How to Make Delicious Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders

A Cozy Post-Thanksgiving Story

The day after Thanksgiving always has its own rhythm. The hustle of the big holiday meal is behind us, the house is quiet again, and the fridge is packed to the brim with turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. Over the years, I’ve discovered that this moment is the perfect opportunity to get creative in the kitchen. That’s how Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders became a little family tradition in our home.

There’s something comforting about turning yesterday’s feast into today’s easy lunch or dinner. These leftover turkey sliders take all the best flavors of Thanksgiving and tuck them neatly into soft rolls with melted cheese and a touch of sweet-tart cranberry sauce. They’re quick to make, fun to eat, and somehow taste even better than the big dinner itself.

I still remember the first year I tried making these sliders. I was determined not to let another bite of turkey or stuffing go to waste, so I piled them into rolls, added cheese, and baked them in the oven until everything was melty and golden. My family devoured them before I even had a chance to sit down, and from then on, these Thanksgiving turkey sliders earned a permanent place on our post-holiday menu.

Golden baked leftover Thanksgiving turkey sliders with cranberry and stuffing — Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Baked to Perfection

What I love most about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can adjust the fillings based on whatever you have leftover—extra stuffing, roasted veggies, or even a bit of gravy drizzled over the top. And while they’re perfect for a quick lunch, they also make an excellent appetizer if you’re hosting friends for a cozy fall gathering. For those who prefer something sweet the next morning, a slice of Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl is always a great pairing with coffee.

In our house, Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders aren’t just a way to use up extra food—they’re a reminder that some of the best meals come from keeping things simple, fun, and full of flavor.

Table of Contents

Why Leftover Turkey Sliders Are the Best Post-Holiday Meal

When Thanksgiving is over, many people feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of food left in the fridge. That’s exactly where Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders shine. They transform leftovers into something fresh, flavorful, and festive without hours of extra work. Instead of reheating plain slices of turkey, you get to enjoy a handheld bite filled with melted cheese, savory stuffing, and tangy cranberry sauce tucked inside soft rolls.

The beauty of leftover turkey sliders is how they strike the perfect balance of flavors. You’ve got the juicy turkey that soaks up seasoning beautifully, the richness of melted cheese, the comfort of stuffing, and that pop of brightness from cranberry sauce. Add buttery rolls with a drizzle of poppy seed dressing, and suddenly your holiday leftovers become a dish worth celebrating all on its own.

Compared to ordinary Thanksgiving turkey sliders you might make before the big meal, these sliders taste even better because the flavors have had time to deepen. Turkey that’s been resting overnight is tender and easier to shred, stuffing develops more richness, and cranberry sauce settles into its sweet-tart perfection. It’s like your holiday dinner aged gracefully overnight, ready to be reborn as a new family favorite.

They’re also practical. In less than 30 minutes, you can feed a hungry crowd—whether it’s family lingering after the holiday or friends dropping by for a casual get-together. These sliders are portable, kid-approved, and perfect for reheating if you make a double batch. And if you’re looking for another way to repurpose leftovers, a comforting bowl of High Protein Leftover Turkey Soup is another excellent option for warming up chilly days.

In short, easy leftover turkey sliders are more than just a sandwich—they’re a clever way to stretch your Thanksgiving feast, reduce food waste, and enjoy the best flavors of the season in every bite.

Ingredients for the Perfect Leftover Turkey Sliders

The success of Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders starts with simple, flavorful ingredients. Most of what you need is already in your fridge after the big meal, which makes these sliders even easier to whip up. Below is a breakdown of everything you’ll need, with a few substitution ideas to fit what you have on hand.

Ingredients for leftover turkey sliders with cranberry, stuffing, and cheese — Ingredients for Homemade Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders

For the Honey Mustard Sauce

1 cup mayonnaise – the creamy base.
¼ cup honey – adds sweetness that complements turkey.
⅛ cup mustard – balances the richness with a tangy kick.

This quick sauce ties the sliders together. You can also use Dijon mustard for a sharper flavor or swap honey for maple syrup if that’s what’s in your pantry.

For the Poppy Seed Dressing

½ cup unsalted butter, melted – keeps rolls golden and flavorful.
1 tablespoon poppy seeds – for crunch and a classic slider finish.
1½ tablespoons honey mustard sauce – to blend flavor throughout.
¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – adds depth and umami.

This buttery drizzle makes the tops of your sliders crisp and irresistible. It’s a small detail that elevates these from ordinary sandwiches to crave-worthy bites.

For the Sliders

12 white rolls – soft dinner rolls work best.
Spoonfuls of honey mustard sauce – spread on the bottoms.
Mayonnaise – for the tops of the rolls.
9 thick slices of turkey – perfect use for leftovers.
2 cups stuffing – adds a comforting layer.
12 slices white cheddar cheese (or Havarti, Muenster) – creamy and melty.
1 to 1½ cups cranberry sauce – sweet-tart balance to round out the flavors.

Feel free to customize. Swap cheddar for brie if you want a richer option, or add roasted vegetables into the mix. Cranberry lovers can layer on extra sauce, while cheese fans can double the slices for ultimate gooeyness.

For another cranberry-forward recipe perfect for holiday gatherings, try these Cranberry Brie Bites with Puff Pastry. They pair beautifully with these sliders for an appetizer spread that’s both savory and sweet.

With these ingredients prepped and ready, you’re only a few steps away from serving a tray of warm, melty leftover turkey sliders that everyone will rave about.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders is simple, but the little details are what make them so delicious. Here’s a clear breakdown of how to prepare them from start to finish.

Step 1: Make the Honey Mustard Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:

1 cup mayonnaise
¼ cup honey
⅛ cup mustard

Whisking honey mustard sauce for Thanksgiving turkey sliders — Preparing Honey Mustard Sauce for Turkey Sliders

This creamy, tangy spread adds sweetness and depth to every bite. If you prefer a sharper flavor, swap in Dijon mustard. For extra seasonal flair, try maple syrup instead of honey.

Step 2: Make the Poppy Seed Dressing

In a glass measuring cup, combine:

½ cup melted butter
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
1½ tablespoons honey mustard sauce
¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Brushing buttery poppy seed glaze on leftover turkey sliders — Brushing Poppy Seed Glaze on Thanksgiving Sliders

This buttery topping ensures the rolls bake up golden, slightly crisp, and full of flavor. It’s the finishing touch that makes these easy leftover turkey sliders unforgettable.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Slice open the rolls and line them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Spread honey mustard on the bottom halves and mayonnaise on the top halves.
Layer each roll with turkey, stuffing, and cheese.
Top with a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
Close the sandwiches with the top rolls.

Assembling leftover Thanksgiving turkey sliders with stuffing and cranberry — Layering Turkey, Stuffing, and Cheese for Sliders

You can prepare these sliders in advance and refrigerate them overnight—perfect if you’re planning a relaxed family brunch after Thanksgiving.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Drizzle the poppy seed dressing evenly over the assembled sliders, making sure the tops are fully coated. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 12–15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes, until the cheese melts and the tops are golden brown.

The aroma of buttery rolls and savory turkey filling will draw everyone into the kitchen before the timer even goes off.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the sliders warm, right out of the oven. They’re perfect for a casual family meal, an appetizer platter, or even game day snacks. Pair them with lighter dishes to balance out the richness—something fresh like a Thanksgiving Dinner Charcuterie Board makes a perfect sidekick.

Once you take a bite of these leftover turkey sliders, you’ll see why they’ve become a post-holiday tradition in so many homes.

Flavor Variations & Serving Ideas

One of the best things about Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders is how versatile they are. You can take the same base recipe and customize it to fit your family’s preferences, the leftovers you have on hand, or the mood you’re in. Below are some fun variations and creative serving ideas that keep this recipe fresh year after year.

Flavor Variations

Turkey Cranberry Sliders: Skip the stuffing and double up on cranberry sauce for a sweeter, tangier bite. These are perfect for anyone who loves the classic turkey-and-cranberry pairing.
Turkey Sliders with Stuffing: Make the stuffing the star of the show. Add extra stuffing between the turkey and cheese for an extra hearty version of Thanksgiving turkey sliders.
Cheesy Turkey Sliders: Use two slices of cheese per roll for maximum melt. Havarti, brie, or even pepper jack can transform the flavor.
Mini Turkey Sliders Thanksgiving Recipe: Use smaller rolls and cut everything down to bite-sized servings. These are ideal for classroom parties, holiday potlucks, or when you want grab-and-go leftovers.
Easy Leftover Turkey Sliders with Gravy: Drizzle warm gravy inside before baking for sliders that are rich and indulgent.

Serving Ideas

These sliders aren’t just a lunch option—they can be styled for all kinds of occasions.

Serving leftover Thanksgiving turkey sliders with cranberry and stuffing — Serving Warm Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders with Cranberry

Game Day Snack: Bake a double batch of Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders and serve them as finger food during football season.
Holiday Appetizer: Arrange the sliders on a platter with festive garnishes like fresh rosemary sprigs and orange slices for a seasonal touch.
Next-Day Brunch: Pair warm sliders with a cozy soup like Tuscan White Bean Soup to create a balanced leftover feast.
Kid-Friendly Treats: Leave out the cranberry sauce for picky eaters, or let kids decorate their own sliders with extra cheese and condiments.

No matter which variation you choose, the foundation of Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders stays the same: juicy turkey, flavorful layers, and golden, buttery rolls. That’s why they remain one of the best leftover turkey recipes you’ll ever make.

Pairing & Storage Tips

While Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders are delicious all on their own, pairing them with the right sides and storing them properly makes them even better. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply enjoying a quiet meal with family, these tips will help you get the most out of every bite.

Perfect Pairings

Soups for Balance: A warm bowl of soup cuts through the richness of sliders. Pair them with something hearty like Black Bean Soup for a cozy combination.
Fresh Salads: Serve alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette to lighten up the meal. A simple arugula and apple salad works beautifully.
Holiday Sides: Keep the Thanksgiving vibe going with roasted sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, or a tangy cranberry relish on the side.
Game Day Spread: Create a platter with mini turkey sliders Thanksgiving recipe versions, chips, dips, and wings for an unbeatable snack table.

Storage Tips

One of the best parts about Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders is how well they store, making them perfect for meal prep.

Refrigeration: Store cooked sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 10–12 minutes to keep the rolls crisp.
Freezing: Wrap unbaked sliders tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the cooking time.
Meal Prep Hack: Assemble the sliders the night before and refrigerate them. Add the poppy seed dressing right before baking to prevent sogginess.

Why They’re a Must-Have

Not only are these easy leftover turkey sliders a crowd-pleaser, but their flexibility makes them a lifesaver during the holiday season. You can serve them as a main dish, snack, or appetizer, and they always bring comfort and cheer to the table. Paired with something sweet like Maple Honeycrisp Apple Fritters, you’ve got a post-holiday menu that feels as festive as the big dinner itself.

With the right pairings and storage tricks, Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders become more than just a quick meal—they’re a thoughtful, flavorful way to extend the joy of the holiday table.

FAQ Section for Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders

What spices enhance turkey slider flavor?

Spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper bring depth to Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders. Adding herbs such as thyme or rosemary enhances the holiday flavor, especially if you’re pairing sliders with stuffing and cranberry sauce. For a little kick, a dash of cayenne or smoked paprika can elevate simple leftover turkey sliders into something bold and exciting.

What to put on a Thanksgiving turkey sandwich?

A traditional Thanksgiving sandwich includes turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and gravy. When those flavors are baked into Thanksgiving turkey sliders, they become even more satisfying. Melty cheese and buttery rolls make the perfect finishing touch. For something creative, try adding caramelized onions or brie cheese. These layers transform leftovers into the best leftover turkey recipes for family and friends.

What kind of turkey is best for sliders?

Both white and dark meat work well in Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders. White meat gives a leaner bite, while dark meat is juicier and adds more flavor. Many families use a mix for balance. If your turkey is a bit dry, layering with cheese, cranberry sauce, and honey mustard keeps the sliders moist and delicious from the first bite to the last.

What are good sides for turkey sliders?

Classic sides like roasted sweet potatoes, mac and cheese, and fresh green salads pair wonderfully with easy leftover turkey sliders. For a cozy meal, serve sliders with soups like Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup. If you’re hosting guests, small bites such as cranberry brie appetizers or veggie trays round out the spread and make your Thanksgiving turkey sliders shine even brighter.

What seasoning goes on sliders?

For the best flavor, season Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders with a blend of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. If you want something bolder, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or Italian seasoning. Since the turkey is already seasoned from Thanksgiving dinner, you don’t need much—just enough to highlight the layers of stuffing, cheese, and cranberry sauce baked into the sliders.

Which seasoning is best for turkey?

The best seasoning for turkey depends on your preference, but classic choices include thyme, rosemary, sage, and parsley. These herbs complement the traditional Thanksgiving flavors that carry over into turkey cranberry sliders. If you like a little heat, chili flakes or Cajun seasoning add a fun twist. Pairing these herbs with buttery rolls makes mini turkey sliders Thanksgiving recipe versions even more flavorful.

Conclusion

When Thanksgiving is over and the fridge is packed with leftovers, there’s no better way to repurpose them than with Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders. They’re quick, flavorful, and fun, bringing all the best parts of the holiday together in one bite. From the juicy turkey and savory stuffing to the melted cheese and tangy cranberry sauce, each slider is a little package of comfort food that tastes even better the next day.

What makes these leftover turkey sliders so special is their versatility. They can be customized with different cheeses, extra gravy, or even roasted vegetables, making them one of the best leftover turkey recipes for any family. They’re also perfect for game day, brunch, or casual holiday entertaining. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or arranging mini versions on a platter, these sliders always disappear fast.

The beauty of this recipe is that it keeps the holiday spirit alive without requiring hours in the kitchen. Just assemble, bake, and enjoy. And if you’re looking to round out your spread with something fun and festive, a Spooky Halloween Charcuterie Board offers the perfect playful balance to these savory sliders.

So this year, instead of reheating plain leftovers, turn your holiday feast into something extraordinary. With Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders, you’re not just saving food—you’re creating new memories, sharing good food, and keeping the joy of Thanksgiving going a little longer.