Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring

The holidays are over, but that doesn’t mean the feasting has to stop! Are you staring down a mountain of leftover Thanksgiving turkey? I know the feeling. This Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring is the answer to your prayers. It’s a delicious, easy way to transform those leftovers into a crowd-pleasing appetizer or light meal. Imagine flaky, golden crescent rolls embracing a savory filling of tender turkey, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and creamy cheese. This isn’t just another leftover recipe; it’s a flavor explosion that will have everyone begging for more.

I’ve been perfecting this recipe for years, ever since my first Thanksgiving hosting gig left me swimming in turkey and cranberries. After much experimenting, I’ve landed on a combination of ingredients and techniques that guarantee success every time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is foolproof. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – feel free to customize the filling with your favorite herbs, cheeses, or vegetables. Get ready to turn those leftovers into a holiday hero

Ingredients for Your Crescent Ring

Let’s gather the ingredients for this delightful ring! Quality ingredients are key to achieving the best flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Crescent Roll Dough: 2 (8 ounce) cans. Look for refrigerated crescent roll dough sheets if you want a seamless look. The dough provides the flaky base for our ring.
• Cooked Turkey: 2 cups, shredded or diced. Leftover Thanksgiving turkey is perfect, but you can also use rotisserie chicken or deli turkey in a pinch.
• Cranberry Sauce: 1 cup. Homemade or store-bought works great. Opt for whole berry cranberry sauce for added texture.
• Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened. This adds creaminess and helps bind the filling together. Neufchâtel cheese is a lower-fat alternative.
• Swiss Cheese: 1 cup, shredded. Adds a nutty, slightly tangy flavor. Gruyere or mozzarella are good substitutes.
• Green Onions: 1/4 cup, chopped. For a fresh, oniony bite. Chives can be used instead.
• Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon. Adds a touch of tang and depth of flavor.
• Dried Sage: 1/2 teaspoon. Sage complements the turkey and cranberry flavors beautifully. Thyme or rosemary can also be used.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Seasoning is crucial to balance the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.
• Egg Wash: 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water (optional, for a shinier crust).

Ingredient Science & Substitution Tips:

• Crescent Roll Dough: The chemical leavening in crescent roll dough, usually baking powder, creates air bubbles that give the rolls their characteristic flaky texture. Make sure your dough is fresh for the best rise.
• Turkey: Turkey is an excellent source of lean protein and B vitamins. If using deli turkey, choose a low-sodium option.
• Cranberry Sauce: Cranberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C. The acidity of the cranberry sauce balances the richness of the turkey and cheese.
• Cream Cheese: Cream cheese provides a smooth and creamy texture thanks to its high fat content. Allow it to soften fully for easy mixing.

Expert Tips for a Perfect Crescent Ring

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to ensure this crescent ring turns out perfectly every time. Here are my top tips:

• Don’t overfill the ring: Too much filling can cause the crescent rolls to burst open during baking.
• Seal the seams tightly: This will prevent the filling from leaking out.
• Bake until golden brown: The crescent rolls should be a deep golden brown color for the best flavor and texture.
• Let it cool slightly before slicing: This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to slice.
• Customize the filling: Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or dried cranberries for extra flavor and texture.

Storage & Substitutions

Leftover Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices for a quick and easy snack.
• Freezing: While the baked crescent ring can be frozen, the texture of the crescent rolls may change slightly upon thawing. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Substitutions:

• Turkey: Use leftover rotisserie chicken, ham, or even vegetarian protein crumbles.
• Cranberry Sauce: Substitute with other fruit preserves, such as raspberry or apricot.
• Swiss Cheese: Gruyere, mozzarella, or cheddar cheese will also work well.
• Crescent Rolls: Puff pastry can be used as a substitute, but the baking time may need to be adjusted.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this crescent ring ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the crescent ring ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the dough from drying out. Add the egg wash right before baking for the best results.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Gruyere, mozzarella, cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack would all be delicious in this recipe.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Definitely! Chopped celery, onions, or sautéed mushrooms would be great additions to the filling. Just make sure to cook the vegetables before adding them to the ring.

How do I prevent the crescent rolls from burning?

Keep a close eye on the crescent ring while it’s baking. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning. Baking at a slightly lower temperature can also help.

Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?

Yes, homemade cranberry sauce works perfectly in this recipe. In fact, it might even be better than store-bought! Just make sure it’s not too runny, as this can make the filling soggy.

What can I serve with this crescent ring?

This Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad, soup, or a simple vegetable dish. It’s perfect for a light lunch, brunch, or appetizer.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, this recipe is generally kid-friendly, as it features familiar flavors like turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese. However, you may want to adjust the amount of Dijon mustard or other seasonings depending on your child’s preferences. You can even get kids involved in assembling the ring for a fun family activity!

Your New Go-To Leftover Recipe

So there you have it – the ultimate Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring recipe! This is more than just a leftover recipe; it’s a way to extend the holiday spirit and enjoy those delicious flavors in a new and exciting way. It’s quick, easy, and infinitely customizable, making it a winner in my book. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a satisfying snack, this crescent ring is sure to please.

Now it’s your turn! Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think in the comments below. Don’t forget to share your photos on social media using #TurkeyCranberryRing – I can’t wait to see your creations! And for more delicious holiday recipes, be sure to check out my other posts on Cranberry Brie Bites, Leftover Turkey Shepherd’s Pie, and Thanksgiving Stuffing Muffins. Happy cooking!

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