Name: Turkey and Cranberry Pizza Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ball (about 12 oz) pizza dough; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup cooked turkey, shredded or chopped; ½ cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied); ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup shredded white cheddar cheese; ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ¼ teaspoon dried thyme); Optional: 2 tablespoons crumbled goat cheese or feta; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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There’s nothing quite like turning leftovers into something completely unexpected, and Turkey and Cranberry Pizza does just that. This vibrant pie is a delicious fusion of savory and tart flavors, layered onto a crisp crust and topped with melty cheese and fresh herbs. Whether you’re using up holiday turkey or just craving a twist on classic pizza, this recipe brings together the best of Thanksgiving and pizza night in every bite.

Turkey and Cranberry Pizza Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Turkey and Cranberry Pizza is a breeze, and each one plays a key role in building flavor and texture. From the tangy cranberry sauce to the gooey cheese and tender turkey, these components come together to create a pizza that’s both comforting and a little bit adventurous.

Pizza dough: A fresh or store-bought dough forms the perfect base; aim for about 12 ounces for a classic 12-inch pie.
Cooked turkey: Shredded or chopped, leftover turkey is juicy and hearty, adding protein and richness.
Cranberry sauce: Whole berry or jellied both work, giving the pizza tang and a hint of sweetness.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: For that classic, stretchy melt and creamy flavor.
Shredded white cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, savory note that pairs beautifully with cranberry.
Red onion: Thin slices offer a mild bite and gorgeous color pop.
Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley brings a fresh, herbal finish right before serving.
Olive oil: Brushing the dough ensures a golden, crisp crust and adds a subtle richness.
Fresh thyme leaves (or dried): Just a teaspoon infuses earthy, aromatic flavor.
Optional goat cheese or feta: Crumbled on top, these cheeses add a creamy, tangy contrast.

How to Make Turkey and Cranberry Pizza

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, pop it in now to get nice and hot; otherwise, a sturdy baking sheet will work just fine. A blazing-hot surface is the secret to a crisp, golden crust that can hold up to all those tasty toppings.

Step 2: Shape the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a 12-inch round. Don’t worry if it isn’t perfectly circular; rustic shapes are part of the homemade charm. Once shaped, transfer the dough to a sheet of parchment paper for easy handling and a fuss-free transfer to the oven.

Step 3: Build the Base

Brush the surface of your dough lightly with olive oil. This helps develop a beautiful color and slight crunch as it bakes. Next, spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for that classic pizza look and a bit of handle room.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

Scatter the shredded turkey generously over the cranberry layer. Top with thinly sliced red onions, then sprinkle on both mozzarella and white cheddar cheeses for a perfect blend of creamy, sharp, and stretchy. Add the thyme leaves and, if you’re feeling fancy, a handful of crumbled goat cheese or feta for a tangy kick.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Using the parchment, carefully transfer your assembled pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and just beginning to brown in spots. The aroma will let you know it’s almost ready!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, shower the hot pizza with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley. This last touch adds color and a burst of freshness. Let the pizza cool for a couple of minutes, then slice and serve while it’s still warm and gooey.

How to Serve Turkey and Cranberry Pizza

Garnishes

The finishing touches can take your Turkey and Cranberry Pizza from great to unforgettable. A scattering of fresh parsley brightens up each slice, while a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving adds a touch of luxury. For a peppery bite, toss on a handful of arugula right after baking.

Side Dishes

This pizza shines as the centerpiece, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness, or try roasted Brussels sprouts for a cozy, autumnal vibe. If you’re feeding a crowd, offer a bowl of soup—like butternut squash or creamy tomato—alongside slices of your Turkey and Cranberry Pizza for a complete, comforting meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive gathering, slice the pizza into small squares or strips and serve as an appetizer or party snack. You can also make personal-sized versions on naan or flatbreads for a quick lunch. If you’re feeling extra playful, set up a “leftovers pizza bar” and let everyone build their own Turkey and Cranberry Pizza masterpiece with extra toppings like roasted veggies or different cheeses.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any slices left (which is never guaranteed!), let them cool completely before storing. Place slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld even more overnight, making for a tasty next-day lunch or snack.

Freezing

Turkey and Cranberry Pizza freezes surprisingly well. Once cooled, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months—just be sure to label and date the bag so you remember the treat waiting for you!

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat slices in a 375°F (190°C) oven on a baking sheet for about 8 minutes, or until the crust is crisp and the cheese is hot and melty again. You can also use a toaster oven or a hot skillet if you’re in a hurry. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it tends to make the crust a bit soggy.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic substitute if you don’t have cooked turkey on hand. The flavors will still pair beautifully with the cranberry sauce and cheeses, making for a deliciously easy twist on Turkey and Cranberry Pizza.

What kind of cranberry sauce works best?

Both whole berry and jellied cranberry sauce are great options. Whole berry gives you a bit more texture while jellied spreads more smoothly. Use whichever you prefer or have on hand—either way, it’ll add that signature sweet-tart flavor.

Can I make Turkey and Cranberry Pizza gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pizza dough or flatbread as the base. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you can easily adapt this recipe to suit dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

To avoid a soggy crust, make sure to preheat your pizza stone or baking sheet, and don’t overload the pizza with too much cranberry sauce or cheese. Brushing the dough with olive oil before adding toppings also helps create a moisture barrier.

Is there a vegetarian version of this pizza?

You bet! Simply swap the turkey for roasted butternut squash, mushrooms, or even caramelized onions. The cranberry, cheese, and herb combination is just as delicious with veggies as it is with turkey.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fun, flavorful way to reinvent holiday leftovers or just want to shake up your pizza routine, Turkey and Cranberry Pizza is a must-try. It’s the kind of recipe that surprises and delights with each bite—so gather your toppings, roll out your dough, and make this creative pie the star of your next meal!

Turkey and Cranberry Pizza Recipe

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4.7 from 19 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Turkey and Cranberry Pizza is a delicious and creative way to transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a festive and flavorful meal. Combining tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and a blend of mozzarella and white cheddar cheeses on a crispy pizza crust, it’s perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner with seasonal flair.

Ingredients

Scale

Pizza Base

1 ball (about 12 oz) pizza dough
1 tablespoon olive oil

Toppings

1 cup cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
½ cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ¼ teaspoon dried thyme)
Optional: 2 tablespoons crumbled goat cheese or feta
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up. This ensures the base will cook evenly and become crispy.
Prepare the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch round. Transfer the dough onto a piece of parchment paper to make handling easier and prevent sticking.
Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the surface of the dough with olive oil to add flavor and help achieve a golden crust.
Add Cranberry Sauce: Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges to form the crust.
Assemble Toppings: Evenly distribute the shredded turkey, thinly sliced red onions, mozzarella, and white cheddar cheeses over the cranberry base. Sprinkle with thyme leaves. If desired, add crumbled goat cheese or feta for an extra tangy layer.
Bake the Pizza: Carefully transfer the pizza (on the parchment paper) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Finish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle fresh parsley on top to add a bright, fresh note. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

This recipe is an excellent way to use leftover Thanksgiving turkey and cranberry sauce.
For a quicker alternative, substitute pizza dough with naan or flatbread.
Adding a handful of fresh arugula after baking provides a peppery, fresh contrast to the rich toppings.
To make it vegetarian, substitute turkey with mushrooms or a plant-based protein alternative and omit cheese or use vegan cheese.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American