side like Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta

Serve alongside our sweet & glossy Thanksgiving Glazed Carrots

What Is / Why It’s Special

These sliders take the classic flavors of Thanksgiving turkey, cranberry sauce, sweet rolls and transform them into a handheld, snack-friendly version that’s both fun and satisfying. The Thanksgiving Turkey Cranberry Sliders shine because they:

• Give a fresh spin on leftovers. (Blackberry Babe’s concept)
• Use sweet rolls or Hawaiian rolls which add a soft, warm base and contrast beautifully with the savory turkey and tangy cranberry. (I Heart Eating mentions Hawaiian rolls)
• Add a buttery, seasoned top-topping (mustard + butter + seasonings) which creates golden edges and extra flavor.
• Are versatile: you can swap cheeses, add greens, use deli turkey if needed.
  Because of all that, they’re more than just “leftover sandwiches” they’re a new favorite after the big meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Bread & Base

• 1 package (12-count) Hawaiian rolls or soft dinner slider rolls

Protein & Filling

• ~3 cups cooked turkey, diced or thin-sliced
• 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole-berry or your favorite)

Cheese & Add-Ons

• 6–8 slices Swiss, Havarti, provolone or smoked gouda (choose good melt-ers)

Butter Topping & Seasoning

• 4 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder or dried onion flakes
• ½ teaspoon poppy seeds or “everything bagel seasoning” for crunch
• Salt + pepper to taste

Optional Extra Layers

• A layer of leftover stuffing or mashed potatoes for extra indulgence
• Arugula, spinach or baby greens for brightness

Presentation Finish

• Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme)
• Thinly sliced green apple or arugula for color contrast (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prep the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Slice the rolls horizontally (keep tops attached if possible for easier handling). Place the bottom half of the rolls in a greased 9×13 baking dish.

Step 2 – Layer the Fillings

On the bottom roll layer: spread the turkey evenly, then layer the cheese slices, then dollops of cranberry sauce. If you’re adding greens or leftover stuffing, layer them here too. Place the top halves of the rolls onto the stack.

Step 3 – Brush the Butter Topping

In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion flakes, poppy seeds (or everything bagel seasoning), salt and pepper. Brush this mixture evenly over the top of the rolls. This topping will caramelize and crisp the buns during baking.

Step 4 – Bake & Serve

Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake ~15 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 3–5 minutes until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted. Immediately garnish with fresh herbs (and optional apple/arugula). Cut into individual sliders and serve warm.

Tips / Variations / Why You’ll Love It

• Time-saver tip: Assemble sliders ahead of time and keep refrigerated until baking.
• Substitutions:
  • No turkey? Use deli turkey or shredded chicken.
  • No cranberry sauce? Use a fig jam or apricot chutney for a sweet twist.
  • Cheese swap: Swiss → Havarti → smoked gouda → cheddar.
  • Roll variation: Use pretzel rolls for a savory twist or brioche rolls for richness.
• Variation ideas:
  • Add a thin layer of leftover mashed potatoes or stuffing to the sliders for extra comfort (as mentioned by Blackberry Babe)
  • Add a drizzle of warm gravy or mustard from the side for dipping.
• Why you’ll love it: Beyond being quick and easy, these sliders deliver classic holiday flavors in a fun form. The combination of sweet rolls + tangy cranberry + savory turkey + melty cheese is irresistible.

🎉 Pairing & Dipping Sauce Ideas

To elevate your sliders for a party or game-day spread, consider adding one (or more) dipping sauces or side pairings:

• Creamy mustard-maple dip: Mix ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon maple syrup and a pinch of cayenne.
• Smoky bacon-maple aioli: Blend mayo, crumbled bacon, a splash of maple syrup and paprika.
  These dips add an extra flavor layer and make the sliders feel elevated rather than just casual leftovers. Serve on a platter with the baked sliders and a small bowl of dip for guests to customize their bite.

🎁 Make-Ahead & Freezer-Friendly Strategy

If you’re prepping for a crowd or want to make these ahead, you’re in luck. Assemble the sliders up to Step 2 (fill the rolls and brush the butter topping), cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking.

For make-ahead freezing: assemble fully in a foil-lined tray, then freeze unbaked. When ready to serve, bake from frozen at 375 °F for ~25 minutes, removing foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the top. This strategy gives you a warm, fresh-baked feel with minimal last-minute effort ideal for family gatherings, potlucks or game-day feeding.

FAQs

Conclusion

These Thanksgiving Turkey Cranberry Sliders turn post-holiday leftovers into a fresh, irresistible dish that’s both casual and crowd-pleasing. Warm, melty, and full of familiar flavors, they’re destined to become a favorite in your festive lineup.