Thanksgiving Pizza

This Thanksgiving Pizza recipe is the BEST way to eat Thanksgiving leftovers. It combines turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and more, all nestled in a flaky puff pastry crust. Perfect for cozy family dinners or holiday gatherings, this dish offers a delightful twist on traditional favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: This Thanksgiving Pizza captures all the beloved flavors of the holiday in every bite.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can transform leftovers into a gourmet meal.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as dinner, lunch, or even a fun appetizer at your next gathering.
• Kid-Friendly: The blend of familiar ingredients makes it appealing for both kids and adults alike.
• Quick Prep Time: In only 35 minutes, you can have a hearty meal ready to enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Thanksgiving Pizza successfully, having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick tart pan or pie pan
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick tart pan or pie pan: Ensures easy removal of your pizza once baked without damaging its shape.
• Rolling pin: Helps to flatten the puff pastry evenly for better cooking results.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients smoothly before adding them to the crust.
• Spoon or spatula: Essential for spreading sauces and toppings evenly across the base.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 puff pastry sheet (thawed according to the instructions on the package)

For the Filling

• ½ cup mashed potatoes
• 5 tbsp gravy (divided)
• ¼ cup corn
• ¼ cup green bean casserole
• ½ cup chopped turkey
• ½ cup stuffing

For Toppings

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup French fried onions
• ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• Basil (parsley, or thyme, for garnish)

How to Make Thanksgiving Pizza

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400˚F. A hot oven is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Gently press the puff pastry sheet into a greased 9-inch tart pan (or use a 9-inch pie pan). Trim any excess corners and use them to fill in empty spaces along the sides of the pan.

Step 3: Add Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the bottom of the pastry crust. Drizzle with two tablespoons of gravy for added flavor.

Step 4: Layer Vegetables

Sprinkle corn and green bean casserole over the mashed potatoes. This adds texture and enhances the flavor profile.

Step 5: Incorporate Turkey and Stuffing

Top with chopped turkey and stuffing. Pour three tablespoons of gravy over this layer to keep everything moist and delicious.

Step 6: Cheese It Up!

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over everything. This will melt beautifully during baking.

Step 7: Bake Your Creation

Place in your preheated oven and bake at 400˚F for about 18-20 minutes, until it’s golden brown.

Step 8: Finish with Onions

After the initial bake, sprinkle French fried onions on top. Return it to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes until they are crispy.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or thyme along with a touch of freshly ground black pepper before slicing into eight delicious pieces. Enjoy your Thanksgiving Pizza!

How to Serve Thanksgiving Pizza

Thanksgiving Pizza is not only a delicious way to use leftovers, but it also makes for a festive centerpiece. Serve it hot and fresh from the oven, and consider pairing it with sides or drinks that complement its flavors.

With a Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad adds a refreshing touch, balancing the richness of the pizza.

Pair with Cranberry Sauce

• Drizzle some tangy cranberry sauce on top for an added burst of flavor that enhances your Thanksgiving Pizza.

Side of Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables provide a hearty accompaniment, bringing extra nutrients and color to your meal.

Accompany with Garlic Bread

• A side of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any gravy or cheese that might linger on your plate.

Offer a Variety of Dips

• Include dips like ranch or herbed yogurt to add different flavor profiles and enhance your pizza experience.

How to Perfect Thanksgiving Pizza

Creating the perfect Thanksgiving Pizza requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Select fresh turkey and homemade stuffing for a more flavorful pizza.
• Don’t Overload: Keep toppings balanced; too many can make the pizza soggy.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Add freshly chopped herbs like basil or thyme just before serving for vibrant flavor.
• Bake Until Golden: Ensure the puff pastry is golden brown for optimal texture.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Thanksgiving Pizza

To round out your meal, consider these delightful side dishes that pair beautifully with Thanksgiving Pizza:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside your pizza.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with balsamic glaze add crunch and depth.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the savory pizza flavors.
5. Vegetable Medley: Sautéed seasonal vegetables bring color and nutrition to your plate.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese make for an elegant appetizer.
7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the pizza.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich Thanksgiving Pizza.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Thanksgiving Pizza can be a delightful way to enjoy leftovers, but some common mistakes can hinder your experience. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the Thawing Process: Not allowing the puff pastry to thaw properly can lead to a tough crust. Always follow the package instructions for the best results.

• Overfilling the Crust: Adding too many toppings can make the pizza soggy. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced texture and flavor.

• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to add seasoning like black pepper can leave your pizza bland. A pinch of salt and pepper enhances all the flavors in your dish.

• Underbaking: Not baking long enough can result in a soggy base and cold filling. Keep an eye on your pizza as it bakes and ensure it’s golden brown.

• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Relying solely on pre-packaged items can affect the taste. Incorporate fresh herbs or homemade gravy for a more flavorful pizza.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Thanksgiving Pizza in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Thanksgiving Pizza

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or bag; they can last up to 2 months.

Reheating Thanksgiving Pizza

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover it, and warm for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Thanksgiving Pizza that might help you further:

What is Thanksgiving Pizza?

Thanksgiving Pizza is a creative dish that combines traditional Thanksgiving leftovers like turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes into a delicious puff pastry crust.

How do I customize my Thanksgiving Pizza?

You can easily customize your Thanksgiving Pizza by adding other leftovers such as cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, or even different cheeses based on your preferences.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute turkey with roasted vegetables or plant-based proteins while keeping all other ingredients similar for a vegetarian version of Thanksgiving Pizza.

How long does it take to make Thanksgiving Pizza?

The total time from prep to finish is about 35 minutes, making it a quick way to use up leftovers after the holiday feast.

Can I use store-bought gravy?

Absolutely! Using store-bought gravy can save time without sacrificing flavor. Just make sure it’s heated before drizzling over your pizza layers.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Pizza is not only an excellent way to repurpose leftovers but also offers versatility in flavors and ingredients. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or herbs! Give this recipe a try; it’s bound to become a new holiday tradition.