Turn your holiday leftovers into a crowd-pleasing meal with Thanksgiving Sliders, featuring tender turkey and savory stuffing tucked into sweet Hawaiian rolls. A quick bake in the oven transforms them into warm, melty bites that everyone loves for a laid-back lunch or post-feast snack.
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Ingredients for Thanksgiving Sliders
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these delicious Thanksgiving Sliders. I love how the sweet rolls, savory fillings, and tangy sauce come together.
For the Sliders
- Hawaiian Sweet Rolls – Their soft, slightly sweet flavor is perfect here. Keep them whole and slice horizontally for easy assembly.
- Shredded Cooked Turkey – Leftover roasted turkey works beautifully, or use store-bought rotisserie for a shortcut.
- Prepared Turkey Gravy – Warm it slightly so it spreads easily. Homemade or store-bought both work!
- Prepared Stuffing – Use your favorite kind—classic herb or sage-forward is ideal.
- Cranberry Sauce – Jellied or whole-berry, whichever you prefer. Just don’t skip it—the tangy sweetness is key.
- Provolone Cheese – Mild and melty, it holds everything together.
For the Glaze
- Unsalted Butter – Melted and mixed with the other ingredients for that irresistible glossy finish.
- Honey – Balances the mustard with a touch of sweetness.
- Dijon Mustard – Adds a subtle tang—don’t substitute yellow mustard here.
- Garlic Powder – A little goes a long way for savory depth.
Cook Time for Baked Thanksgiving Sliders
One of my favorite things about this Thanksgiving Sliders recipe is how quickly it comes together. You can have these warm sliders with cranberry sauce on the table in less time than it takes to clean the kitchen after the big feast!
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
If you find yourself with extra time and want to try making your own rolls from scratch, I have a wonderful recipe for soft dinner rolls that would be divine here.
How to Make Holiday Leftover Sliders
Here’s my step-by-step guide for assembling these savory sliders on sweet rolls. The process is wonderfully straightforward, making it a perfect project for a relaxed post-holiday morning.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using a pastry brush or paper towel.
Step 2: Slice the Rolls
Using a serrated knife, slice the entire package of Hawaiian sweet rolls in half horizontally, keeping the top and bottom halves intact to form two large slabs.
Step 3: Layer the Fillings
Place the bottom slab of rolls into the greased baking dish. Layer the shredded turkey evenly over the rolls, followed by the prepared stuffing, cranberry sauce, and slices of provolone cheese. This creates the foundation for your toasted holiday leftover sandwiches.
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
Place the top slab of rolls over the layered fillings to reassemble the sliders. It’s like putting together a delicious puzzle!
Step 5: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Step 6: Brush on the Goodness
Using a pastry brush, generously coat the top of the sliders with the butter mixture, ensuring it seeps into the crevices between the rolls. This is the secret to that beautiful, golden finish.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the sliders from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before using a sharp knife to cut along the perforations to serve individual sliders. The result is the most wonderful baked turkey and stuffing sliders you can imagine.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make these Thanksgiving Sliders even more special. Here are my favorite ways to customize this easy holiday appetizer to suit your taste and what you have on hand.
- Flavor Swap: If you’re craving a different twist, try substituting the turkey with a flavorful spinach and feta turkey burger mixture for a Greek-inspired version.
- Diet Tweaks: For a lighter option, you can use low-fat cheese and brush the tops with olive oil instead of the butter glaze. The sliders will still be wonderfully satisfying.
- Texture Fix: To prevent the bottom roll from getting soggy, spread a thin layer of softened butter or cream cheese on it before adding the turkey and gravy. It creates a delightful barrier.
- Storage Tip: These melty provolone cheese sliders reheat beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container and warm them in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes to restore their crispness. They also pair wonderfully with other healthy Thanksgiving sides if you’re planning another small gathering.
Thanksgiving Sliders
Ingredients
- 1 package Hawaiian sweet rolls 12 count
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 2 cups shredded cooked turkey
- 1 cup prepared turkey gravy
- 1 cup stuffing prepared
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 8 slices provolone cheese
Equipment
- baking dish
- small bowl
- pastry brush
- oven
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Slice the entire package of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms intact to create two large slabs.
- Place the bottom slab of rolls into the prepared baking dish and layer on the shredded turkey, followed by the stuffing, cranberry sauce, and finally the provolone cheese slices.
- Place the top slab of rolls over the layered fillings to reassemble the sliders.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder until fully combined.
- Using a pastry brush, generously brush the entire butter mixture over the top of the sliders, ensuring it soaks into the crevices between the rolls.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is visibly melted.
- Remove from the oven and let the sliders rest for 5 minutes before slicing along the perforations to serve individual sliders.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
While these Thanksgiving Sliders are definitely a treat, I love that they still offer some nutritional benefits thanks to the lean protein and whole-food ingredients. Let’s break down what makes these warm sliders with cranberry sauce both delicious and nourishing.
Turkey provides excellent lean protein that helps keep you full and satisfied, while the cranberry sauce adds antioxidants. The whole meal comes together as a balanced option that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.
| Nutrient | Per Slider | Health Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 12g | Supports muscle maintenance |
| Fiber | 2g | Aids digestion |
| Vitamin C | 8% DV | From cranberry sauce |
For those watching their intake, remember that you can always adjust portion sizes or explore some of the lighter variations I mention later. If you’re looking for more balanced meal ideas, check out my collection of healthy Thanksgiving sides that pair beautifully with these sliders.
I also find that using homemade stuffing and cranberry sauce allows me to control the sodium and sugar content better. The Dave’s Killer Bread build-your-own sliders guide offers great insights on balancing flavors while keeping nutrition in mind.
A Lighter Version of Thanksgiving Sliders
Sometimes I want to enjoy these savory sliders on sweet rolls without feeling too heavy afterward. Over the years, I’ve developed some simple tweaks that lighten them up while keeping all the flavor we love.
First, I often use whole wheat Hawaiian rolls when I can find them – they add extra fiber and nutrients. For the cheese, reduced-fat provolone works beautifully and still gives you that wonderful melty texture. Instead of the butter glaze, I’ll sometimes brush the tops with a light olive oil and herb mixture.
Another favorite trick is to add extra vegetables to the filling. Sautéed mushrooms or spinach blend wonderfully with the turkey and stuffing. If you’re looking for more lean protein options, my chicken burgers recipe has some great tips that apply here too.
For those who love plant-based variations, you could even try a black bean burger mixture as a turkey alternative. The heartiness stands up well to the other Thanksgiving flavors while keeping things lighter.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
I know how important it is to adapt recipes for different dietary needs, especially during the holidays when everyone wants to feel included at the table. Over the years, I’ve learned several simple adjustments that make these Thanksgiving sliders accessible to more friends and family.
For those watching their sugar intake, you can easily create a diabetic-friendly version by using sugar-free cranberry sauce and reducing the honey in the glaze. I sometimes use a natural sweetener like stevia instead of honey, which works beautifully while keeping the glycemic impact low.
If you’re looking for low glycemic index options, consider using whole grain rolls and increasing the protein content with extra turkey. Portion control also helps – sometimes I make mini sliders using dinner rolls instead of the full-sized version.
For gluten-free needs, simply use your favorite gluten-free rolls and stuffing. The rest of the ingredients naturally work well for various dietary preferences, making these toasted holiday leftover sandwiches quite versatile.
How to Serve Thanksgiving Sliders
I’ll never forget the first time I served these sliders at our post-Thanksgiving gathering. My uncle, who usually heads straight for the leftover turkey sandwiches, took one bite and declared them “the best thing to happen to leftovers since gravy.” Now they’re a requested tradition every year.
These baked turkey and stuffing sliders are wonderfully versatile. I love serving them as the main attraction for a casual lunch with a simple green salad, or as part of a larger spread for game day parties. They pair beautifully with both traditional Thanksgiving flavors and more contemporary sides.
For breakfast or brunch gatherings, these melty provolone cheese sliders are absolutely perfect alongside morning favorites. If you’re planning a Christmas morning feast, check out my Christmas breakfast ideas for more inspiration.
Don’t forget about dessert! After enjoying these savory treats, I love offering something sweet like the options in my healthy Thanksgiving desserts collection. The contrast between the warm, savory sliders and a light, sweet ending makes the meal feel complete and special.
Mistakes to Avoid
Over the years of making these Thanksgiving sliders, I’ve learned a few common pitfalls that can make or break your results. Let me share what to watch for so your baked turkey and stuffing sliders turn out perfectly every time.
One mistake I made early on was overstuffing the rolls. When you pack too much filling, the buns won’t close properly and the delicious contents spill out during baking. I’ve found that about ¼ cup of the turkey and stuffing mixture per slider gives you that perfect balance without overflow.
Another common error is skipping the butter glaze. That golden, slightly sweet topping is what transforms these from simple sandwiches into something magical. If you’re looking for other great burger ideas that use similar techniques, check out my best burger recipe collection for inspiration.
For perfect assembly, I recommend following the Food Network’s pull-apart slider method which shows proper layering techniques. This ensures every bite has the right ratio of flavors and textures.
Don’t forget to let your sliders rest for 5 minutes after baking either – I learned this the hard way when my first batch fell apart! For more tips on working with different breads, my soft dinner rolls guide has helpful techniques that apply here too.
How to Store Thanksgiving Sliders
I’ll never forget the year my sister made two dozen of these sliders for our family gathering, only to have everyone devour them within minutes. She wisely tucked a few away in the fridge for later, and I’m so glad she did – they made the perfect midnight snack!
These holiday leftover sliders store beautifully when handled properly. Let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container – they’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I sometimes separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
For longer storage, you can freeze these savory sliders on sweet rolls for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in foil, then place in freezer bags. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again.
If you’re looking for other make-ahead options, my cottage cheese bagels are another great freezer-friendly recipe. For those with dietary restrictions, I’ve also had success with gluten-free bagels as a slider base that stores well.
Try This Thanksgiving Sliders Yourself
I still remember the first time I served these warm sliders with cranberry sauce to my book club – the chorus of “oohs” and “aahs” made me blush! There’s something magical about how these simple ingredients come together to create something greater than the sum of their parts.
Whether you’re using leftover Thanksgiving turkey or cooking up a fresh batch specifically for these turkey Thanksgiving sliders, I promise they’ll become a new family tradition. The combination of flavors and textures just works in the most comforting way possible.
If you love these melty provolone cheese sliders, you might also enjoy my spinach and feta turkey burgers for another twist on ground turkey. For game day or parties, my crack burgers are always a hit, while monster burgers satisfy even the biggest appetites.
For smaller gatherings, try my adorable mini egg burgers or experiment with different bread bases like these protein bagels. If you’re short on time, air fryer bagels make a quick and delicious alternative slider base.
However you choose to make them, these toasted holiday leftover sandwiches bring people together around good food and great conversation. I’d love to hear how your version turns out!
Frequently Asked Questions
Thanksgiving sliders with Hawaiian rolls?
Absolutely! Hawaiian rolls are my favorite base for these sliders – their slight sweetness perfectly complements the savory turkey and stuffing. The soft texture also toasts beautifully when baked with the butter glaze.
Thanksgiving sliders recipe?
This recipe combines leftover turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and provolone cheese between Hawaiian rolls, then bakes them with a sweet butter glaze. They’re one of the easiest holiday appetizers you’ll ever make!
Turkey sliders?
These Thanksgiving sliders are a fantastic way to use leftover turkey, but they also work wonderfully with freshly cooked ground turkey. For more turkey burger inspiration, check out my spinach and feta turkey burgers recipe.
Easy thanksgiving sliders?
These are some of the easiest holiday appetizers you can make – they come together in about 20 minutes using leftovers! The assembly is simple enough that even kids can help layer the ingredients before baking.
More Crowd-Pleasing Party Foods
If you loved these sliders, you’ll adore these other shareable recipes that always disappear fast at gatherings.
Crack Burgers – Irresistibly cheesy bacon burgers with a secret ingredient that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Monster Burgers – Giant, juicy burgers piled high with all the fixings for those extra hungry moments.
Mini Egg Burgers – Adorable sliders featuring a fried egg that creates the most delicious runny yolk sauce.
Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers – Lighter Mediterranean-inspired burgers bursting with fresh herbs and tangy cheese.
Herbed Chicken Burgers – Tender, flavorful patries with fresh herbs that make weeknights feel special.
Black Bean Burgers – Hearty plant-based burgers with amazing texture and Southwest spices everyone loves.
