Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

Why Make This Recipe

The Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is a delightful and simple dish that is perfect for any occasion, be it a holiday gathering, a casual family dinner, or even a festive brunch. It combines the flavors of turkey and cranberry, which are classic companions, especially during the holiday season. The soft, flaky crescent roll dough adds a comforting texture, while the melted cheese ties everything together with a rich flavor that everyone loves. This recipe is not just delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to choice for both seasoned cooks and those who are just starting out.

One of the best things about this dish is its flexibility. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey from a holiday meal, but you can also make it fresh with store-bought turkey or even rotisserie chicken. The combination of sweet cranberry sauce with savory turkey makes for a balance that’s hard to resist. The recipe is also quite forgiving and can be customized to include your favorite ingredients or those you have on hand. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy dinner for two, this crescent ring will surely impress.

How to Make Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

Making the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is straightforward and fun! Here’s how you can whip up this tasty dish in just a few easy steps.

Ingredients

To make the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring, you will need:

• 2 packages (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise or cream cheese
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Directions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your crescent ring will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

2. Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent the crescent rolls from sticking and makes for easier cleanup later.

3. Unroll the Crescent Dough: Open the packages of crescent roll dough and carefully unroll them. Lay the triangles out in a circular pattern on the baking sheet, with the wide ends forming a circle in the middle.

4. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, cranberry sauce, shredded cheese, mayonnaise (or cream cheese), Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until fully combined. The filling should be creamy and well seasoned.

5. Fill the Crescent Dough: Spoon the turkey mixture onto the wide ends of the crescent dough triangles. Make sure to keep the filling toward the center of the ring.

6. Fold the Dough: Take the pointed ends of the crescent triangles and fold them over the filling, going towards the center. This will create a closed ring with the filling tucked inside.

7. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until the crescent ring is golden brown and cooked through. The time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it towards the end.

8. Cool and Serve: Once it’s done baking, remove the ring from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Then, cut it into wedges and serve warm.

How to Serve Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

Serving the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is easy! It’s best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. You can plate the wedges and serve them as a main dish alongside a simple salad for a light meal or pair them with some mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a heartier dinner.

This dish is also fantastic for a buffet-style meal, where guests can help themselves to wedges throughout the event. Place the crescent ring on a decorative platter and don’t forget to offer some extra cranberry sauce or a light salad dressing on the side for added flavor.

For a festive touch, consider garnishing the ring with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary, which will also add a nice color contrast. This dish is appealing with its golden color and, when prepared carefully, looks impressive on any table.

How to Store Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

If you happen to have leftovers, storing the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is straightforward. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.

Store it in the refrigerator, where it should last for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it for longer, consider storing individual portions in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through.

For best results, avoid microwaving it, as this can make the crescent dough soggy. Reheating in the oven helps maintain that flaky texture.

Tips to Make Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring

• Use Leftovers Wisely: This recipe is a great way to use leftover turkey after Thanksgiving or any holiday meal. Shredded rotisserie chicken also works well for a quick and easy substitute.

• Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella or Swiss are excellent choices, feel free to mix it up! Cheddar, gouda, or even a bit of cream cheese can add different flavors and textures to the filling.

• Add More Veggies: For a fuller filling, consider adding some chopped vegetables, like spinach, bell peppers, or even diced onions. This can increase the nutritional value and give the dish more substance.

• Make It Ahead of Time: You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve it, making it a convenient option for gatherings.

• Gather Ingredients First: Before starting, make sure all your ingredients are on hand. This way, you can focus on mixing and assembling without interruption.

Variation

If you want to switch things up, here are a couple of variations you can try with the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring:

1. Veggie Delight Version: Instead of turkey, use a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a vegetarian option. Replace the cheese with a vegan alternative if needed.

2. Add Spice: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the filling mix. This will add an exciting kick to the otherwise sweet and savory dish.

3. Fruit and Nut Addition: Mixing in some chopped walnuts or pecans with the filling can introduce a nice crunch and added flavor. You can also try adding diced apples for a bit of sweetness and tartness.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought turkey for this recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought turkey such as deli turkey or rotisserie chicken. Just make sure to shred or chop it before mixing with the other ingredients.

2. Can I freeze the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring?

Absolutely! You can freeze individual portions after baking. Just ensure they are cooled completely, then wrap them tightly before placing them in the freezer. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

3. What’s the best way to reheat the leftovers?

The best way to reheat leftovers is in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This preserves the flaky texture of the crescent dough.

4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute the turkey with a mix of vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach for a delightful vegetarian version. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

5. What can I serve with the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring?

This dish pairs well with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with additional cranberry sauce on the side for dipping.

In conclusion, the Turkey Cranberry Crescent Ring is not just a great recipe for the holidays; it’s an easy and tasty dish that can be made throughout the year. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire! Happy cooking!

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