Leftover Turkey Sliders

Leftover Turkey Sliders are a delightful way to transform your holiday leftovers into a scrumptious meal. These sliders combine the comforting flavors of turkey, cranberry, and stuffing, all nestled between soft Hawaiian rolls. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or even a casual dinner, this recipe brings the essence of Thanksgiving right to your table without any fuss. Each bite offers a warm and hearty experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have delicious sliders ready in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of turkey, cranberry sauce, and provolone cheese creates a mouthwatering taste sensation.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether as an appetizer or a main dish, these sliders fit perfectly into any meal.
• Perfect for Leftovers: A fantastic way to utilize leftover turkey and avoid food waste while enjoying every bite.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these tasty bites, making them an excellent choice for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Leftover Turkey Sliders, having the right kitchen tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Baking dish (9×13-inch)
• Nonstick cooking spray
• Mixing bowl
• Pastry brush

Why These Tools Matter

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and keeps sliders secure during baking.
• Nonstick cooking spray: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients like butter and seasonings smoothly.
• Pastry brush: Perfect for applying melted butter evenly over the slider tops.

Ingredients

Leftover Turkey Sliders give you all the flavors and components of a Thanksgiving dinner at your fingertips.

Ingredients:
– 1 package (12-count) King’s Hawaiian Rolls
– 1 pound leftover turkey breast, (or deli turkey)
– ½ cup cranberry sauce
– 1 cup stuffing
– 6 slices provolone cheese
– ½ cup gravy
– ¼ cup butter, (melted)
– ½ teaspoon garlic salt
– ½ teaspoon fresh parsley, (minced)
– ½ teaspoon salt

How to Make Leftover Turkey Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. While it heats up, spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to ensure easy removal of the sliders later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

Split the rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves in the prepared baking dish so they form a sturdy base for your sliders.

Step 3: Layer Your Ingredients

Top each bun with layers of leftover turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, provolone cheese, and drizzle with gravy. Ensure each slider is generously filled for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Mix Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter with garlic salt, fresh parsley, and salt until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Sliders

Place the tops of the buns back on top of your layered ingredients. Use a pastry brush to generously apply the melted butter mixture over each slider top.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is hot and bubbly beneath.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Remove the foil from the baking dish and continue to bake for an additional five minutes. This will help achieve that perfect golden brown color on top of your sliders.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven. Slice into individual sliders and serve warm. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

How to Serve Leftover Turkey Sliders

Leftover Turkey Sliders are versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these sliders can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience.

Casual Gatherings

• With Chips: Serve the sliders with a side of crispy potato chips for a crunchy contrast.
• Veggie Platter: Add a colorful veggie platter with ranch dip to complement the savory flavors of the sliders.

Family Dinners

• With Salad: Pair the sliders with a fresh garden salad, offering a refreshing balance to the richness of the turkey.
• Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable or chicken soup makes for a comforting side dish that works well with sliders.

Game Day Parties

• Buffalo Wings: Include spicy buffalo wings for those who enjoy a kick alongside their sliders.
• Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs are always a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

How to Perfect Leftover Turkey Sliders

To make your Leftover Turkey Sliders even more delicious, follow these simple tips that will elevate your dish.

• Bold Flavor Combinations: Use flavorful sauces like barbecue or honey mustard to enhance the taste.
• Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and high-quality cheese to boost flavor and texture.
• Layer Wisely: Stack ingredients thoughtfully to ensure each bite has balanced flavors.
• Serve Warm: Always serve the sliders warm for gooey cheese and a delightful experience.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding sliced pickles or jalapeños for an extra zing.
• Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the buns before assembling for added crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Leftover Turkey Sliders

Pairing your Leftover Turkey Sliders with the right side dishes can take your meal to another level. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: These baked or fried fries offer a sweet contrast that pairs well with turkey.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the sliders.
3. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is always a hit; its comfort complements the sliders perfectly.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables provide color and healthy nutrients alongside your meal.
5. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans add depth and heartiness, making it a filling option.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob brings sweetness and complements turkey beautifully.
7. Potato Salad: A classic potato salad offers creaminess that pairs nicely with turkey flavors.
8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds refreshing sweetness, making it an ideal palate cleanser between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Leftover Turkey Sliders, it’s easy to overlook a few essential details that can impact the final result. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Ignoring Roll Quality: Not all rolls are created equal. Use fresh or high-quality rolls for the best texture and flavor.
• Overstuffing Sliders: While it’s tempting to pile on the fillings, overstuffing can lead to messy sliders. Stick to the recommended amounts for balance.
• Skipping the Butter Mixture: This step adds flavor and helps achieve a golden crust. Don’t skip it; it makes a big difference!
• Not Covering with Foil Initially: Covering sliders during baking ensures even heating and keeps them moist. Leave the foil on for the first part of cooking.
• Neglecting to Let Cool Before Serving: Serving sliders immediately can make them fall apart. Let them cool slightly for easier handling.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover turkey sliders in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Leftover Turkey Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Leftover Turkey Sliders

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place sliders on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place one slider on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 30-45 seconds or until warmed.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and grill the sliders for about 2-3 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of cranberry sauce in Leftover Turkey Sliders?

You can use apple sauce or even a sweet chutney as an alternative to cranberry sauce, providing a different but delightful flavor.

Can I customize my Leftover Turkey Sliders?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, or different cheeses to enhance your sliders.

How do I reheat Leftover Turkey Sliders without drying them out?

Using the oven is ideal as it warms them evenly while retaining moisture. Covering them with foil also helps prevent drying out.

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them the night before and store them in the fridge. Just bake when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Leftover Turkey Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile. They capture all the flavors of Thanksgiving in each bite and are perfect for any occasion. You can easily customize them with your favorite ingredients or sides as well. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how simple yet satisfying it is!

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