If you’re looking to capture the heart and soul of a Thanksgiving meal in a handheld, mouthwatering delight, this Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender turkey, savory stuffing, tangy cranberry sauce, and rich brown gravy, all snugly tucked inside a soft slider bun. It’s a perfect way to relive those cozy holiday flavors any day of the year, whether as a fun appetizer, a creative snack, or a lighter meal that still delivers that festive spirit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders just right is all about having the essential, simple ingredients that each bring their own unique charm to every bite. From the tartness of the cranberry sauce to the comforting texture of the stuffing, every element plays a crucial role in creating that classic holiday experience.
- Slider bun: Choose a soft and slightly sweet slider bun to hold all the flavors together without overpowering them.
- Cranberry sauce (1 1/2 tbsp): This adds a vibrant burst of tartness that perfectly complements the savory turkey and stuffing.
- Sliced turkey breast or thigh meat (2-3 oz): Use moist, tender turkey for that authentic Thanksgiving protein punch.
- Stuffing (2-3 tbsp): Whether homemade or store-bought, stuffing gives a comforting texture full of herbs and spices.
- Brown gravy (2 tbsp): This ties everything together with rich, savory notes that bring the whole slider to life.
How to Make Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bun and Cranberry Sauce
Start by slicing your slider bun in half horizontally. Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the bottom half. This layer not only adds a pop of color but also introduces that perfect balance of sweetness and tartness that wakes up your taste buds right from the start.
Step 2: Add the Turkey
Next, lay down two to three ounces of sliced turkey breast or thigh meat directly on top of the cranberry sauce. Using tender, well-seasoned turkey is key to keeping the slider juicy and flavorful, so make sure it’s sliced thin enough to stack easily but thick enough to enjoy the meat’s texture.
Step 3: Layer the Stuffing
Spoon two to three tablespoons of stuffing right on top of the turkey. This is that classic Thanksgiving element you don’t want to miss. The soft bread chunks mixed with herbs add a delightful blend of textures and that unmistakable holiday aroma.
Step 4: Drizzle the Brown Gravy
Pour about two tablespoons of warm brown gravy over the stuffing. This luscious gravy seeps into all the layers, adding moistness and bringing savory depth to the slider without making it soggy.
Step 5: Close and Enjoy
Finally, place the top half of the slider bun over your savory masterpiece. Gently press down so all the incredible flavors marry together. Now you’re all set to enjoy your Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Recipe that’s bursting with nostalgia and taste!
How to Serve Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
To make your sliders even more irresistible, consider adding a few simple garnishes like a leaf of fresh arugula or baby spinach for a slight peppery crunch. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley can brighten the whole plate as well. These touches don’t just add color; they introduce fresh flavors that cut through the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders pair wonderfully with classic sides such as crispy sweet potato fries or a crunchy green salad with a light vinaigrette. For a heartier spread, you might want to offer creamy mashed potatoes or roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze to keep the festive vibe going strong.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving these sliders at a party or gathering, try presenting them on a rustic wooden board with mini skewers to hold them together. You can also line a platter with colorful autumn leaves or cranberries for that extra seasonal touch. The presentation turns simple sliders into a centerpiece everyone will admire and want to dive into.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep their flavor and texture best within 2 to 3 days, so try to enjoy them while they’re still fresh.
Freezing
To freeze your Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for the best results.
Reheating
When reheating, unwrap the sliders and place them on a baking sheet. Warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until the turkey is hot and the bun is slightly toasted. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bun soggy and the stuffing unevenly heated.
FAQs
Can I use leftover Thanksgiving turkey for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works perfectly for these sliders and is a fantastic way to reduce waste while enjoying that iconic holiday flavor all over again.
What if I don’t have cranberry sauce on hand?
If cranberry sauce isn’t available, you can substitute with a tangy jam like raspberry or even a small smear of apple butter to maintain that sweet-tart contrast.
Is it okay to use store-bought stuffing?
Yes! Store-bought stuffing is a great shortcut and still adds the delicious herbaceous stuffing element. Just make sure it’s moist to avoid dryness in your sliders.
Can these sliders be made vegetarian?
For a vegetarian twist, try using roasted butternut squash or a hearty mushroom patty instead of turkey and pair it with vegetarian stuffing and gravy for a satisfying alternative.
How do I keep the slider buns from getting soggy?
Spreading a thin layer of butter or mayo on the inside of the buns before adding the fillings can help create a moisture barrier that keeps the buns intact and delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Recipe is a joyful celebration of holiday flavors condensed into a fun, easy-to-eat package. It’s perfect for sharing at family gatherings, casual get-togethers, or anytime you want a comforting taste of Thanksgiving without the fuss. Give it a try and I’m sure it’ll become a favorite go-to for bringing that festive magic to your table all year round.
Print
Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 slider
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders are a delightful mini sandwich combining classic holiday flavors like cranberry sauce, savory turkey, stuffing, and rich brown gravy. Perfect for using up Thanksgiving leftovers or serving as a festive appetizer, these sliders are quick to assemble and bursting with comforting tastes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 slider bun
- 1 1/2 tbsp cranberry sauce
- 2–3 oz sliced turkey breast or thigh meat
- 2–3 tbsp stuffing
- 2 tbsp brown gravy
Instructions
- Prepare the bun: Cut the slider bun in half horizontally to create a top and bottom piece, then evenly spread cranberry sauce over the bottom half to add a sweet and tangy base layer.
- Add the turkey: Layer 2 to 3 ounces of sliced turkey breast or thigh meat on top of the cranberry sauce. This forms the protein-rich center of your slider.
- Top with stuffing: Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of stuffing evenly on top of the turkey slices, providing a moist, herbed texture that complements the meat.
- Drizzle with gravy: Pour 2 tablespoons of warm brown gravy over the stuffing to add savory moisture and enhance the flavor profile.
- Assemble and serve: Place the top half of the slider bun over the gravy and gently press down to combine all ingredients. Enjoy your festive Thanksgiving slider immediately.
Notes
- For best flavor, use freshly warmed turkey and gravy.
- Customize your sliders with additional toppings like sliced cheese or lettuce if desired.
- These sliders can be prepared ahead of time and warmed briefly before serving.
- Perfect for holiday parties or casual family meals.
