Golden Turkey Cranberry Pizza

Created on October 27th, 2026 at 04:43 am

Introduction: Turkey Cranberry Pizza With Leftover Turkey

The holiday season is known for its array of delightful dishes, leaving us with an abundance of leftovers. One of the most delicious and creative ways to make use of that leftover turkey is to transform it into a Turkey Cranberry Pizza. This unique pizza combines the savory flavors of turkey with the sweet-tartness of cranberry sauce, all atop a crispy crust. It’s a holiday pizza that brings together the best of Thanksgiving flavors in a fun and unexpected way. For more inspiration, check out Christmas Leftover Turkey Pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is not only a fantastic way to use up leftovers, but it’s also an exciting twist on traditional pizza. The combination of turkey and cranberry sauce creates a taste that’s both familiar and novel. The dish is simple to prepare, making it perfect for a quick dinner after a busy holiday. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce family and friends to a new culinary experience.

A Perfect Post-Holiday Dish

After the Thanksgiving feast, you might find yourself with more turkey than you know what to do with. Instead of the usual turkey sandwiches or soups, why not try something different? This Turkey Cranberry Pizza turns leftovers into a gourmet delight, ensuring that the spirit of the holiday continues even after the main event. It’s a dish that celebrates the flavors of the season while bringing something new to the table.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients for the Pizza

To make this delightful pizza, you will need the following ingredients: a prepared pizza dough, leftover turkey, cranberry sauce, mozzarella cheese, and a few optional toppings like red onions and rosemary. These ingredients come together to create a pizza that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

Substitutions and Variations

If you’re looking to switch things up, there are plenty of substitutions you can make. For instance, try using a different type of cheese like Brie for a creamier texture. You can also add a sprinkle of walnuts for a bit of crunch. For those who prefer a vegetarian option, simply omit the turkey and add more vegetables like spinach or arugula.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F. Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface until it reaches your desired thickness. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased pizza pan or baking sheet, then precook the crust for about 5 minutes until it starts to firm up.

Assembling the Pizza

Spread a generous layer of cranberry sauce over the pre-baked crust. Evenly distribute the leftover turkey pieces over the sauce, followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. If desired, add thinly sliced red onions and a few sprigs of fresh rosemary for extra flavor.

Baking to Perfection

Place the assembled pizza in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips

To ensure your Turkey Cranberry Pizza comes out perfectly every time, follow these pro tips:

• Use a pizza stone for a crispier crust.
• Pre-cook the crust slightly before adding toppings to prevent sogginess.
• Experiment with different herbs like thyme or sage for added flavor.
• For a sweeter touch, drizzle some honey over the pizza before serving.

One of the most important tips is to not overload the pizza with too many toppings, as this can prevent the crust from cooking properly. Keeping a balance ensures each bite is flavorful and satisfying.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing with Side Dishes

This pizza pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a warm bowl of soup. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a side of roasted vegetables or a classic Caesar salad.

Beverage Pairings

To complement the flavors of the Turkey Cranberry Pizza, consider serving it with a light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing cranberry spritzer. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling apple cider is an excellent choice.

Nutritional Information

Calories and Macronutrients

Each slice of Turkey Cranberry Pizza contains approximately 320 calories, with a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It’s a satisfying meal that provides the energy you need without being overly indulgent.

Dietary Considerations

This recipe can be easily adapted to meet various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free pizza crust. To make it dairy-free, opt for a plant-based cheese alternative. With a few simple tweaks, this pizza can be enjoyed by everyone at your table.

Golden Turkey Cranberry Pizza

Zac

A delightful and creative way to use leftover turkey and cranberry sauce, this pizza combines classic holiday flavors with a new twist.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 8 slices

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• 1 pizza pan
• 1 oven preheated to 425°F
• 1 Spatula

Ingredients

  

Pizza Ingredients

• 1 prepared pizza dough
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 1/2 cups leftover turkey shredded
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
• 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
• 2 tsp fresh rosemary chopped

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 425°F. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer it to a lightly greased pizza pan.
• Place the pan in the oven and bake the crust for 5 minutes until lightly firmed.
• Spread cranberry sauce over the pre-baked crust. Layer with shredded turkey and sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly. Add red onion slices and rosemary.
• Return the pizza to the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.

Serving

• Allow the pizza to cool slightly, then slice and serve warm for the best flavor.

Storage

• Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use a pizza stone for a crispier crust. Pre-cook the crust slightly before adding toppings to prevent sogginess. Experiment with different herbs like thyme or sage for added flavor. For a sweeter touch, drizzle some honey over the pizza before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions: Try using Brie or Gouda cheese for a different flavor profile. Swap turkey for chicken if preferred.
How to Serve: Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the toppings ahead of time and store them separately. Assemble and bake the pizza when ready to serve.

Keyword leftover turkey recipes, thanksgiving pizza, Turkey Cranberry Pizza

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