Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

This Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is not just a delightful treat; it’s a celebration of flavors that makes great use of leftover turkey. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking for an easy family dinner, this recipe offers both simplicity and a festive flair. The combination of flaky crescent roll dough, savory turkey, and sweet cranberry sauce creates a unique dish that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious dish ready in no time.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Transform leftover turkey into something new and exciting.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great as a main dish or an appetizer for gatherings and parties.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The mix of turkey, cheese, and cranberry sauce creates a mouth-watering taste sensation.
• Festive Presentation: Its ring shape makes it visually appealing, perfect for holiday celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for baking the crescent ring evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Pastry brush: Ideal for applying egg wash for that golden finish.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Dough

• 2 cans (8 ounces each) refrigerated crescent roll dough

For the Filling

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
• 1/2 cup whole cranberry sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

For the Topping

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Rolls

Unroll the crescent rolls and arrange them in a circular shape on the lined baking sheet. The wide ends should overlap in the center to form a ring.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the shredded turkey, cranberry sauce, cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and thyme. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Ring

Spoon the turkey mixture evenly around the ring where the dough overlaps.

Step 5: Fold Over Dough

Fold the pointed ends of the dough over the filling and tuck them under to secure everything inside.

Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash

Using a pastry brush, apply beaten egg over the top of the dough. This will give it a beautiful golden color when baked.

Step 7: Bake

Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes or until the crescent dough turns golden brown.

Step 8: Serve

Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring!

How to Serve Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

The Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, these serving suggestions will make your meal memorable.

Casual Family Dinner

• Pair with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty touch.

Holiday Feast

• Present it on a festive platter, garnished with fresh herbs.
• Accompany with cranberry sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Game Day Snack

• Cut into smaller pieces for easy sharing during the game.
• Serve with dipping sauces like ranch or barbecue for added enjoyment.

Brunch Delight

• Offer it as part of a brunch buffet alongside fruit and pastries.
• Pair with mimosas (non-alcoholic versions) or sparkling juice for a festive drink option.

How to Perfect Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

To ensure your Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use cold ingredients: Keeping your ingredients cold will help the crescent dough stay flaky and rise beautifully while baking.
• Don’t overfill: Be careful not to overstuff the ring; this will prevent the dough from sealing properly and may lead to spills during baking.
• Seal the edges well: Make sure to tuck and seal the pointed ends of the dough tightly to keep the filling inside while baking.
• Adjust cooking time: Depending on your oven, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Keep an eye on the color of the dough; it should be golden brown when done.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

Complementing your Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
2. Steamed Green Beans – Lightly seasoned green beans provide a crisp texture and vibrant color to your plate.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Caramelized Brussels sprouts add depth of flavor that pairs well with turkey and cranberry.
4. Sweet Potato Casserole – A sweet and savory dish featuring mashed sweet potatoes topped with pecans or marshmallows for added crunch.
5. Cranberry Walnut Salad – A refreshing salad made with mixed greens, cranberries, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette dressing.
6. Vegetable Medley – A colorful mix of seasonal vegetables sautéed in olive oil and herbs adds nutrition and taste.
7. Quinoa Pilaf – Nutty quinoa cooked with vegetables provides a wholesome grain option that complements the main dish nicely.
8. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy macaroni adds comfort food appeal, making it especially popular among families.

These side dishes will not only complement the flavors of your Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring but also create a balanced meal that everyone will enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you perfect your Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring.

• Overfilling the dough – Adding too much filling can cause the crescent rolls to burst. Ensure you only use enough filling to allow the dough to seal properly.
• Skipping the egg wash – Not brushing the top with egg will result in a dull finish. Always apply an egg wash for a beautiful golden crust.
• Not preheating the oven – Baking in an unheated oven can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat your oven before baking.
• Using cold ingredients – Cold filling can lead to uneven baking. Allow your turkey and other ingredients to come to room temperature before mixing.
• Ignoring cooling time – Cutting into the ring too soon can result in messy servings. Let it cool slightly before slicing for cleaner pieces.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for best flavor and quality.

Freezing Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Use medium heat, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave in short intervals of 30 seconds until heated.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through, which helps maintain crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring.

Can I make the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What can I use instead of turkey?

You can substitute turkey with cooked chicken or even beef for different flavor profiles while keeping it delicious.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is great for meal prep and can be stored easily.

How do I customize my Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring?

Feel free to add other ingredients like spinach or different cheeses for variety!

Final Thoughts

The Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is not only festive but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for using up leftovers or preparing for family dinners. Experiment with different fillings or garnishes to make it your own!