Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring

Introduction:

The Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring is a festive and delicious dish perfect for using up leftover turkey. This easy-to-make recipe features crescent rolls encasing a savory filling of chive and onion cream cheese, Dijon mustard, tender turkey slices, and sweet cranberry sauce, all topped with Gruyere cheese. Ideal for holiday gatherings or a cozy meal, this ring is both flavorful and visually appealing.

Ingredients

• 1 tube crescent rolls
• 4 oz chive and onion cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 3 tsp finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme, divided
• 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese, divided
• 1 lb thinly sliced turkey (leftover or deli turkey)
• 1 (14 oz) can whole berry cranberry sauce
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp poppy seeds
• 1/2 tsp granulated garlic
• 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Prepare Crescent Rolls: Separate the crescent rolls and arrange them on the parchment paper in a circle with the widest portion on the inside and the edges overlapping.
3. Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and 1 tsp of rosemary or thyme. Spread this mixture over the widest portion of the crescent rolls. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheese.
4. Add Turkey and Cranberry: Arrange the turkey slices over the cheese, overlapping slightly. Spread half of the cranberry sauce over the turkey and top with the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
5. Form the Ring: Bring the narrow end of each crescent dough piece over the filling and tuck it underneath the ring to secure.
6. Add Toppings and Bake: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, poppy seeds, granulated garlic, and salt. Brush this mixture on top and sides of the crescent dough.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 22-24 minutes until golden. Allow to rest on the pan for 5 minutes.
8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the baked ring with the reserved 1 1/2 tsp of rosemary or thyme. Slice and serve with the remaining cranberry sauce on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 22-24 minutes
• Total Time: 37-39 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Options: Swap Gruyere cheese for cheddar or Swiss cheese.
• Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like sage or thyme for different flavor profiles.
• Add-Ins: Add cooked bacon or caramelized onions for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella instead of Gruyere.
2. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and bake just before serving.
3. Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce? Yes, store-bought cranberry sauce works well for this recipe.
4. How do I ensure the ring holds its shape? Make sure to tuck the ends of the crescent dough well to seal the filling inside.
5. Can I freeze the crescent ring? Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
6. What can I serve with this dish? Serve with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or extra cranberry sauce.
7. How do I prevent the crust from getting too brown? If the crust is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil during baking.
8. Can I use leftover turkey from Thanksgiving? Yes, this is a great way to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey.
9. How do I make it vegetarian? Skip the turkey and add extra vegetables or mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
10. Can I use homemade crescent dough? Yes, homemade dough can be used instead of store-bought.

Conclusion

The Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring is a delightful and convenient way to enjoy leftover turkey in a new and festive form. With its combination of savory and sweet flavors, it makes a perfect addition to holiday meals or any special occasion. Easy to prepare and impressive to serve, this crescent ring is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

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