As the aroma of roasted turkey lingers in the air and the last remnants of a festive feast beckon, I found myself pondering a delightful transformation. There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the hustle and bustle of Thanksgiving, and even more so when we can turn those cherished leftovers into something extraordinary. Enter the Thanksgiving Leftover Crescent Roll Ring a festive dish that not only celebrates the holiday flavors but also gives them a modern twist.
Imagine flaky, buttery crescent rolls enveloping layers of creamy mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, and tender turkey. This quick and easy appetizer is perfect for gathering friends and family around the table once more, inviting everyone to share in another round of deliciousness. Why not elevate your leftovers into a star? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this Thanksgiving Ring a must-try?
Transformative: This Thanksgiving Ring effortlessly reimagines your leftovers into a stunning dish that will wow your guests.
Flavor Explosion: The marriage of creamy mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, and tender turkey wrapped in buttery crescent rolls is a taste sensation.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward instructions and minimal prep time, you can whip this up in no time!
Shareable Delight: Perfectly sized for gatherings, it encourages everyone to dig in and enjoy together, fostering a warm, festive atmosphere.
Ingredient Flexibility: Customize the fillings based on your leftovers, ensuring no two rings are the same while minimizing waste.
Hearty Comfort: Each slice delivers warmth and nostalgia, making it a comforting dish that feels like a hug from home.
Thanksgiving Ring Ingredients
For the Dough
• Crescent Rolls – The flaky, buttery base that brings everything together; opt for store-bought for ease.
For the Filling
• Leftover Mashed Potatoes – Provides creaminess and substance; homemade or store-bought works perfectly.
• Leftover Stuffing – Adds essential flavor and texture; feel free to use any leftover variety.
• Shredded Leftover Turkey – The protein hero of the dish; chicken can easily stand in for turkey if needed.
• Leftover Cranberry Sauce – Offers a sweet and tangy element to balance the savory filling; consider a fruit chutney as a substitute.
For the Topping
• Melted Butter – Enhances richness and aids in achieving a golden color; olive oil can be a lighter substitute.
• Garlic Powder – Boosts flavor with ease; fresh minced garlic can be used for a stronger punch.
For Garnish and Dipping
• Fresh Parsley – Provides a pop of color and freshness; optional but beautiful for presentation.
• Leftover Gravy – A traditional complement that keeps the dish moist; you can always prepare quick homemade gravy if needed.
The versatility of the Thanksgiving Ring allows you to celebrate and savor every bite of your holiday leftovers!
How to Make Thanksgiving Ring
- Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven according to the crescent roll package instructions, usually around 375°F. This ensures a perfectly baked ring.
- Prepare dough: Roll out the crescent dough on a baking sheet, arranging the triangles in a circular shape, overlapping slightly to create a sturdy base.
- Layer filling: On one half of the dough, layer the leftover mashed potatoes, stuffing, shredded turkey, and a dollop of cranberry sauce. This combination makes for a flavorful explosion!
- Seal the ring: Carefully fold the other half of the dough over the filling, pinching the edges firmly to seal it shut. Make sure it’s well sealed to avoid any spills while baking.
- Add topping: Brush the ring generously with melted butter and sprinkle garlic powder on top for an extra layer of flavor. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly as it bakes!
- Bake to perfection: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and flaky. Keep an eye on it for that wonderful color!
- Serve warm: Once baked, let the Thanksgiving Ring cool slightly before serving it warm with a side of warmed gravy for dipping. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley to add a delightful touch of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Ring
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for the best texture.
Freezer: Wrap the Thanksgiving Ring tightly in plastic wrap and foil, storing it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for optimal flavor and texture.
Reheating: For the most satisfying results, reheat the ring in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it stays crispy on the outside while warm inside.
Thanksgiving Ring Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with these suggestions to make the recipe your own and delight your taste buds!
- Vegetarian Option: Replace turkey with sautéed mushrooms or cooked lentils for a hearty, plant-based filling that’s equally delicious.
- Extra Creaminess: Mix in cream cheese or shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella to the potato or turkey layer for a lush, melty texture.
- Herbed Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the filling for an aromatic twist that elevates every bite.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in some jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before sealing to give your ring a zesty heat that surprises the palate.
- Roasted Veggies: Incorporate leftover roasted vegetables to the filling for added nutrition and flavor, making sure to chop them finely.
- Sweet Twist: Drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the filling for an unexpected sweetness that plays off the savory elements.
- Flaky Topper: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top of the ring before baking for a flavorful crunch that enhances each mouthful.
- Dipping Sauces: Swap the gravy for a tangy ranch or smoky barbecue sauce to freshen up the flavor profile when serving.
Make Ahead Options
These Thanksgiving Rings are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prep the filling—including mashed potatoes, stuffing, and shredded turkey—up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep flavors fresh. When you’re ready to assemble, simply roll out the crescent dough, layer the prepared filling, and seal the ring as instructed. Remember to brush with melted butter and sprinkle garlic powder just before baking to ensure the top achieves that golden, flaky finish. This way, you can serve a delightful dish with minimal effort and maximum flavor, all while enjoying more time with your loved ones!
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Ring?
Let your Thanksgiving Ring shine by pairing it with delightful sides and drinks that complement its festive flavors.
- Crispy Green Salad: A fresh salad with crunchy greens and a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory ring.
- Garlicky Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal vegetables add depth and sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
- Savory Stuffing Bites: Mini stuffing balls infused with herbs mirror the flavors of the ring and create a comforting, cohesive dining experience.
- Tangy Cranberry Relish: Zesty and bright, this relish brings a vibrant pop that beautifully complements the rich turkey and creamy potatoes.
- Buttery Corn on the Cob: The sweetness and tenderness of corn on the cob create a delightful textural balance, adding a touch of summer to your feast.
- Herbed Mashed Potatoes: Reinforce your love for mashed potatoes by serving an herbed variation alongside your Thanksgiving Ring, amplifying comfort food vibes.
- Rich Gravy: Serve with extra warm gravy on the side for dipping, enhancing the savory taste while adding moisture to every bite.
- Decadent Pumpkin Pie: Wrap up the meal with a slice of creamy pumpkin pie, echoing the holiday spirit and offering a sweet finish.
- Sparkling Apple Cider: A fizzy, aromatic drink provides an uplifting contrast, delighting your guests with a playful twist to their toasting rituals.
Expert Tips for Perfecting Your Thanksgiving Ring
• Don’t Overstuff: Be mindful not to overstuff the ring to ensure it bakes evenly without spilling out.
• Seal It Well: Pinch the dough edges tightly to keep all that savory filling intact during baking.
• Monitor Baking Time: Check your Thanksgiving Ring towards the end of the baking time to avoid over-browning or undercooking.
• Warm Before Serving: Serve your ring warm and alongside leftover gravy for dipping to enhance the flavors.
• Experiment Freely: Feel free to incorporate different cheeses or vegetables into the filling for a personalized twist!
Thanksgiving Ring Recipe FAQs
What type of crescent rolls should I use?
Absolutely! For the Thanksgiving Ring, I recommend using store-bought crescent rolls. They yield that perfect flaky and buttery texture without any fuss. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade dough is also a fabulous option!
How should I store leftover Thanksgiving Ring?
Very well! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to maintain moisture. For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
Can I freeze the Thanksgiving Ring?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the Thanksgiving Ring tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as directed.
What can I substitute for leftover turkey?
Very easy! If you don’t have leftover turkey, shredded chicken works beautifully as a substitute. For a vegetarian option, consider using seasoned sautéed mushrooms or lentils to keep that hearty flavor intact. Just get creative with what you have!
How do I prevent the filling from spilling out while baking?
Great question! To avoid spilling, be mindful not to overstuff your Thanksgiving Ring. Leave a bit of space in the edges when you’re layering the fillings. Also, make sure to pinch the dough edges firmly to create a good seal before baking. This step is crucial for keeping all those delicious flavors inside!
How do I make homemade gravy to dip with the Thanksgiving Ring?
You’re in for a treat! To make a quick gravy, melt 1/4 cup of butter in a saucepan, whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, and cook for about 1-2 minutes until light golden. Gradually stir in 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, seasoning with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs. Simmer until thickened. Serve warm with your Thanksgiving Ring—it’s a perfect pairing!
Thanksgiving Ring: A Flaky, Festive Leftover Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F according to crescent roll package instructions.
- Roll out the crescent dough on a baking sheet, arranging the triangles in a circular shape.
- Layer leftover mashed potatoes, stuffing, shredded turkey, and cranberry sauce on one half of the dough.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and pinch edges to seal.
- Brush the ring with melted butter and sprinkle garlic powder on top.
- Bake for about 30 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.
- Let cool slightly before serving warm with gravy for dipping.