Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a delightful and innovative dish with this Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Pizza. This recipe is a perfect way to repurpose leftover turkey and cranberry sauce into something exciting and new. Combining the savory flavors of turkey with the sweet tartness of cranberry sauce on a crispy pizza crust, topped with cheeses and fresh vegetables, makes this pizza a festive and flavorful post-holiday meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pizza crust (or homemade if preferred)
- 1 cup leftover cooked turkey, shredded
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup baby spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Preheat the Oven:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet or pizza stone by placing the pizza crust on it.
Prepare the Crust:
Step 2: Brush the crust with olive oil. This helps to create a golden, crispy base that will hold up to the toppings.
Spread the Sauce:
Step 3: Evenly spread the cranberry sauce over the prepared pizza crust, creating a uniquely sweet and tart base layer.
Layer the Toppings:
Step 4: Distribute the shredded turkey evenly across the crust. Add baby spinach and thinly sliced red onion on top of the turkey.
Add Cheese:
Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over all the toppings. Add crumbled goat cheese if using, to introduce a creamy tang that complements the other flavors.
Bake:
Step 6: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust edges are golden brown.
Garnish and Serve:
Step 7: After removing the pizza from the oven, garnish it with chopped fresh rosemary for an aromatic touch and season with salt and pepper. Slice and serve while hot.
Variation
For a smoky flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or drizzle with a balsamic reduction after baking.
Cooking Note:
Ensure the toppings are distributed evenly to allow each slice of pizza to have a balanced mix of flavors and textures.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this pizza as a main course for a casual family dinner or slice it into smaller pieces for a unique appetizer during holiday gatherings.
Tips:
- If using a homemade pizza crust, pre-bake the crust for a few minutes before adding toppings to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing to let the cheese set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4 servings
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze this pizza?
A: Yes, this pizza can be frozen before or after baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Q: What other cheeses can I use on this pizza?
A: Swiss or Gouda cheese can make great alternatives to mozzarella and goat cheese, adding a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Pizza is not only a creative way to use up leftovers but also provides a delicious and easy meal that breaks the monotony of traditional holiday flavors. This dish proves that leftovers can be transformed into an exciting and gourmet experience with just a little creativity and effort.
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Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Pizza
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pizza crust (or homemade if preferred)
- 1 cup leftover cooked turkey, shredded
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup baby spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet or pizza stone by placing the pizza crust on it.
Prepare the Crust:
Step 2: Brush the crust with olive oil. This helps to create a golden, crispy base that will hold up to the toppings.
Spread the Sauce:
Step 3: Evenly spread the cranberry sauce over the prepared pizza crust, creating a uniquely sweet and tart base layer.
Layer the Toppings:
Step 4: Distribute the shredded turkey evenly across the crust. Add baby spinach and thinly sliced red onion on top of the turkey.
Add Cheese:
Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over all the toppings. Add crumbled goat cheese if using, to introduce a creamy tang that complements the other flavors.
Bake:
Step 6: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust edges are golden brown.
Garnish and Serve:
Step 7: After removing the pizza from the oven, garnish it with chopped fresh rosemary for an aromatic touch and season with salt and pepper. Slice and serve while hot.
Variation
For a smoky flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or drizzle with a balsamic reduction after baking.
Notes
Ensure the toppings are distributed evenly to allow each slice of pizza to have a balanced mix of flavors and textures.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this pizza as a main course for a casual family dinner or slice it into smaller pieces for a unique appetizer during holiday gatherings.
Tips:
- If using a homemade pizza crust, pre-bake the crust for a few minutes before adding toppings to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing to let the cheese set slightly, making it easier to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving