Turkey Cranberry Sliders – Easy Leftover Turkey Recipe

There’s something downright magical about the days after a big holiday meal. You know the feeling—you’re in comfy clothes, maybe still recovering from hosting duties or enjoying the peace and quiet after the family chaos. The fridge is packed to the brim with leftovers, and while a reheated plate of turkey and sides is nice, there’s something so satisfying about turning those leftovers into a brand-new meal. That’s exactly where these Turkey Cranberry Sliders shine.

These little sandwiches are the ultimate post-holiday comfort food. They’re warm, gooey, sweet, savory, and incredibly easy to make. Everything you love about a classic holiday meal—think turkey, gravy, and cranberry sauce—is nestled between soft, buttery rolls, then baked until the cheese melts and the tops are golden brown. It’s the kind of thing that brings the whole family back to the table, even when you think everyone’s officially “done” with turkey.

I first made these sliders the day after a particularly big Thanksgiving, when we were hosting both sides of the family. I had way too much turkey, a full container of untouched cranberry sauce, and no energy to cook anything elaborate. I remembered something I saw online about sliders and thought, “Let’s wing it.” I layered everything up, popped it in the oven, and within 15 minutes, the kitchen smelled amazing. By the time I brought them to the table, everyone had gathered around again, plates in hand. It was one of those cozy, unplanned meals that just hits the spot.

Now, I make these sliders every year without fail. They’ve become part of our post-holiday tradition, and I can promise you—they’re worth making even if you didn’t host the holiday dinner. Just grab some leftover turkey (or even rotisserie chicken), and let’s turn it into something irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Turkey Cranberry Sliders Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to love this recipe, but let’s start with the most important: it’s incredibly simple. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ve got a dish that looks and tastes like you put way more effort into it than you actually did. These sliders are perfect for busy days when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, yet still want something satisfying and homey.

Another reason this recipe stands out is how family-friendly it is. Kids love the soft rolls and gooey cheese, while adults appreciate the cozy flavor combo that feels nostalgic but fresh. It’s ideal for casual gatherings, lazy weekends, or even game day snacking. You can make a big batch in one go, and they’re always a hit—there’s rarely any leftovers of these leftovers.

Let’s talk flavor. The turkey is tender and flavorful, especially when it’s simmered gently in warm gravy. The cranberry sauce brings just the right amount of sweetness and a touch of tartness, balancing the richness of the meat and cheese. And then there’s the mozzarella—melty, stretchy, creamy, and the perfect neutral cheese to tie everything together without overpowering it.

And don’t forget the texture. The buttery rolls get slightly crisp on top while staying soft and pillowy underneath. If you add sesame seeds, you get a gentle crunch with each bite. It’s a small detail, but it makes the sliders feel a bit more special.

Finally, there’s the comfort factor. These sliders are warm, cheesy, flavorful, and just plain satisfying. They’re not trying to be fancy—they’re here to deliver that “mmm, this is so good” kind of feeling. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just making something cozy for yourself, this recipe always delivers.

Health Benefits of these Turkey Cranberry Sliders

While sliders might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think “healthy,” these Turkey Cranberry Sliders have a few surprising nutritional benefits that make them more wholesome than you’d expect.

First, let’s talk turkey. Turkey is a lean source of protein, especially if you’re using white meat like breast. It’s lower in fat than red meat and provides essential nutrients like iron, zinc, potassium, and B vitamins—especially niacin and B6, which support metabolism and energy production. If you’re working with leftover roasted or grilled turkey that hasn’t been drenched in butter, you’re starting with a pretty solid base.

Next, cranberry sauce may be sweet, but cranberries themselves are high in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C and other polyphenols. These compounds support immune function and reduce inflammation. If you’re using a homemade or low-sugar version of cranberry sauce, you’ll benefit even more from the fruit’s natural goodness.

Mozzarella cheese, while indulgent, is actually one of the lighter cheeses in terms of fat and calories. Plus, it’s a good source of calcium and protein. Using just enough to get that melty, stretchy quality without going overboard keeps things balanced.

The rolls are where most of the carbs come in, of course. But if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can always opt for whole grain or multigrain dinner rolls, which add fiber and keep you fuller longer.

And let’s not forget the emotional health benefits. Comfort food like this brings a sense of joy, nostalgia, and satisfaction that shouldn’t be underestimated. Sharing a warm tray of sliders with your loved ones can be just as nourishing as the ingredients themselves. So while this isn’t a superfood salad, it’s definitely a feel-good, soul-warming dish with more upsides than you’d expect.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

One of the best things about this recipe is how quick and convenient it is. Even if you’re running low on energy (or dishes), you can have these sliders prepped and ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.

Total Preparation Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Servings:
This recipe makes 12 sliders, which typically serves 4 to 6 people, depending on appetites. For a casual meal, count on 2–3 sliders per person. If you’re serving this alongside other dishes or appetizers, you can stretch it to feed more.

Estimated Nutritional Information (Per Slider):
Calories: 230
Protein: 12g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Sugar: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 390mg

Keep in mind, these values will vary slightly depending on the type of rolls, cheese, and cranberry sauce you use. Using whole grain rolls or low-sodium gravy can make a noticeable difference in the overall nutrition profile.

What’s great about this recipe is that it can easily be adapted to suit your dietary needs. Watching your fat intake? Use a light mozzarella or reduce the butter on top. Need to keep sodium low? Opt for a homemade gravy with less salt. Want to boost the fiber content? Whole wheat rolls are a great alternative that don’t sacrifice softness.

Whether you’re making a full tray for family movie night or sneaking a couple for a solo lunch, this recipe scales easily and comes together in no time.

Ingredients List of these Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Let’s break down exactly what you’ll need to make these irresistible Turkey Cranberry Sliders. The ingredients are simple, but each one plays an important role in building flavor, texture, and that cozy comfort food feel.

Makes 12 sliders:

• 3 cups cooked turkey, diced or shredded
• 1 can cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied—your preference)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1½ cups turkey gravy (leftover or from a packet)
• ½ cup butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional)
• 12 fresh dinner rolls or Hawaiian rolls

Ingredient Notes:

Cooked Turkey:
This is the heart of your sliders. Leftover roasted turkey works best, but if you don’t have any, you can absolutely use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked halal turkey breast from the store. Shredding or dicing it small helps the meat soak up the gravy evenly.

Cranberry Sauce:
This is where the sweet-tart magic happens. You can use canned whole berry cranberry sauce for texture or jellied if you prefer a smoother bite. Homemade cranberry sauce with orange zest and spices will elevate the flavors even more.

Mozzarella Cheese:
Mozzarella is melty and mild, perfect for binding everything together without overpowering the other ingredients. Feel free to swap in cheddar or provolone if you like a sharper flavor.

Gravy:
Use leftover turkey gravy if you’ve got it. Otherwise, a store-bought halal gravy packet works just fine. Just make sure it’s hot before adding to the turkey to keep everything warm and ready to assemble.

Dinner Rolls:
Soft, slightly sweet rolls like Hawaiian rolls work beautifully here. You can also use plain dinner rolls or even mini brioche buns for a slightly fancier twist.

Butter and Sesame Seeds:
The melted butter on top helps the rolls get golden and toasty in the oven, while sesame seeds add a gentle crunch and a nice visual finish.

With just a handful of ingredients, you’re already halfway to the coziest meal of the season.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve got your ingredients lined up, it’s time to bring everything together. These Turkey Cranberry Sliders are super easy to make, but following each step carefully ensures they come out just right—golden, gooey, and totally delicious. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). While that might seem like a low temperature, it’s ideal for slowly warming the sliders without drying them out. This gentle heat lets the cheese melt perfectly, the rolls toast just slightly on top, and the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Turkey and Gravy

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced or shredded turkey with the gravy. Stir everything together and bring it just to a gentle boil. This step helps warm the turkey through and ensures it’s coated in that rich, savory gravy before being layered into the sliders.

Once the mixture is hot and bubbling, remove the pan from the heat. You don’t want it to keep cooking—just warmed enough to stay hot while you assemble the sliders.

Pro tip: If your gravy is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water to thin it out slightly. It should be saucy but not runny, so it spreads easily over the rolls without making them soggy.

Step 3: Slice the Rolls

Using a sharp serrated knife, slice the entire set of rolls in half horizontally. Keep the rolls connected if you can—it makes assembly much easier. You’ll end up with one large top half and one large bottom half.

Place the bottom half of the rolls, cut-side up, into a parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly grease the pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Add a Layer of Butter

Brush a few tablespoons of the melted butter over the bottom halves of the rolls. This not only adds flavor but also helps prevent the gravy from soaking through the bread too quickly.

If you want to get creative, you could mix a pinch of garlic powder or dried herbs into the butter for a little extra oomph. Even just a touch of thyme or rosemary can tie everything back to those traditional holiday flavors.

Step 5: Add the Turkey and Gravy Mixture

Spoon the warm turkey and gravy mixture evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Use a slotted spoon if your gravy is a little loose, or pour carefully and spread with a spatula to keep the liquid contained.

Make sure every roll gets a generous helping. It’s okay if a little spills over the sides—that’s part of the charm.

Step 6: Add Cranberry Sauce

Next comes the cranberry sauce. Use a spoon or offset spatula to spread the sauce evenly over the turkey. You don’t need a thick layer—just enough to get that sweet and tart flavor in every bite.

If you’re using whole berry cranberry sauce, give it a quick stir first to break it up so it spreads more easily. If it’s jellied, slicing it thinly or mashing it slightly with a fork can help.

Step 7: Sprinkle the Cheese

Now for the cheese. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the cranberry layer. You want enough to melt nicely and hold everything together, but not so much that it overwhelms the delicate balance of flavors.

Make sure to cover the sliders from edge to edge so every bite gets that gooey, melted goodness.

Step 8: Add the Top Rolls

Carefully place the top half of the rolls over the filling. Line them up so they match the bottom rolls as closely as possible.

Step 9: Brush with Butter and Add Toppings

Brush the tops of the rolls generously with the remaining melted butter. This helps them toast to a golden finish in the oven and gives them that irresistible buttery shine.

If you’re using sesame seeds, sprinkle them over the tops now. They’re optional, but they add a nice texture and make the sliders look extra polished.

Step 10: Bake

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for melted cheese, warm filling, and golden-brown tops.

If the tops start to brown too quickly, you can lightly cover the dish with foil during the last few minutes of baking. But in most ovens, 15 minutes at 300°F is just right.

Step 11: Slice and Serve

Once the sliders are done, remove them from the oven and let them sit for a couple of minutes before slicing. This helps everything settle slightly so they’re easier to cut.

Use a large, sharp knife to cut along the lines of the rolls and serve warm. The cheese should be perfectly melted, the cranberry and turkey nestled together, and the rolls soft and toasty.

Optional Add-Ins and Variations

If you want to experiment with flavors, this recipe is super flexible. Here are a few tasty variations you can try:

• Add sautéed onions or caramelized onions between the turkey and cranberry layers for extra sweetness and depth.
• Mix in fresh herbs like chopped parsley, rosemary, or thyme with the turkey to brighten things up.
• Add a layer of stuffing under the turkey for the full holiday sandwich experience.
• Use Swiss or provolone instead of mozzarella for a slightly sharper flavor.

No matter how you layer it, these sliders are a guaranteed hit.

How to Serve these Turkey Cranberry Sliders

There are so many ways to serve Turkey Cranberry Sliders, which is part of what makes them so appealing. They’re incredibly versatile—perfect for casual meals, potlucks, holiday brunches, or just as a cozy snack.

If you’re serving them for lunch or dinner, pair the sliders with a simple side salad, some roasted veggies, or even a bowl of soup. A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can help cut the richness of the sliders, while something like roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash echoes the flavors of a holiday meal.

For more casual settings, like game days or family movie nights, serve the sliders with potato wedges, sweet potato fries, or veggie sticks with dip. They’re also great alongside a warm cup of soup—think creamy tomato, roasted carrot, or turkey noodle for a full comfort meal.

If you’re planning a brunch or post-holiday gathering, these sliders fit right in. Place them on a tray and let guests help themselves. You could even cut them into smaller pieces for a bite-sized appetizer option.

No matter the occasion, just be sure to serve them warm. That’s when the cheese is melty, the rolls are perfectly soft, and the flavors are at their best. If you’re making them ahead, you can reheat in the oven for 5 to 10 minutes at 300°F to bring them back to life.

Whether it’s brunch, lunch, or a late-night snack, these sliders fit the mood every time.

Pairing Suggestions for these Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Pairing your Turkey Cranberry Sliders with the right sides and beverages can take your meal from great to absolutely unforgettable. Whether you’re serving them as part of a cozy dinner or offering them at a relaxed gathering, the right pairings will enhance the flavors and balance out the richness of the sliders.

Let’s start with side dishes. Because the sliders are warm, cheesy, and on the heavier side thanks to the gravy and buttered rolls, a crisp and refreshing side can make all the difference. A light, tangy salad—like an arugula and apple salad with a lemon vinaigrette—adds freshness and crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, savory sliders. Another great option is a cabbage slaw with a vinegar-based dressing instead of a creamy one. The acidity cuts through the richness in the best way.

If you’re leaning into the comfort food vibe, go with warm sides. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes are a natural fit because they echo the holiday flavors and bring color to the plate. Garlic mashed potatoes are another indulgent yet harmonious pairing, especially when you have extra gravy to drizzle over everything.

For a brunch spread, add some scrambled eggs, sliced fruit, or hash browns to round out the meal. These sliders are incredibly versatile and slide right into any setting, whether you’re doing casual snacks or a full spread.

As for drinks, keep it simple and refreshing. For a non-alcoholic option, go with a sparkling apple cider, cranberry spritzer, or iced herbal tea with citrus slices. These drinks add a little brightness and cleanse the palate. A chilled mint lemonade would also be an excellent counterpoint to the savory, cheesy layers of the sliders.

If you’re looking to offer a hot beverage, spiced chai tea, warm apple cider, or even a light Turkish tea works beautifully to complement the comforting, cozy flavors.

With the right pairings, your Turkey Cranberry Sliders go from leftover remix to a fully satisfying, well-rounded meal that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Turkey Cranberry Sliders are best enjoyed warm and fresh, but if you have leftovers (which isn’t always likely), they store beautifully and can be easily reheated without losing that fresh-baked flavor and texture.

Storing in the Fridge

To store leftover sliders, allow them to cool completely at room temperature first. Then, place them in an airtight container or wrap the entire tray tightly in foil or plastic wrap. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

If you’re storing individual sliders for quick grab-and-go meals or snacks, you can wrap each one in foil or place them in separate containers for easy reheating.

Freezing Instructions

Freezing is a great option if you’ve made a double batch or want to prep ahead. To freeze, first let the sliders cool completely. Then, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them all in a large freezer-safe zip-top bag or container. This method prevents freezer burn and allows you to reheat only what you need.

Frozen sliders can be stored for up to 2 months. Make sure to label the bag with the date so you remember how long they’ve been in there.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat refrigerated sliders, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the sliders on a baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent them from drying out, and heat for 10 to 12 minutes, or until warmed through. If you want the tops to crisp back up, remove the foil during the last few minutes of reheating.

For frozen sliders, there are two options. You can thaw them in the fridge overnight and follow the same reheating instructions as above. Or, if you’re reheating straight from the freezer, wrap them in foil and bake at 300°F for 18 to 20 minutes, then uncover for the last few minutes to crisp the tops.

Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread rubbery and the cheese greasy. If you’re in a rush, microwaving in 30-second bursts wrapped in a damp paper towel will work in a pinch, but the oven is definitely the better method for preserving texture and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in these Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Even though these sliders are super easy to make, a few small missteps can affect the final result. Here are some of the most common mistakes—and how to avoid them—so your sliders come out perfect every single time.

Using Cold Ingredients

One of the biggest mistakes is assembling the sliders with cold turkey and gravy. Not only does this affect the overall cook time, but it also results in uneven heating. Always warm your turkey and gravy before assembling. This ensures the inside gets hot enough during the quick baking time without overcooking the tops.

Soggy Bottoms

Soggy slider bottoms can ruin the texture. To avoid this, make sure you don’t overload the gravy. The turkey should be saucy, not swimming in liquid. Also, brushing the bottom buns with butter creates a barrier that helps prevent them from soaking up too much moisture.

Overbaking

Because the oven temp is low, it’s tempting to leave the sliders in too long. But doing so can dry out the rolls and make the tops too hard. Stick to the recommended 12 to 15 minutes and keep an eye on them. The cheese should be melted and the tops lightly golden—no darker.

Uneven Cheese Distribution

Cheese is the glue that holds these sliders together, so make sure you spread it evenly. Clumping it in one area means some sliders won’t get that gooey goodness in every bite.

Skipping the Butter on Top

That melted butter on top isn’t just for show—it’s essential for getting that golden, flavorful crust on the buns. Skipping this step means you’ll miss out on a lot of flavor and texture.

Not Letting Them Rest Before Cutting

Cutting into the sliders right out of the oven can cause all the filling to slide out. Letting them rest for just a few minutes helps everything settle and makes slicing much cleaner.

By avoiding these simple mistakes, you’re well on your way to slider perfection.

Pro Tips

To take your Turkey Cranberry Sliders from good to unforgettable, a few pro-level tips can really elevate your cooking game. These are the little tricks and tweaks I’ve picked up after making this recipe more times than I can count. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just getting comfortable in the kitchen, these tips will help you nail it every time.

Toast the Bottom Buns (Optional but Helpful)

If you’re worried about soggy bottoms (and who isn’t?), try this quick trick: place the bottom halves of the rolls in the baking dish and toast them in the oven for about 3 to 5 minutes before assembling. This creates a slight barrier and helps the bread stand up to the gravy.

Use Freshly Grated Cheese

It might be tempting to grab a bag of pre-shredded mozzarella, but freshly grated cheese melts better and gives you a smoother, more satisfying texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melt. A few extra minutes with the grater are totally worth it.

Don’t Overload the Filling

It can be tempting to pile on the turkey and gravy, but less is often more here. Overfilling makes the sliders hard to cut and messy to eat. Aim for a balanced layer that stays neatly inside the rolls. Remember, you want every bite to include turkey, cranberry, cheese, and bread in perfect harmony.

Customize the Flavor Profile

While the classic combo is unbeatable, don’t be afraid to put your own spin on things. Add a dash of black pepper or a sprinkle of garlic powder to the turkey mixture. Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Little flavor tweaks can take these sliders in different directions, depending on your mood or what you’ve got on hand.

Bake on a Wire Rack (Optional)

If you really want that extra touch of crispness, place the parchment paper on a wire rack inside your baking dish. This allows a little air circulation under the rolls, keeping the bottoms from steaming and helping them toast slightly.

Let Them Rest Before Cutting

Once baked, let the sliders sit for 3 to 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set a bit and keeps the layers from sliding apart. Plus, it makes slicing much easier and cleaner.

By following these tips, you’ll get consistent, delicious results every time you make this recipe. And once you’ve got the basic method down, feel free to make it your own—it’s nearly impossible to mess up when you’ve got these tips in your back pocket.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Even though this recipe is super simple, you might still have a few questions. Here are the most common ones I get, along with straightforward answers to help you make this recipe with total confidence.

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely. This recipe works beautifully with shredded or diced cooked chicken, especially if you’ve got leftover rotisserie chicken in the fridge. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?

Yes, and honestly—it might make your sliders even better. Homemade cranberry sauce with orange zest, cinnamon, or spices adds extra flavor and texture. Just make sure it’s not too watery, or your rolls could get soggy.

What’s the best kind of roll to use?

Soft, pull-apart rolls like Hawaiian rolls are perfect because they’re slightly sweet and easy to work with. You can also use plain dinner rolls, potato rolls, or even mini brioche buns. Just make sure they’re soft and fluffy for the best texture.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the sliders up to a few hours ahead. Cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time, just pop them in the oven as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes to the bake time since they’ll be cold.

Can I freeze these before baking?

Freezing the sliders assembled but unbaked isn’t ideal, as the bread can get soggy. Instead, assemble and bake them first, let them cool, then wrap and freeze individually. They reheat beautifully and make for a quick and satisfying snack or meal.

How do I keep the sliders from getting soggy?

Start by warming the turkey and gravy before assembling, and don’t go overboard with the sauce. Brushing butter on the bottom buns and toasting them briefly can also help. Lastly, let the sliders rest a few minutes before cutting, which gives everything time to settle.

Can I make a dairy-free version?

Yes! Use your favorite dairy-free cheese substitute and either skip the butter or use a plant-based version. The sliders will still be delicious and comforting, with all those same sweet-savory holiday vibes.

Can I use a different cheese?

Mozzarella is mild and melty, but you can absolutely use others. Cheddar, provolone, Swiss, or a mix of mozzarella and Monterey Jack all work great, depending on the flavor profile you’re going for.

Are sesame seeds necessary?

Not at all. They’re optional and mainly for texture and visual appeal. If you don’t have any on hand—or just don’t like them—you can skip this step without affecting the taste.

Can I serve these cold?

Technically, yes, but they’re meant to be served warm. The cheese is melty, the turkey is juicy, and the rolls are soft and slightly toasted—those textures and flavors really shine when heated. If you need to serve them at room temperature for an event, they’ll still be tasty, but the gooey factor won’t be quite the same.

Conclusion & Call to Action

If you’ve made it this far, you’re probably just as excited about these Turkey Cranberry Sliders as I am. And honestly, what’s not to love? They’re quick, easy, and packed with flavor—the perfect way to breathe new life into those holiday leftovers.

This recipe proves that leftovers don’t have to be boring. With just a few basic ingredients and a little bit of layering, you can turn turkey and cranberry sauce into something that feels totally fresh and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for your family the day after a big feast or just looking for a simple and cozy dinner idea, these sliders are guaranteed to hit the spot.

I hope you’ll give this recipe a try, especially during the post-holiday haze when you want something warm, familiar, and deeply satisfying. And if you do make them, I’d love to hear about it! Share your experience in the comments, let me know if you put your own twist on the recipe, or even better—snap a photo and tag me on social media. I can’t wait to see how your sliders turn out.

Remember, cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be amazing. With a little creativity and a few humble ingredients, you can whip up meals that bring people together, create memories, and maybe even start a new tradition in your kitchen.

So go ahead—preheat that oven, warm up the gravy, and get layering. You’ve got a tray of golden, gooey, irresistible sliders waiting to happen.

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