You know those family gatherings where the food just seems to vanish off the table in a blink? Well, that’s exactly what happened the first time I made these Turkey & Stuffing Sliders for my family. We were all gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter, when I brought out these delightful little sandwiches. Within minutes, they were gone, and I found myself jotting down the recipe for everyone who asked! There’s something about the hearty combination of turkey and stuffing that screams holiday feast, and let’s be honest, the leftovers are sometimes the best part of any big meal.
The idea for these sliders came to me one year after Thanksgiving, when I stared at a fridge fully stocked with leftover turkey and fixings. I wanted to create something easy and fun, a dish that would bring the family together without all the fuss. Enter the humble slider. Using King’s Hawaiian rolls, which are basically little pockets of sweetness, I layered in delicious turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce – all the comforting flavors of the holidays in one bite-sized treat.
These sliders aren’t just about using up leftovers. They’ve become a tradition in our home, making appearances at potlucks, game nights, and even as a mid-week dinner when we’re feeling a bit nostalgic. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, and you can even customize them with different cheeses or mustards based on what you have in the kitchen. So, the next time you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest eaters will love, give these Turkey & Stuffing Sliders a try. Trust me, they won’t disappoint!
How to Make Turkey & Stuffing Sliders
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Ingredients:
- 1 cup warmed mashed potatoes (optional)
- 1 package (12-count) King’s Hawaiian rolls
- 1 pound sliced or shredded leftover turkey (or deli turkey)
- 6 Tablespoons melted salted butter
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 2 cups warmed stuffing
- 1 teaspoon finely minced fresh parsley
- 2 teaspoons dried minced onion
- 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 6 slices provolone, muenster, or havarti cheese (optional)
- 2 Tablespoons Dijon mustard
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Use cooking spray to lightly coat the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Carefully slice the package of King’s Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Set the bottom layer in the greased baking dish.
- Spread Dijon mustard over the cut surface of the rolls, then add a layer of warmed mashed potatoes if desired.
- Generously arrange the shredded turkey on top, sprinkling with coarse black pepper for added flavor.
- Evenly distribute cranberry sauce over the turkey, followed by a substantial layer of stuffing.
- Place the roll tops over the sliders. In a bowl, combine melted butter, minced onion, Worcestershire sauce, and parsley; brush over the rolls.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for 5-10 minutes until the tops are golden and everything is heated through.
- Use a sharp knife to separate the sliders. Serve warm and enjoy the flavors of the season!
Creative Substitutions to Suit Your Taste
If you don’t have King’s Hawaiian rolls, any soft dinner roll will work just fine. Swap turkey for chicken if preferred, and feel free to use whole cranberry sauce or a homemade version. For a dairy-free option, skip the cheese or try a plant-based alternative. Dijon mustard can be replaced with honey mustard for a sweeter twist.
Best Ways to Store Turkey & Stuffing Sliders Leftover
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in foil and place them in a sealed freezer bag for up to two months. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain their crispy texture.
The Best Accompaniments for Turkey & Stuffing Sliders
Pair these sliders with a fresh green salad or a bowl of creamy soup for a balanced meal. They also go well with a side of roasted vegetables or potato wedges. For drinks, consider serving with apple cider or a light, fruity white wine to complement the flavors.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Turkey & Stuffing Sliders
Use leftover turkey for added flavor and convenience. If you’re using deli turkey, warm it slightly to blend well with other ingredients. To prevent soggy sliders, don’t overfill with cranberry sauce. Brush the butter mixture right before baking for a glossy, delicious finish.
Adapting Turkey & Stuffing Sliders for Any Time of Year
In the spring, add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist. Summer sliders might include fresh greens or a slice of tomato. In the fall, consider adding a touch of cinnamon to the cranberry sauce, while winter versions can be spiced up with a hint of nutmeg.
Can I use a different type of bread for the sliders?
Yes, you can use any soft dinner rolls or slider buns available to you. Brioche buns or soft white rolls also work well, providing a similar sweetness and texture to the King’s Hawaiian rolls.
Are there any vegetarian options for this recipe?
You can omit the turkey and substitute with roasted vegetables like squash or sweet potatoes. Use vegetarian stuffing and vegetable stock to maintain the savory elements. Consider adding a layer of roasted mushrooms for a richer taste.
How can I make these sliders gluten-free?
To adapt this recipe for a gluten-free diet, use gluten-free rolls and stuffing. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as mustard and Worcestershire sauce, are labeled gluten-free. These substitutions will help maintain the delicious flavors of the sliders.
Is it possible to make these sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can assemble the sliders a day in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge and bake them just before serving to ensure they are fresh and warm. This makes them a convenient choice for busy holiday schedules.
What cheese varieties work best in these sliders?
Provolone, muenster, and havarti are all excellent choices, offering a creamy texture and mild flavor that complements the turkey and stuffing. If you’re feeling adventurous, try sharp cheddar or smoked gouda for a distinctive taste.
How can I make these sliders spicier?
If you prefer a little heat, add a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the turkey. You could also use a spicy mustard or pepper jack cheese to give the sliders an extra kick.
Turkey & Stuffing Sliders
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- microwave-safe bowl
Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed potatoes warmed (optional)
- 1 package King's Hawaiian rolls (12-count)
- 1 pound sliced or shredded leftover turkey (or deli turkey)
- 6 Tablespoons melted salted butter
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 2 cups warmed stuffing
- 1 teaspoon finely minced fresh parsley
- 2 teaspoons dried minced onion
- 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 6 slices provolone, muenster, or havarti cheese (optional)
- 2 Tablespoons Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cut the King's Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally and place the bottom half in the baking dish.
- On the cut side of the rolls, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard, followed by the warmed mashed potatoes, if using.
- Next, layer the shredded turkey onto the rolls, adding as much as you'd like, and sprinkle with coarse black pepper.
- Spoon cranberry sauce over the turkey, adding a layer of sweetness. Then, top with a generous helping of warmed stuffing.
- Place the top halves of the rolls back onto the stuffing. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine melted butter with minced onion, Worcestershire sauce, and parsley. Brush this mixture over the top of the rolls.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for 20 minutes. Then remove foil and continue baking for another 5 to 10 minutes until the tops are golden brown and everything is heated through.
- Once done, cut the sliders apart with a sharp knife and serve immediately while warm. Enjoy your meal!
