Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring
This Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring combines the heartiness of turkey with the sweet tang of cranberry. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a satisfying weeknight dinner, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Quick to prepare, this recipe brings festive cheer to your table!
Why This Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe Works
This recipe is not only simple to make but also showcases the wonderful combination of flavors that turkey and cranberry bring to the table. The crescent dough provides a flaky and buttery exterior that perfectly contrasts with the savory filling. Using pre-cooked turkey makes this dish a great leftover option, saving time in the kitchen.
The blend of cream cheese, garlic, and onion powder adds a depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the cranberry sauce. Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes, making it a satisfying dish for all ages. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, it’s sure to impress your guests.
💡 Professional Tip
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the turkey mixture. This can elevate the dish and add freshness. Additionally, make sure not to overfill the crescent dough to avoid tearing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the crescent ring ahead of time. Just refrigerate the assembled ring and bake it when ready to serve for the best results.
You can use rotisserie chicken or shredded pork as a delicious alternative. These will maintain the savory profile while offering a different taste.
Check for a golden-brown color on the dough, which indicates it's fully cooked. Additionally, the filling should be hot and bubbly.
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but uncooked crescent ring. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then bake it directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
You'll need a baking sheet, mixing bowl, and a spoon for assembling the ingredients. Parchment paper can be useful for easy cleanup.
Pair this ring with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a festive touch, serve with additional cranberry sauce on the side.
To adjust the spice level, incorporate some red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne to the filling. This will enhance the flavor without overpowering the dish.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness before serving.
Recipe Troubleshooting Guide
Too Dry
Problem: This can occur if the filling lacks enough moisture or if it's overcooked.
Solution: Ensure your cranberry sauce is well-blended with the turkey and consider adding a bit of broth for moisture before baking.
Uneven Cooking
Problem: Sometimes the outer edges may cook faster than the center.
Solution: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking to promote even heat distribution and check for doneness in the middle.
Lacking Flavor
Problem: A bland taste can occur if seasonings are insufficient.
Prevention: Taste the filling before assembly and adjust the seasonings, adding salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance flavor.
Wrong Texture
Problem: The crescent dough may become soggy if not baked correctly.
Recovery: Make sure to bake until golden and allow it to cool slightly before serving to help set the filling.
Overcooked
Problem: If the ring is overcooked, it can become tough.
Prevention: Always monitor your baking time and use a timer to avoid overbaking. Trust your instincts if it looks done earlier.
Flavor Balance
Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, adding a pinch of salt can help counterbalance the sweetness.
Too Salty: To balance excess saltiness, serve with a drizzle of fresh lemon juice or a side of unsweetened yogurt.
Bland: Increase flavor with herbs or spices or a splash of citrus juice to brighten the dish.
Choosing the Best Ingredients
Selecting quality ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor in this recipe. Opt for fresh turkey if possible, or a high-quality pre-cooked option to save time. For the cranberry sauce, homemade or store-bought will work, but check for real fruit content.
Cream cheese should be softened to blend easily, so let it sit out for a bit before mixing. Fresh herbs can also enhance the flavor profile, adding freshness and depth. Keep an eye on the expiration dates of your ingredients for optimal results.
Essential Ingredient Notes
- Cooked Turkey: Use shredded, cooked turkey for the best texture and flavor. Leftover turkey works perfectly for this dish, making it a great choice for holiday meals.
- Cranberry Sauce: Choose a cranberry sauce that is not overly sweet to balance the savory filling. You can also make your own for a fresher taste.
- Crescent Roll Dough: Opt for high-quality crescent roll dough that rises well during baking. This will ensure a flaky, buttery crust that complements your filling.
Cooking Technique Tips
Proper assembly is crucial for achieving the perfect crescent ring. Ensuring the dough is evenly laid out helps it bake uniformly. Be sure not to overstuff the filling, which can lead to tearing.
After baking, allow the ring to cool slightly before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes for easier serving. A serrated knife works best for clean cuts.
Chef's Secret Technique
For an extra crispy crust, consider pre-baking the crescent dough for a few minutes before adding the filling. This will help avoid sogginess. Additionally, brushing the dough with butter before baking adds flavor and enhances browning.
Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring
📋 Ingredients
For the Coating:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded💡 Essential ingredient
- 1 cup cranberry sauce💡 Essential ingredient
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened💡 Essential ingredient
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder💡 Essential ingredient
For the Main Dish:
- 1 teaspoon onion powder💡 Key ingredient
- 2 packages crescent roll dough💡 Key ingredient
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese💡 Key ingredient
- 1 egg, beaten for egg wash💡 Key ingredient
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the crescent ring cooks evenly.
In a large bowl, combine shredded turkey, cranberry sauce, cream cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until well blended.
Unroll the crescent roll dough and lay it in a circular pattern on a baking sheet, overlapping the edges slightly. This creates a ring for your filling.
Spoon the turkey mixture into the center of the crescent dough. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mixture.
Fold the dough over the filling, tucking the ends under to seal. Brush the top with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps the filling set slightly.
Slice and serve warm, garnished with additional cranberries if desired. Enjoy your savory creation!
Recipe Notes & Tips
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness before serving again.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this crescent ring with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It’s also delicious with extra cranberry sauce or gravy on the side.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as adding spinach or different cheeses for a unique twist. You can also try using pesto instead of cranberry sauce for a savory flavor profile.