The kitchen was alive with the warm, inviting aromas of Thanksgiving as I triumphantly pulled my Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring from the oven. This delightful dish marries the comforting flavors of leftover turkey and sweet-tart cranberry sauce, all wrapped in buttery crescent dough. Not only does it make for a stunning centerpiece at any gathering, but it also comes together in just about an hour—perfect for busy weeknights or those surprise guests craving something special. The creamy filling and crispy exterior create a scrumptious harmony that will leave everyone coming back for a second slice. Are you ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that brings the essence of comfort food to your table?
Why Is This Recipe So Irresistible?
Comforting, the Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring is a fusion of classic flavors, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. Effortless preparation means you'll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with guests. Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or a light main dish, this recipe is perfect for cozy gatherings. Plus, it creatively repurposes leftovers, transforming post-holiday turkey into something extraordinary. If you're looking for more festive ideas, check out my tips on easy holiday appetizers to complement this mouthwatering dish!
Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Ingredients
For the Dough
• Refrigerated crescent roll dough – A buttery base that encases the flavorful filling.
For the Filling
• Cooked turkey, shredded – Provides a hearty, protein-packed core for the dish.
• Cranberry sauce – Adds a sweet-tart zing that perfectly complements the turkey.
• Cream cheese, softened – Creates a luscious, creamy texture that binds the filling.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully, enhancing the richness of the filling.
• Garlic powder – Infuses the dish with a savory depth that elevates the flavors.
• Onion powder – A hint of sweetness and earthiness that rounds out the filling.
• Dried thyme – Brings a touch of herbaceous warmth, making each bite delightful.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor profile.
For the Egg Wash
• Egg, beaten – This gives the crescent ring a beautiful golden color as it bakes.
For Garnish
• Fresh parsley, chopped – A pop of color and freshness to brighten the dish.
It's time to roll up your sleeves and create this stunning Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This crucial step ensures that your Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring turns out perfectly golden and delicious. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients and prepare your workspace for a smooth cooking experience.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded turkey, 1 cup of cranberry sauce, 1 cup of softened cream cheese, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well blended and creamy, which will create a delightful filling for your crescent ring.
Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Dough
Unroll the two cans of refrigerated crescent roll dough, gently separating them into triangles. On a large baking sheet, lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup, lay the crescent triangles in a circular pattern. Position the wide ends overlapping in the center, with the points extending outward, forming a beautiful star shape that will hold your savory filling.
Step 4: Add the Filling
Spoon the delicious turkey and cranberry filling onto the widest part of each crescent triangle. Be generous but avoid overfilling to ensure the dough can fold over completely. This filling will create a mouthwatering center that shines through once baked, making each bite of the Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring satisfying and rich in flavor.
Step 5: Fold the Dough
Carefully fold the points of each crescent triangle over the filling, tucking them underneath the ring to enclose the filling securely. This step is crucial for keeping the savory mixture contained while baking. Ensure that the filling is well hidden so that it bakes to perfection inside the dough.
Step 6: Apply the Egg Wash
Using a pastry brush, gently brush the beaten egg over the top of the crescent ring. This egg wash will give your Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring a lovely golden color and an appetizing sheen as it bakes. Make sure to cover all exposed dough for an even finish.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on your creation as it bakes, watching for the dough to turn golden brown and puff up slightly. When done, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma, signaling that it's almost time to enjoy!
Step 8: Cool and Garnish
Once the crescent ring is golden brown and bubbly, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This brief cooling period helps the filling set slightly. Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, adding a pop of color and a burst of freshness to your stunning Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring!
Make Ahead Options
These Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Rings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling (using the turkey, cranberry sauce, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper) up to 24 hours in advance. Just mix everything and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you're ready to bake, simply follow the steps from unrolling the crescent roll dough to filling and folding it, brushing with egg wash, and baking. This way, you’ll enjoy a homemade dish that’s just as delicious and satisfying while saving precious time for your busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring
The delightful burst of flavors in this dish invites a symphony of sides to create a truly memorable meal.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture balances the flaky crescent dough, adding a comforting element to your dinner table. A drizzle of gravy over the potatoes enhances this classic pairing beautifully.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans bring a fresh, vibrant contrast to the richness of the crescent ring, adding color and crunch to your plate. Toss in some garlic for an extra flavor kick!
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized edges and earthy flavor pair perfectly with the savory turkey and sweet cranberry, creating a harmony of tastes that lingers long after the meal.
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Apple Crisp: This warm dessert with its sweet, spiced filling and crunchy topping invites a cozy conclusion to your meal, echoing the flavors of the crescent ring. Serve with vanilla ice cream for a classic touch.
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Cranberry Mimosa: A bright and bubbly drink that echoes the dish's cranberry flavor while offering a refreshing contrast, making it perfect for festive gatherings.
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Buttery Cornbread: The sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread complements the rich and savory flavors of the crescent ring, adding a delightful crunch to every bite.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light, zesty salad with tangy vinaigrette balances the richness, offering a fresh palate cleanser amid the hearty main course.
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Stuffing Bites: Tiny, savory bites of stuffing can echo the dish’s turkey filling while providing a satisfying, crunchy texture that enhances your meal's comforting nature.
How to Store and Freeze Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
Freezer: Wrap the cooled crescent ring tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy your Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, allow the crescent ring to sit out for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and make this dish your own with these fun modifications!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the crescent dough with gluten-free puff pastry for a similar flaky texture without the gluten.
- Vegetarian: Swap the turkey with diced mushrooms and spinach for a savory, plant-based filling that’s just as satisfying.
- Add Spice: Mix in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling for a zesty kick that will awaken your taste buds.
- Cheesy Delight: Use a blend of cheeses, like pepper jack or gouda, to bring a creamy, flavorful twist to each slice.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or basil in your filling to elevate the flavor profile with an aromatic touch.
Try combining a few variations for a customized ring that suits your taste! If you're looking for more ideas, don't miss my suggestions on delicious side dishes to complement this flair of flavors!
Expert Tips for Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring
Prep Ingredients Early: Make sure to prep all ingredients before starting. This will make the assembly of the Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring much smoother.
Watch the Dough: Be cautious not to stretch the crescent dough too much while shaping. If it tears, you may lose the filling during baking!
Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling the triangles with the turkey mixture. Leaving enough space will ensure they fold properly and bake evenly.
Perfect Egg Wash: Brush the top of the dough generously with the beaten egg for that beautiful golden finish. This makes your crescent ring irresistibly appetizing!
Cool Before Serving: Allow the crescent ring to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier without spilling.
Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose fresh turkey that has been cooked recently or leftovers from a recent meal. The cranberry sauce should have a vibrant reddish hue without any dark spots or off-smells—this signals freshness. For the cream cheese, it should be soft with no discoloration. This attention to quality ensures your Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring is delicious!
How should I store leftovers of the Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring?
Very simply! Store any leftover crescent ring in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep the dough from drying out while retaining the filling's delicious flavors. When storing, let it cool to room temperature first to prevent condensation inside the container.
Can I freeze the Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring? If yes, how?
Yes, you can freeze it! Once your crescent ring has fully cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What if my crescent dough tears while assembling?
Not to worry! If your dough stretches or tears while you're shaping the crescent ring, just use a small piece of extra dough to patch it up. Simply compress the torn edges gently together, ensuring a good seal to keep the filling contained during baking. If you can't patch it, just keep a close eye on it as it bakes; it will still taste delicious!
Any allergies or dietary concerns with this recipe?
Definitely! This Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring contains common allergens including gluten (from the crescent dough), dairy (from the cream cheese and mozzarella), and eggs (in the egg wash). I recommend checking labels for gluten and dairy-free options if needed. This dish could also be tailored for dietary needs by swapping in a dairy-free cream cheese and ensuring your turkey is free from allergens.
Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring for Cozy Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded turkey, cranberry sauce, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough into triangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, forming a circular pattern.
- Spoon the filling onto the widest part of each crescent triangle, ensuring not to overfill.
- Fold the points of each crescent triangle over the filling and tuck them underneath the ring to enclose it.
- Brush the top of the crescent ring with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Keep an eye on it while baking.
- Let the crescent ring cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley.
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