Nothing says holiday comfort quite like a Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring. In this easy, eye-catching recipe, tender turkey and tangy cranberry sauce snuggle into a golden crescent dough crust with a luscious blend of Swiss cheese and herbs. Each slice delivers a burst of festive flavor and color, making this dish a true showstopper for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. If you’re hunting for a clever way to use up leftovers or just want something special (without fussing for hours), this is the recipe you’ll reach for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for your Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring is not only a breeze, but each one plays its own delicious part. You don’t need anything fancy for maximum flavor—just a handful of supermarket staples and a little creativity to pull it all together.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough: The buttery, flaky base that wraps everything up in a golden hug—don’t skip the parchment paper for easy lifting!
- Cooked turkey: Ideally leftover roast turkey, but any cooked turkey (shredded or diced) works wonders for this recipe.
- Whole berry cranberry sauce: Offers sweet-tart juiciness that pairs beautifully with the savory turkey.
- Shredded Swiss cheese: Gives the filling creaminess and a mild, nutty richness; mozzarella or provolone are tasty subs if needed.
- Mayonnaise: Adds a touch of moisture, binding the filling so it stays luscious, not dry.
- Dijon mustard: A spoonful makes all the flavors pop and lifts the savory notes for next-level flavor.
- Black pepper: Just a pinch perks up the turkey and balances the cranberry’s sweetness.
- Dried thyme: A sprinkle of this earthy herb whispers holiday warmth into every bite.
- Egg (beaten): Brushing the dough with egg wash ensures a deep, glossy finish that looks bakery-worthy.
- Optional: chopped parsley, for garnish: Fresh and bright, scattered parsley gives your finished ring that perfect pop of color.
How to Make Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring
Step 1: Mix the Filling
Grab a medium-sized mixing bowl and toss in your cooked turkey, cranberry sauce, shredded Swiss cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, a dash of black pepper, and that aromatic dried thyme. Stir everything together until it’s evenly mixed. The combo should look creamy with beautiful ruby swirls from the cranberry sauce—it’s already smelling incredible!
Step 2: Shape the Crescent Ring
Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into triangles. On a large, parchment-lined baking sheet, arrange the triangles in a circle with the wide ends overlapping slightly in the center and the tips fanning outward. Don’t worry about making it perfect—the rustic look is part of this dish’s charm! You should have what looks like a sunburst or wreath.
Step 3: Fill and Fold
Gently spoon your turkey filling evenly in a circle around the base of the dough triangles, keeping it consistent so every slice gets plenty. Now, take the pointed ends of each triangle, fold them back over the filling, and tuck them under the ring. This keeps all the goodness inside while baking and creates that signature, layered look.
Step 4: Add the Egg Wash
Brush the exposed dough on top with the beaten egg—this classic step guarantees a shiny, irresistible crust. Don’t forget the nooks and crannies! If you like, sprinkle a pinch more dried thyme or a crack of black pepper right over the top for a little extra flair.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Slide your creation into the preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the crescent ring turns a deep golden brown and the smell tempts every neighbor in a two-block radius. Let it cool for a few minutes straight from the oven—this helps the cheese set and makes the slices neater when you serve.
How to Serve Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring
Garnishes
Once you’re ready to present your Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring, go ahead and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top. The vibrant green instantly brightens the golden crust and hints at the herby flavors tucked inside. For a festive finish, a few extra dollops of whole berry cranberry sauce around the platter are always welcome.
Side Dishes
This savory ring is hearty but also quite versatile. Pair it with a crisp winter salad—think arugula, apples, and a light vinaigrette—for a refreshing contrast. Steamed green beans, a simple soup like butternut squash, or even classic mashed potatoes all round out the meal beautifully and bring a cozy holiday vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want your Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring to really steal the show, try placing it on a wooden cutting board garnished with sprigs of rosemary and some roasted nuts on the side. Alternatively, slice and fan the pieces out in a wreath shape on the platter for easy grabbing at potlucks, brunches, or holiday buffets.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, simply wrap the cooled slices tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to three days, making lunchtime the next day nothing short of delightful. The pastry softens a touch but still tastes fantastic.
Freezing
Want to get a jump on holiday meal prep? You can freeze your fully baked and cooled Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring. Slice it into portions, wrap each tightly, and store in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll stay fresh for up to two months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat slices in a 325°F (163°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and the crust crisps up again. The microwave works for quick lunches, though the dough is softer—pop the slices on a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second bursts to avoid dryness.
FAQs
Can I substitute chicken for the turkey?
Absolutely! Shredded or diced cooked chicken is a perfect swap for turkey in the Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring. It’ll still be delicious and every bit as comforting.
How can I make this ring vegetarian?
Simply replace the turkey with cooked, chopped mushrooms, roasted butternut squash, or even a mix of sautéed spinach and artichokes. Serve with extra cheese for an equally satisfying, meat-free option.
Do I have to use whole berry cranberry sauce?
You can use jellied cranberry sauce if that’s what you have on hand. The texture will be a little less chunky, but it’ll still provide the sweet-tart flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory elements.
My ring split open during baking. What happened?
This is usually from overfilling or not sealing the dough tips well under the ring. It’s still tasty even if not picture-perfect! Next time, try using a tad less filling or making sure the dough overlaps securely underneath.
Can I assemble this ahead of time and bake later?
Yes! You can prep the filled ring up to 4 hours in advance. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready, brush with egg wash and bake as directed, straight from the fridge (add a couple extra minutes to baking time).
Final Thoughts
I truly can’t wait for you to bake up this Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring, whether you’re hosting a crowd or need a clever way to reinvent leftovers. Each slice looks so inviting and packs a flavorful surprise—guaranteed to make everyone around your table smile. Give it a try and let this festive favorite find its way into your family’s seasonal traditions!
Print
Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring is a delightful way to enjoy Thanksgiving leftovers. A flavorful blend of turkey, cranberry sauce, and Swiss cheese tucked inside a golden crescent dough ring, this dish is perfect for a cozy holiday meal.
Ingredients
Crescent Ring:
- 2 (8 oz) tubes refrigerated crescent roll dough
Turkey Filling:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Additional:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, mix the turkey, cranberry sauce, Swiss cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and thyme until well combined.
- Assemble the ring: Unroll the crescent dough and form a ring with the triangles on the baking sheet. Spoon the turkey mixture around the base of the ring and fold the dough over the filling.
- Bake: Brush the dough with beaten egg and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- This recipe is a great way to repurpose holiday leftovers.
- Feel free to swap Swiss cheese with mozzarella or provolone.
- Pair with extra cranberry sauce or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
