Thanksgiving Twist: Turkey Cranberry Pizza Recipe for a Flavorful Leftover Makeover

Imagine the vibrant taste of tart cranberry sauce, savory turkey, and gooey melted cheeses, all layered on a crisp pizza crust. Turkey Cranberry Pizza is the ultimate way to transform your holiday leftovers into a creative and delicious dish. This recipe takes the best parts of Thanksgiving and reimagines them as a hearty, flavorful pizza that’s both quick to prepare and deeply satisfying. The first time I tried this combination, it instantly became a family favorite, and now it’s a post-holiday tradition in our home.

Photo byRecipe Smooth

Credit goes to the Recipe Smooth Facebook Group, where I discovered this fantastic idea, and I’m excited to share it here with you. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a post-Thanksgiving staple for you too!

This Turkey Cranberry Pizza isn’t just a way to use up leftovers; it’s a celebration of flavors. Turkey and cranberry sauce are quintessential holiday foods, and pairing them with cheese and a crispy crust brings together sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that feel festive yet comforting. Plus, the hint of rosemary and optional balsamic drizzle elevate the flavor even more. Here’s everything you need to make this amazing pizza at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pizza crust (12-inch)
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 cup cooked turkey, shredded
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet or pizza stone and place your pre-made pizza crust on top.
2. Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the pizza crust, using it as the base layer to add that initial burst of sweet-tart flavor.
3. Scatter the shredded turkey over the cranberry sauce layer, distributing it so each bite will have that savory turkey goodness.
4. Sprinkle the mozzarella and white cheddar cheeses evenly on top. The blend of cheeses gives a creamy texture and adds rich flavor to balance the tangy cranberry.
5. Add the thin slices of red onion for a mild bite and the fresh spinach leaves for a touch of color and earthy flavor. Then, sprinkle the chopped rosemary over the pizza to give it a fragrant, herbaceous note.
6. Season lightly with salt and pepper, adding a bit more to taste if needed.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese melts and turns bubbly, and the crust achieves a golden-brown color.
8. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the pizza before serving if desired. This optional step adds an extra layer of sweetness and acidity that pairs beautifully with the cranberry and cheese.

Turkey Cranberry Pizza is an ideal meal for any holiday leftovers, though it’s so good you might find yourself craving it even when you don’t have turkey on hand. Pair it with a side of mixed greens or a light soup, and you’ve got a delightful dinner that’s festive and flavorful.

Enjoyed this recipe? Let me know how it turned out in the comments, and feel free to share it with friends looking for unique ideas to repurpose their holiday meals! For more tasty recipes like this one, hit the follow button.