Turkey and Cranberry Pizza

Introduction

Thanksgiving leftovers are a culinary treasure, but sometimes you need a fresh twist to keep things exciting. This Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Pizza has quickly become a family favorite in our home. Combining the rich flavors of turkey and cranberry sauce with gooey cheese and fresh veggies creates a delightful dish that’s both comforting and unique. My family was skeptical at first, but after the first bite, they were hooked! The pizza is not only quick to prepare but also a fun way to enjoy those leftovers without feeling like you’re eating the same meal again. If you’re looking for a way to revitalize your holiday leftovers, this pizza is the answer!

Ingredients

To make this delicious Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Pizza, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pizza crust (or homemade if preferred)
• 1 cup leftover cooked turkey, shredded
• ½ cup cranberry sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
• ½ cup baby spinach leaves
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the pizza crust on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
2. Prepare the Crust: Brush the crust with olive oil to create a crispy base.
3. Spread the Sauce: Evenly spread the cranberry sauce over the pizza crust, ensuring that it covers the entire surface.
4. Layer the Toppings: Top the cranberry sauce with shredded turkey, baby spinach, and thinly sliced red onion.
5. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. If you’re using goat cheese, crumble it over the pizza now.
6. Bake the Pizza: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the crust is golden.
7. Garnish: Remove the pizza from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh rosemary, salt, and pepper.
8. Slice and Serve: Slice the pizza and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: 320 kcal
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 480mg
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 16g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes

How to Serve

• Hot and Fresh: Serve the pizza hot right out of the oven for the best taste.
• Garnish: Add additional garnishes like fresh rosemary or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
• Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh salad or vegetable side for a complete meal.
• Cut into Wedges: Slice into wedges for easy serving, especially at gatherings.
• Leftover Lunch: This pizza is perfect for lunch the next day; simply reheat in the oven or microwave.

Additional Tips

1. Crispy Crust: For an extra crispy crust, pre-bake the pizza crust for 5 minutes before adding toppings.
2. Custom Toppings: Feel free to customize with other toppings such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch.
3. Cheese Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, consider using feta or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
4. Vegetarian Option: Omit the turkey for a delicious vegetarian version, adding extra veggies instead.
5. Make Ahead: You can prepare the toppings in advance and assemble the pizza just before baking for a quick weeknight meal.

Recipe Variations

• BBQ Turkey Pizza: Swap the cranberry sauce for barbecue sauce for a smoky twist on the original recipe.
• Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Cheesy Turkey Alfredo: Replace the cranberry sauce with Alfredo sauce for a creamy alternative.
• Herbed Crust: Incorporate herbs like garlic powder or Italian seasoning into the crust for added flavor.
• Pesto Pizza: Spread a layer of pesto on the crust before adding the other toppings for a herby flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side Salad: Serve alongside a mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pizza.
• Wine Pairing: A glass of light white wine or sparkling cider pairs well with the pizza’s flavors.
• Leftover Turkey Soup: Serve with a cup of turkey soup for a hearty meal that uses up more leftovers.
• Cheese Board: Create a small cheese board with assorted cheeses and crackers for a fun appetizer before the pizza.
• Holiday Gatherings: This pizza is perfect for holiday parties or casual get-togethers, making it an excellent addition to your spread.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the pizza (uncooked) by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of pizza crust?

• Yes, any type of pizza crust works, including cauliflower crust or whole wheat options.

1. What if I don’t have leftover turkey?

• You can use rotisserie chicken or even canned chicken as a substitute.

1. Can I make this pizza vegetarian?

• Absolutely! Just omit the turkey and consider adding more vegetables.

1. What other cheeses can I use?

• Feel free to substitute mozzarella with provolone, cheddar, or Monterey Jack.

1. How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

• Brush the crust with olive oil and pre-bake it for a few minutes to create a barrier.

1. Can I add other fruits?

• Yes, consider adding thin slices of apple for a sweet and crunchy addition.

1. How do I reheat leftovers?

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

1. Is this pizza kid-friendly?

• Definitely! The combination of flavors is appealing to both kids and adults.

1. How spicy is this pizza?

• The recipe is not spicy, but you can add jalapeños or red pepper flakes for heat.

1. What if I don’t have cranberry sauce?
   • You can substitute with apple sauce or a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce instead.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Pizza is a creative and delicious way to repurpose your holiday feast. With minimal preparation and cooking time, it transforms your leftovers into a fun and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. The combination of flavors—from the savory turkey and creamy cheese to the tangy cranberry sauce—creates a pizza that is both comforting and innovative. So next time you find yourself with leftover turkey, give this recipe a try. You’ll not only enjoy a delicious meal but also create new family traditions centered around your holiday leftovers!

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