Absolutely! While these sliders are an incredible way to utilize actual Thanksgiving leftovers, you can easily prepare them even without them. For stuffing, opt for a good quality boxed stuffing mix like Stove Top. For the turkey, thinly sliced deli turkey (such as carved turkey breast) works wonderfully. And for cranberry sauce, a can of jellied or whole berry cranberry sauce is perfectly acceptable and widely available. This flexibility makes these sliders a fantastic year-round option, not just limited to the post-holiday period.

Yes, definitely! The beauty of sliders lies in their versatility. While turkey is traditional for Thanksgiving, you can easily switch it out or add to it with other cooked meats. Leftover ham from Christmas or Easter makes a fantastic substitute, offering a slightly different flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with the sweet rolls and glaze. Shredded rotisserie chicken or even thinly sliced roast beef can also be excellent choices. Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand or what your family enjoys most!

The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing these sliders! Think of them as a blank canvas for all your favorite holiday flavors. Consider adding a layer of creamy mashed potatoes for an extra comforting touch – it surprisingly works! For those who enjoy a little heat, a few slices of jalapeños or banana peppers will provide a fantastic spicy kick. Other popular additions include a drizzle of leftover gravy (added just before serving or lightly warmed in the center), crispy fried onions for crunch, or even sautéed mushrooms and onions for an earthy depth. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

Absolutely! Adding cheese is a fantastic idea and highly recommended for an extra layer of flavor and gooey texture. Swiss cheese offers a nutty, slightly sweet complement, while Gruyère provides a rich, savory depth. Cheddar is always a crowd-pleaser, melting beautifully and adding a familiar tang. Provolone or even a blend of mozzarella would also work well, creating that desirable stretch and creaminess when baked. Place the cheese slices directly on top of the turkey layer before adding the cranberry mixture for perfectly melted goodness.

While you technically *can* skip the glaze, we strongly advise against it! The homemade glaze is truly what elevates these from a good leftover sandwich to an absolutely spectacular one. It provides a crucial balance of savory butter, tangy Worcestershire, pungent dried onion, and a hint of sweetness from the rolls, all tied together with the subtle nuttiness of poppy seeds. This unique flavor combination permeates the top buns as they bake, creating an incredibly moist, flavorful, and golden-brown crust that makes these sliders unforgettable. It’s the secret ingredient that makes them truly special!

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), they can be stored in an airtight container or covered tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat for optimal enjoyment, an air fryer or toaster oven works best, as it helps crisp up the rolls and melt the cheese (if added) beautifully, taking about 5-10 minutes at 300-350°F (150-175°C). You can also reheat them in a conventional oven, covered loosely with foil, for about 10-15 minutes. While a microwave will warm them, it may make the rolls slightly soft, so it’s not the preferred method if you want that lovely toasted texture.