Thanksgiving Leftovers Sliders

1. Introduction to Thanksgiving Leftovers Sliders

Thanksgiving is all about sharing delicious food and creating cherished memories with loved ones. But once the feast is over, you’re often left with an abundance of leftovers that deserve just as much celebration. Enter Thanksgiving Leftovers Sliders – the perfect way to repurpose turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and more into a mouthwatering treat everyone will love. These sliders are easy to assemble, packed with flavor, and ideal for quick meals or sharing with guests during the holiday weekend. Say goodbye to boring reheated plates and hello to a creative, delicious twist on Thanksgiving leftovers!

 

2. Benefits of Making Thanksgiving Leftovers Sliders

Minimizes Food Waste

Turn your Thanksgiving leftovers into something fresh and exciting. Sliders allow you to use up turkey, stuffing, and other dishes in a creative way, reducing food waste while enjoying every last bite of the feast.

Quick and Easy to Prepare

Sliders are a fuss-free meal option. With minimal prep and assembly, you can have a warm, satisfying dish ready in no time—perfect for post-holiday relaxation.

Great for Sharing

Hosting friends or family after Thanksgiving? These bite-sized sliders are crowd-pleasers that make entertaining easy. They’re great for casual gatherings or as an afternoon snack.

Customizable and Versatile

From turkey and cranberry sauce to mashed potatoes and gravy, sliders can be tailored to suit your leftovers and taste preferences. Add cheese, sauces, or a hint of spice for a unique twist.

Portable and Perfect for On-the-Go

Whether you’re packing a quick lunch or enjoying a lazy day at home, sliders are portable and mess-free, making them a convenient option for any occasion.

 

3. Ingredients Overview for Thanksgiving Leftovers Sliders

Creating Thanksgiving Leftovers Sliders is all about repurposing the delicious dishes from your holiday meal into a single, irresistible bite. Here’s an overview of the key ingredients you’ll need:

Slider Buns

Soft, mini buns provide the perfect base for these sliders, adding a light and fluffy texture to every bite.

Turkey

The star of Thanksgiving leftovers! Shredded or sliced turkey is packed with flavor and protein, making it the centerpiece of your sliders.

Stuffing

Add a layer of stuffing for a burst of savory flavor and hearty texture. It complements the turkey beautifully.

Cranberry Sauce

A dollop of cranberry sauce brings a tangy sweetness that balances the rich flavors of the other ingredients.

Mashed Potatoes or Gravy

For an extra indulgent slider, spread a thin layer of mashed potatoes or drizzle gravy over the turkey for added moisture and flavor.

Cheese (Optional)

Melted cheese, like Swiss, cheddar, or provolone, adds a creamy, gooey touch that elevates the sliders to a whole new level.

Butter and Seasoning

Brush the buns with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder, parsley, or sesame seeds for added flavor and a golden finish.

 

4. Types of Bread for Sliders

Choosing the right bread is key to creating the perfect Thanksgiving Leftovers Sliders. Here are some excellent options to suit different tastes and textures:

Hawaiian Rolls

These sweet, fluffy rolls are a popular choice for sliders. Their slight sweetness complements savory turkey, stuffing, and tangy cranberry sauce perfectly.

Mini Brioche Buns

Brioche buns are soft, buttery, and rich, adding a touch of elegance and extra flavor to your sliders.

Dinner Rolls

If you have leftover dinner rolls from Thanksgiving, they’re the perfect size and texture for creating hearty sliders while making use of what you already have.

Potato Rolls

Potato rolls are soft, slightly dense, and have a mild flavor that pairs well with all kinds of Thanksgiving leftovers.

Whole Wheat Slider Buns

For a healthier twist, whole wheat buns provide a slightly nutty flavor and a boost of fiber to balance the richness of the fillings.

Pretzel Buns

For those who love a chewy, salty contrast, pretzel buns add a bold flavor and sturdy texture to hold hearty fillings.

Gluten-Free Buns

If you’re catering to dietary preferences, gluten-free buns ensure everyone can enjoy these sliders without compromise.

 

5. Turkey as the Star Ingredient

Turkey takes center stage in Thanksgiving Leftovers Sliders, transforming your holiday feast into a delightful handheld meal. Its versatility and rich, savory flavor make it the perfect base for creative combinations.

Juicy and Flavorful

Whether you use tender white meat or succulent dark meat, turkey adds a hearty and satisfying bite to every slider. Its natural flavors pair beautifully with both sweet and savory accompaniments.

Perfect for Layering

Shredded, sliced, or chopped, turkey serves as a sturdy foundation for layering stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, or even a slice of cheese.

Protein-Packed Goodness

Turkey is a lean source of protein, making these sliders a wholesome option for meals or snacks. It’s a great way to enjoy the nutritious benefits of your holiday main dish in a new form.

Easily Enhanced with Flavors

Enhance the turkey’s natural taste with a drizzle of leftover gravy, a sprinkle of herbs, or a dash of seasoning. Turkey’s neutral profile makes it a canvas for bold and subtle flavors alike.

Crowd-Pleasing Versatility

Turkey sliders appeal to all ages and tastes. From traditional combinations to creative twists, it’s a star ingredient that brings comfort and nostalgia to your post-holiday meals.

 

6. Adding the Perfect Cheese

Cheese can take your Thanksgiving Leftovers Sliders to the next level by adding creaminess, richness, and even a hint of tang. Choosing the right cheese ensures a perfect balance of flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

Swiss Cheese

Mild and slightly nutty, Swiss cheese melts beautifully, complementing the savory flavors of turkey and stuffing without overpowering the dish.

Cheddar Cheese

For a sharper, bolder taste, cheddar cheese is a classic choice. It pairs well with the sweetness of cranberry sauce and the heartiness of mashed potatoes or gravy.

Provolone Cheese

Provolone is mild and creamy, adding just the right amount of meltiness and a subtle flavor that enhances all the slider components.

Mozzarella Cheese

If you’re looking for gooey, stretchy goodness, mozzarella is a fantastic option. It’s neutral in taste, allowing the Thanksgiving flavors to shine.

Brie Cheese

For a touch of elegance, add brie. Its creamy texture and slight earthy flavor pair beautifully with turkey and cranberry sauce for a gourmet twist.

Pepper Jack Cheese

If you want a hint of spice, pepper jack cheese brings a zesty kick that complements the rich and savory elements of the sliders.

Gruyère Cheese

This rich, nutty cheese melts like a dream and adds a sophisticated depth of flavor to your sliders, especially when paired with gravy or caramelized onions.

 

7. Complementary Fillings for Thanksgiving Leftovers Sliders

The beauty of Thanksgiving Leftovers Sliders lies in the endless possibilities for fillings. By mixing and matching complementary ingredients, you can create sliders that are bursting with flavor. Here are some ideas to inspire your creations:

Stuffing

Add a layer of stuffing for a hearty, savory element. Its rich, herbaceous flavors blend perfectly with turkey and other fillings.

Cranberry Sauce

A dollop of cranberry sauce adds a tangy-sweet contrast to the savory ingredients, brightening up every bite.

Mashed Potatoes

Spread a thin layer of mashed potatoes for a creamy texture that adds comfort and nostalgia to your sliders.

Gravy

A drizzle of warm gravy ties all the flavors together, keeping the sliders moist and flavorful.

Sweet Potatoes

Roasted or mashed sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness and a velvety texture that pairs beautifully with savory turkey and stuffing.

Cheese

Melted cheese, such as cheddar, Swiss, or brie, adds creaminess and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Caramelized Onions

For an extra layer of flavor, add caramelized onions. Their sweetness complements the turkey and savory fillings perfectly.

Greens

Fresh spinach, arugula, or leftover roasted Brussels sprouts add a refreshing crunch and balance to the richness of the other ingredients.

Condiments

Elevate your sliders with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, or aioli for a burst of extra flavor. Combine with cranberry sauce for a unique twist!

Nuts or Seeds

For a bit of crunch, sprinkle on some toasted pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds. They add texture and pair well with both savory and sweet fillings.

 

8. Condiments and Sauces

The right condiments and sauces can elevate your Thanksgiving Leftovers Sliders, adding moisture, flavor, and a unique twist. Here are some great options to complement the turkey, stuffing, and other fillings:

Cranberry Sauce

A classic choice, cranberry sauce adds a sweet-tart burst of flavor that balances the savory elements like turkey and stuffing.

Gravy

Rich and comforting, gravy is a must-have for Thanksgiving leftovers. Drizzle it over the turkey and stuffing for extra moisture and flavor. You can also use it as a dipping sauce for a more indulgent experience.

Mayonnaise

Creamy mayo is a versatile option that adds richness without overpowering the other ingredients. Try mixing in some herbs or lemon juice to brighten it up.

Dijon Mustard

For a tangy kick, Dijon mustard provides just the right amount of heat and acidity to cut through the richness of the sliders.

Garlic Aioli

A garlic aioli brings a creamy, savory twist that enhances the flavors of the turkey and stuffing. It’s a sophisticated option for those looking for a little extra depth.

Ranch Dressing

For a creamy and zesty touch, ranch dressing is always a crowd-pleaser. Its herby, tangy notes pair well with turkey and mashed potatoes.

Hot Sauce

If you enjoy a bit of spice, a few dashes of hot sauce can add heat and complexity to your sliders. Try it with turkey and cranberry sauce for a sweet-heat balance.

Barbecue Sauce

Smoky and sweet barbecue sauce offers a bold flavor that pairs nicely with turkey and stuffing. It’s a great option if you want to switch things up from traditional condiments.

Honey Mustard

Sweet and tangy, honey mustard is an excellent choice for a slightly sweet contrast to the savory turkey and stuffing, providing a mellow flavor boost.

Pesto

For a fresh, herby twist, pesto (made from basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan) adds a unique flavor profile that complements the richness of the turkey.

 

9. Assembling the Perfect Thanksgiving Leftovers Slider

Creating the perfect Thanksgiving Leftovers Slider is all about layering flavors and textures to create a balanced, satisfying bite. Here’s a step-by-step guide to assembling your sliders:

Choose Your Bread

Start with your bread choice, such as Hawaiian rolls, mini brioche buns, or dinner rolls. Slice them in half, making sure to keep the buns intact so you can easily fill them later.

Spread Condiments

Add your preferred condiments to the inside of both the top and bottom buns. A thin layer of mayo, gravy, or cranberry sauce works well to create a flavorful base and add moisture.

Layer the Turkey

Place a generous amount of leftover turkey on the bottom half of the bun. Whether you use shredded or sliced turkey, be sure to spread it evenly for a satisfying bite in every slider.

Add Complementary Fillings

Next, layer in any complementary fillings. Add a spoonful of stuffing, mashed potatoes, or roasted sweet potatoes for a hearty texture. If you have leftover greens like Brussels sprouts or spinach, add them for a touch of freshness and crunch.

Top with Cheese

Place a slice of your favorite cheese—cheddar, Swiss, or provolone—on top of the fillings. You can melt the cheese first for a gooey effect or leave it as is for a bit of texture.

Finish with a Drizzle

Top the cheese with more condiments if desired, such as extra cranberry sauce, mustard, or aioli. This adds a finishing burst of flavor and ties everything together.

Close and Toast (Optional)

Place the top bun on the slider and press down gently to help the fillings stay in place. For an added touch, brush the top of the bun with melted butter and toast them in the oven or on a griddle until golden and crispy. This creates a crunchy, flavorful exterior while keeping the inside moist.

Serve and Enjoy

Once your sliders are assembled, serve them immediately or wrap them up to enjoy later. These sliders are perfect for sharing, so make a platter to enjoy with friends and family!

 

10. Baking Thanksgiving Sliders

Baking Thanksgiving Leftovers Sliders is an excellent way to enhance the flavors, melt the cheese, and achieve a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the insides moist and flavorful. Here’s how to bake your sliders to perfection:

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the sliders bake evenly and become perfectly golden and crispy.

Assemble the Sliders

Follow the steps for assembling your sliders, making sure to layer your bread, turkey, stuffing, cheese, and any other fillings. Place them in a baking dish or on a sheet pan, keeping the buns in a tight row so they stay together while baking.

Brush with Butter

Before baking, brush the tops of the slider buns with melted butter. You can also sprinkle a little garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs (like parsley or thyme) on top for extra flavor. The butter will help create a rich, golden finish.

Cover with Foil

To ensure the sliders cook evenly and don’t dry out, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will trap the heat and steam, helping the cheese melt and the flavors blend.

Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the sliders are heated through and the cheese has melted. If you want a crispier top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the buns to toast.

Check for Doneness

Once the sliders are golden and the cheese is melted, remove them from the oven. Use a knife to slice between the buns for individual sliders.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the baked sliders hot and fresh. They’re perfect for a casual meal, a snack, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. If you like, serve with extra dipping sauces like gravy, cranberry sauce, or aioli for added flavor.

 

11. Variations and Customizations

Thanksgiving Leftovers Sliders are incredibly versatile, allowing you to get creative with the fillings, bread, and condiments. Here are some fun variations and customizations to take your sliders to the next level:

Swap the Meat

While turkey is the traditional choice, you can easily swap in other proteins like ham, roast beef, or chicken. If you have leftover roasted veggies, they can serve as the star of a vegetarian slider.

Change the Bread

Experiment with different bread options to suit your taste. Try pretzel buns for a salty, chewy bite, or swap out the classic rolls for soft potato buns or whole wheat slider buns for a healthier twist.

Add Sweet Potatoes

For a sweeter touch, add roasted or mashed sweet potatoes to your sliders. The natural sweetness of the potatoes complements the savory turkey and stuffing for a delicious balance.

Top with Cranberry Relish

If you want to amplify the sweet-tart flavor, swap out traditional cranberry sauce for cranberry relish. It can add more texture and a slightly tangier taste.

Add a Spice Kick

For a spicy twist, add some pepper jack cheese, jalapeño slices, or a drizzle of hot sauce. The heat will provide a bold contrast to the richness of the turkey and stuffing.

Try a Savory Spread

Consider adding savory spreads such as pesto, aioli, or Dijon mustard to your sliders. These will add depth and complexity to the flavors, giving your sliders a gourmet edge.

Incorporate Greens

For added crunch and freshness, layer in some leafy greens like arugula, spinach, or even leftover Brussels sprouts. These provide a nice contrast to the creamy, rich elements of the sliders.

Cheese Variations

Mix up the cheese to match your flavor preferences. Swiss, provolone, and gouda are great options, or for a smoky touch, try smoked cheddar or gouda. For a tangier option, go for goat cheese or blue cheese.

Add a Crispy Element

For extra texture, consider adding crispy fried onions or bacon. These additions give a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft bread and melted cheese.

Make a Mini Casserole

For a twist on traditional sliders, you can layer all the ingredients in a baking dish and bake them as a mini casserole. This way, the sliders come together in a larger, casserole-style dish, making it easy to serve a crowd.

Gluten-Free Options

For gluten-free sliders, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps as a substitute for traditional bread. These can hold all your favorite fillings without compromising the flavor.

Herb and Garlic Butter

Brush your buns with herb-infused butter—think garlic, rosemary, or thyme—for an extra burst of flavor. This step can enhance the aroma and make your sliders even more delicious.

 

12. Storage and Reheating Tips for Thanksgiving Leftovers Sliders

Thanksgiving Leftovers Sliders are perfect for making ahead and enjoying later. With the right storage and reheating techniques, you can keep these sliders fresh and delicious for days. Here are some helpful tips:

Storage Tips

1. Refrigerate Leftover Sliders
   After assembling and baking your sliders, allow them to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep the sliders in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
2. Store Components Separately (Optional)
   If you plan to assemble the sliders later, store the ingredients separately. Keep the turkey, stuffing, cheese, and condiments in separate containers to maintain their freshness. This method allows you to assemble and bake them as needed.
3. Freeze for Longer Storage
   If you have a large batch of sliders, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, you can bake them directly from frozen.

Reheating Tips

1. Oven Reheating (Best Option)
   The best way to reheat Thanksgiving Leftovers Sliders is in the oven to maintain their crispiness and melt the cheese. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and place the sliders on a baking sheet. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out, and heat for 10-15 minutes. For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last few minutes of baking.
2. Reheat in the Microwave
   For a quicker option, reheat individual sliders in the microwave. Wrap each slider in a damp paper towel to keep it moist, then microwave on high for 30-45 seconds, depending on the size of the slider. Keep in mind that microwaving may not provide the same crispy texture as oven reheating.
3. Griddle or Pan Reheating
   For a crispy exterior, you can reheat the sliders on a griddle or in a skillet. Heat the griddle over medium heat, and place the sliders on it, pressing them down slightly. Cover with a lid to trap heat, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden.
4. Avoid Reheating Multiple Times
   To preserve the quality of the sliders, avoid reheating them more than once. Repeated reheating can cause the bread to become soggy or the fillings to lose flavor and texture.

 

13. Conclusion

Thanksgiving leftovers sliders are a creative and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of your holiday feast in a fun, bite-sized meal. Whether you’re repurposing turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, or mashed potatoes, these sliders make the most of your leftovers while keeping meal prep quick and simple. Perfect for a casual snack, next-day brunch, or even game-day gatherings, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Try this recipe and turn your leftovers into a new favorite tradition! Don’t forget to share your experience and tips in the comments below.

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