Halloween Phantom Pizza Pierogies

Introduction:

These Halloween Icky Intestines are a spooky and delicious twist on traditional stuffed crescent rolls. Shaped like creepy intestines and filled with a savory mix of turkey, marinara, and cheese, these treats are perfect for Halloween parties or a fun family dinner. Easy to prepare and sure to delight, they combine festive flair with tasty flavors.

Ingredients

For the Crescent Intestines:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon season salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 cup marinara pasta sauce, plus more for brushing
• 2 tubes crescent roll sheets
• 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella, plus more for topping

For the Garlic Butter:

• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Directions

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the red onion and red bell pepper, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
   • Add the ground turkey and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Season with garlic powder, season salt, and oregano.
   • Stir in 1 cup of marinara sauce, then remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Crescent Rolls:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Roll out the crescent dough sheets and cut each sheet into 3 long strips.
   • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella down the center of each crescent strip. Top with the turkey filling, then bring the sides of the crescent dough up and around the filling, pinching the edges to seal.
3. Shape the Intestines:
   • On the prepared baking sheet, twist and arrange the stuffed crescent rolls in a wavy, winding pattern to resemble intestines. Ensure there is space between the rolls as they will expand while baking.
4. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
   • In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder. Brush this mixture over the shaped crescent rolls.
5. Bake:
   • Bake the rolls for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and lightly brush with extra marinara sauce to give a “bloody” look.
   • Arrange any leftover turkey filling around the baked crescent rolls and sprinkle more mozzarella on top.
   • Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve:
   • Serve warm and enjoy the spooky, tasty Halloween fun!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 8-10 servings. The total preparation and cooking time is around 45 minutes.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground turkey with finely chopped mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor.
• Sauce Options: Use a different sauce like Alfredo or barbecue for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover stuffed crescent rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in a microwave, but the texture may be less crispy.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make these in advance?
   • Yes, you can prepare the filling and shape the crescent rolls ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
2. Can I freeze these stuffed crescent rolls?
   • Yes, you can freeze unbaked rolls. Assemble them and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
   • Absolutely, store-bought marinara sauce works perfectly for this recipe.
4. How can I make these rolls spicier?
   • Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the turkey filling for some extra heat.
5. Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent rolls?
   • Yes, puff pastry can be used for a flakier texture. Adjust the baking time as needed.
6. What can I use if I don’t have crescent roll sheets?
   • You can use pre-cut crescent roll dough or even homemade pizza dough.
7. Can I make these without cheese?
   • Yes, you can omit the cheese if you prefer a dairy-free option.
8. What if my crescent rolls don’t hold their shape?
   • Ensure the dough is properly sealed around the filling and use a little extra pressure to shape them.
9. How do I make these more festive?
   • Use Halloween-themed cookie cutters to shape the rolls before baking or add Halloween-themed sprinkles on top.
10. Can I use a different type of ground meat?
    • Yes, you can substitute with ground beef, chicken, or sausage as desired.

Conclusion

Halloween Icky Intestines are a fun and eerie addition to your Halloween festivities. With their creepy appearance and savory filling, these stuffed crescent rolls are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Easy to make and customize, they bring a festive and tasty twist to your Halloween menu. Enjoy this spooky treat and watch as your guests are both surprised and delighted by these delicious “intestines”!

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