Hey food lovers! Nadia Amin here, ready to tantalize your taste buds with my irresistible Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Pizza recipe! Trust me, this pizza is a game-changer for utilizing those post-Thanksgiving leftovers in a whole new and delightful way. Picture this: the savory goodness of tender turkey mingling with the tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce, all perfectly melted together with a generous amount of creamy mozzarella cheese. It’s like Thanksgiving on a pizza, and I guarantee you won’t be able to resist a second helping!
Nadia Amin is a culinary connoisseur and a passionate food blogger, known for her creative recipes and innovative ideas. With years of experience in the culinary world, Nadia has honed her skills and developed a unique approach to cooking. Originally from Morocco, Nadia draws inspiration from the rich flavors and spices of her culture, infusing them into her dishes to create truly memorable meals. When she’s not experimenting in the kitchen, Nadia loves exploring new restaurants, traveling the world, and documenting her food adventures on her blog.
Nadia Amin currently resides in the United States and grew up in Morocco.
Growing up in the vibrant and flavorful country of Morocco, where spices and bold flavors are central to our cuisine, this recipe holds a special place in my heart. Combining the traditional flavors of Thanksgiving with my Moroccan roots, I’ve created a pizza that pays homage to both cultures. It’s a beautiful fusion of diverse tastes and textures, showcasing the versatility of culinary traditions.
Now, you might be wondering where this unique recipe comes from. Well, let me take you on a little culinary journey! Did you know that incorporating turkey into pizza is a beloved tradition in certain regions of Italy? Inspired by this delightful combination, I decided to put my own spin on it by infusing it with the flavors of Thanksgiving. The result is a mouthwatering creation that brings together the best of both worlds – the comforting familiarity of Thanksgiving and the exciting innovation of pizza. It’s a feast for the senses, and every bite tells a story of culinary adventure and cross-cultural connection.
What you need
Get ready to transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a mouthwatering masterpiece with my irresistible Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Pizza! This divine creation combines the savory goodness of leftover turkey, the tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce, and the creamy delight of melted mozzarella cheese. It’s like Thanksgiving on a pizza! First, roll out the pizza dough into your desired thickness and spread a delicious layer of cranberry sauce. Then, sprinkle on the shredded turkey, red onion slices, and fresh rosemary. Top it all off with a generous amount of mozzarella cheese, and pop it into the oven for a golden crust and bubbly perfection. Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh parsley for an eye-catching touch. Slice it up, savor each bite, and watch as your taste buds do a happy dance. This recipe is the ultimate treat for enjoying your Thanksgiving leftovers in a whole new and delightful way. Trust me, you won’t be able to resist a second helping!
Ingredients:
- Pizza dough – The foundation of the pizza, the dough provides a delicious base for all the toppings. You can either make your own or use store-bought dough for convenience.
- Leftover turkey – Leftover turkey from Thanksgiving adds a savory and hearty element to this pizza. If you don’t have turkey, you can substitute it with cooked chicken.
- Cranberry sauce – The tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce complements the turkey perfectly, giving the pizza a unique and festive twist. If you don’t have cranberry sauce, you can use a thin layer of cranberry jelly or even cranberry chutney.
- Mozzarella cheese – Mozzarella cheese melts beautifully and adds a creamy and gooey texture to the pizza. Feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties like cheddar or provolone.
- Red onion – The sharp and slightly sweet flavor of red onion pairs well with the other ingredients, providing a nice contrast. If you’re not a fan of onions, you can omit them or substitute with sliced shallots.
- Fresh rosemary – Rosemary adds a fragrant and earthy flavor to the pizza. If you don’t have rosemary, you can use dried rosemary or substitute with other fresh herbs like thyme or sage.
- Salt – Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and brings everything together. Adjust the amount based on your preference and dietary needs.
- Black pepper – Black pepper adds a subtle hint of spice and depth to the pizza. Freshly ground pepper is recommended for the best flavor.
- Olive oil – Brushing the pizza dough with olive oil before baking helps to create a crisp and golden crust. You can also use melted butter or any other cooking oil you prefer.
- Fresh parsley – Fresh parsley adds a vibrant and fresh touch to the finished pizza. It’s optional but highly recommended for added visual appeal.
Utensils:
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet or pizza stone
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Pastry brush
Cranberry Sauce
Ah, cranberry sauce, the quintessential Thanksgiving condiment. It may not be the star of the show, but it certainly adds a burst of tangy sweetness to every bite. Did you know that cranberries are native to North America? They were used by Native Americans for their medicinal properties long before they became a holiday staple. Not only are cranberries delicious, but they are also packed with nutrients. Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, they can help boost your immune system. Just keep in mind that cranberry sauce, when consumed in large quantities, can be high in sugar. However, in moderation, it adds a delightful flavor profile to this pizza and helps to balance out the savory turkey. Forget about cranberry sauce only making an appearance once a year – it deserves to be enjoyed year-round!
Mozzarella Cheese
Who can resist the ooey-gooey goodness of mozzarella cheese? It’s no wonder it’s a favorite when it comes to pizza toppings. Mozzarella cheese originated in Italy and is famous for its stretchy texture and mild flavor. Did you know that the word ‘mozzarella’ comes from the Italian word ‘mozzare,’ which means to cut? This cheese is traditionally made by cutting the curd into small pieces. While mozzarella is not considered the healthiest cheese option out there, it does provide a good amount of protein and calcium. Plus, it’s just so darn delicious! The melted mozzarella on top of this turkey and cranberry pizza adds a creamy and indulgent element that perfectly complements the other flavors. So go ahead and embrace the cheesy goodness – your taste buds will thank you!
What to serve it with?
To bring out the full potential of my Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Pizza, I highly recommend serving it with a side of fresh arugula salad dressed with a light lemon vinaigrette. This simple yet vibrant salad is the perfect companion to the rich and indulgent flavors of the pizza. The peppery bite of the arugula beautifully contrasts with the creamy mozzarella and adds a refreshing element to each bite. As a food lover who is passionate about combining flavors and textures, I personally adore the way this salad complements the pizza, creating a well-balanced and satisfying meal. Plus, the bright green colors of the salad add a pop of freshness to the plate, making it visually appealing as well. Give it a try, and your taste buds will thank you!
Summary
And there you have it, my lovely readers, my delectable Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Pizza! I hope you’re as excited as I am to dive into this culinary masterpiece and savor every delightful bite. Now it’s your turn to experience the magic in your own kitchen. Give it a try and let me know in the comments how your pizza turned out! Did you add any personal twists? How did your family and friends react to this unique flavor combination? I can’t wait to hear your stories and see your mouthwatering photos. Remember, the joy of cooking is all about sharing and connecting, and I’m here to help make that happen. Until next time, happy cooking and bon appétit!
Here’s the recipe:
Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Pizza
Equipment
- Rolling Pin
- Baking sheet or pizza stone
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife
- cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or Fork
- Pastry Brush
Ingredients
- 1 pound Pizza dough
- 2 cups Leftover turkey
- 1/2 cup Cranberry sauce
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup, thinly sliced Red onion
- 1 tablespoon, chopped Fresh rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 1 tablespoon, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the pizza dough - If using store-bought pizza dough, follow the package instructions for thawing if necessary. If making your own dough, prepare it according to your favorite recipe or use a pre-made dough mix. Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size, then punch it down and shape it into a round ball.
- Preheat the oven - Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature for baking pizza. This is typically around 450°F (230°C). Place a baking sheet or pizza stone in the oven as it preheats to ensure a crisp crust.
- Roll out the dough - On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness. If you prefer a thin and crispy crust, roll it out more thinly. For a thicker crust, leave it slightly thicker. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a lightly greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Add the toppings - Spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust. Next, sprinkle the shredded leftover turkey over the cranberry sauce. Evenly distribute the red onion slices, mozzarella cheese, and chopped fresh rosemary on top. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Bake the pizza - Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Keep an eye on it as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
- Garnish and serve - Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a minute or two. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Slice the pizza into wedges using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, and serve warm. Enjoy your unique and delicious Thanksgiving leftover turkey and cranberry pizza!
