Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring

The aroma of Thanksgiving is year-round comfort in my book, y’all. And this Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring? Well, it’s pure Texas comfort food, elevated. Picture this: flaky crescent rolls embracing a warm, savory filling of turkey, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and just a hint of cream cheese. I’ve made this crescent ring at least a dozen times in my own kitchen, experimenting with different cheeses and herbs until it reached peak deliciousness. It’s become a family favorite, especially on those busy weeknights when I need something satisfying on the table fast. This recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles to your table, offering a delightful twist on classic Thanksgiving flavors any time of year.

Why This Recipe Works

As a busy mom, I need recipes that are both delicious and practical. This Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring checks all the boxes. Here’s why it’s a winner:

• Quick and Easy: It comes together in under an hour, perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Kid-Approved: Even my pickiest eater loves the combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberry.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the filling with your favorite cheeses, herbs, or veggies.
• Impressive Presentation: The crescent ring looks beautiful and is perfect for potlucks or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 (8-ounce) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
• 1 (14-ounce) can whole berry cranberry sauce
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Notes

Turkey: Leftover Thanksgiving turkey is ideal, but you can also use deli turkey or even rotisserie chicken. Just make sure it’s cooked and shredded or diced into small pieces.

Cranberry Sauce: Whole berry cranberry sauce adds a beautiful texture and burst of flavor. You can use jellied cranberry sauce, but the texture will be slightly different.

Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is key for a smooth and creamy filling. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before mixing.

Herbs: Dried sage and thyme are classic Thanksgiving flavors that complement the turkey and cranberry. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or poultry seasoning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling. In a large bowl, combine the shredded or diced turkey, cranberry sauce, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, chopped celery, chopped onion, pecans or walnuts (if using), dried sage, and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. I always taste the filling at this point and adjust the seasoning to my liking. Sometimes I add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!

Step 2: Arrange the Crescent Rolls. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet. On a clean surface, unroll both cans of crescent roll dough. Arrange the triangles in a circle on the prepared baking sheet, with the wide ends overlapping in the center and the points facing outward. The points will create the decorative outer edge of the ring.

Step 3: Fill the Ring. Spoon the turkey and cranberry filling evenly over the wide, overlapping ends of the crescent rolls, forming a ring shape. Leave about an inch of the inner edges clear so you can easily fold the points over the filling.

Step 4: Form the Ring. Gently fold the points of the crescent rolls over the filling, tucking them under the wide ends to seal the ring. This creates a beautiful, enclosed ring. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; a little imperfection adds character!

Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash and Garnish. In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush the entire surface of the crescent ring with the egg wash. This will give it a golden-brown color and a beautiful sheen. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds, if desired, for added texture and visual appeal.

Step 6: Bake. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent ring is golden brown and the filling is heated through. After testing this several times, I learned that rotating the baking sheet halfway through baking ensures even browning.

Step 7: Cool and Serve. Let the crescent ring cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice. Serve warm and enjoy!

Expert Tips from My Kitchen

• Prevent Soggy Bottom: To avoid a soggy bottom crust, bake the crescent ring on a preheated baking sheet.
• Time-Saving Shortcut: Use pre-shredded turkey or rotisserie chicken to save even more time.
• Flavor Boost: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to the filling for a cheesy flavor.
• Kid-Friendly Adjustment: Omit the nuts if you have kids who are picky eaters or have allergies.
• Make-Ahead Trick: Prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes assembly even faster.
• Reheating Tip: Reheat leftover slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Perfectly Golden Crust: If the crust starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent it with foil.

Storage & Meal Prep

Storage: Store leftover Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Make-Ahead: The filling can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the crescent ring just before serving.

Substitutions & Variations

Gluten-Free: I haven’t personally tested this, but you can try using gluten-free crescent roll dough. Be sure to check the baking time, as it may vary.

Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

Vegetarian: Replace the turkey with cooked lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Add some sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.

Seasonal Twist: In the fall, add some diced apples or butternut squash to the filling for a seasonal flavor. For a festive Christmas version, add a sprinkle of dried cranberries and chopped fresh rosemary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Assemble the crescent ring just before baking for the best results. You could also assemble the whole ring and keep it refrigerated (unbaked) until ready to bake; however, the crescent dough is best when freshly baked.

How do I know when it’s done?

The crescent ring is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through. A toothpick inserted into the center of the filling should come out warm.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère. Each cheese will add a unique flavor to the filling.

Can I freeze this crescent ring?

I don’t recommend freezing the entire assembled crescent ring, as the texture of the crescent dough may change. However, you can freeze the filling in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, it is! My kids love this recipe. The combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberry is a hit with most children. You can omit the nuts if you have kids who are picky eaters or have allergies.

What can I do if my crescent dough is too sticky?

If your crescent dough is too sticky, lightly flour your work surface before unrolling it. This will prevent it from sticking and make it easier to work with.

Can I add other vegetables to the filling?

Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the filling. Just make sure to sauté them before adding them to the mixture.

Serving Suggestions

This Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it a complete meal:

• Serve with a side salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
• Pair it with a bowl of creamy tomato soup for a comforting meal.
• Offer a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for dipping.

For plating, simply slice the crescent ring into individual servings and arrange them on a platter. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a few extra cranberries for a festive touch.

Portion sizes will vary depending on the appetites of your family or guests. I usually estimate 1-2 slices per person.

This Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a reminder of family gatherings and comforting flavors. I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen, bringing joy to your table and making those busy weeknights a little bit easier. Now, y’all go on and give it a try! I can’t wait to hear what you think! Don’t forget to share your results in the comments below! And if you’re looking for more family-friendly recipes like this one, be sure to sign up for my newsletter at FamiliesRecipes.com, where I’m always cooking up something delicious.

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