Thanksgiving Pizza

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to enjoy your Thanksgiving leftovers, then this Thanksgiving Pizza is just the ticket! It’s a delightful twist on traditional flavors, combining turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and more all nestled in a flaky puff pastry crust. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where you want to bring everyone together around the table with something hearty and comforting.

What I love most about this Thanksgiving Pizza is its versatility. You can whip it up quickly after the holiday or even make it fresh for a cozy dinner with friends. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your list of favorite go-to recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: With just a few ingredients and easy steps, this pizza comes together in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pizza! This unique version will be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Great for Leftovers: It’s the ultimate solution for using up those holiday meal remnants.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: The combination of flavors and textures will warm your heart and fill your belly.
• Customizable: Feel free to get creative with what you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are. Most of them are likely already in your fridge or pantry after the holidays!

For the Pizza

• 1 puff pastry sheet (thawed according to the instructions on the package)
• ½ cup mashed potatoes
• 5 tbsp gravy (divided)
• ¼ cup corn
• ¼ cup green bean casserole
• ½ cup chopped turkey
• ½ cup stuffing
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup French fried onions
• ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• Basil, parsley, or thyme, for garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: If you have chicken or even roasted vegetables, feel free to replace the turkey.
• Change up the veggies: Use whatever leftover vegetables you have—roasted Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes would be fantastic!
• Add different cheeses: Try mozzarella or pepper jack for a little kick instead of cheddar.
• Make it vegetarian: Leave out the turkey and add more veggies or even some beans for protein.

How to Make Thanksgiving Pizza

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400˚F. This step is crucial as it ensures that your crust will bake perfectly golden and flaky.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Gently press your thawed puff pastry sheet into a greased 9-inch tart pan (or use a pie pan if that’s what you have). Trim any excess corners and use those pieces to fill in any gaps along the sides. This helps create a lovely, sturdy crust that holds all those delicious fillings.

Step 3: Layer with Mashed Potatoes

Spread the mashed potatoes over the bottom of your pastry. Drizzle two tablespoons of gravy on top—this adds extra flavor right from the start!

Step 4: Add Veggies

Sprinkle corn and green bean casserole over the mashed potatoes. These layers not only add color but also texture that makes each bite interesting.

Step 5: Add Turkey and Stuffing

Next, layer on your chopped turkey followed by stuffing. Don’t forget to drizzle three tablespoons of gravy over this layer too! It’s all about keeping things moist and flavorful.

Step 6: Cheese It Up

Finish off by sprinkling shredded cheddar cheese over everything. This melty layer is going to be so satisfying when it bakes!

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Place your creation in the oven and bake at 400˚F for about 18-20 minutes until it’s golden brown. Keep an eye on it; we want that perfect crust!

Step 8: Add French Fried Onions

After baking, sprinkle French fried onions on top for an extra crunch. Pop it back in the oven for another 3-5 minutes until they are crispy.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Finally, garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or thyme along with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. This adds a pop of freshness that ties everything together beautifully!

And there you have it—your Thanksgiving Pizza is ready to enjoy! Each slice is packed full of flavor and nostalgia; it’s bound to become a new tradition in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Thanksgiving Pizza

Creating the perfect Thanksgiving Pizza is all about using the right techniques and ingredients. Here are some handy tips to elevate your dish!

• Use fresh ingredients: Freshly cooked turkey and homemade mashed potatoes will enhance the flavor and texture of your pizza, making it taste even more delightful.
• Don’t overfill: While it’s tempting to pile on all your leftovers, overfilling can lead to a soggy crust. Stick to the recommended amounts to ensure that every bite is perfectly balanced.
• Pre-bake the crust slightly: If you want an extra crispy base, consider baking the puff pastry for about 5 minutes before adding toppings. This gives it a head start and helps avoid any sogginess from the fillings.
• Experiment with cheese: While cheddar is delicious, mixing in mozzarella or gouda can add a unique twist to your pizza. Different cheeses melt differently, offering various textures and flavors.
• Let it rest before slicing: After baking, allow your Thanksgiving Pizza to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes for cleaner cuts.

How to Serve Thanksgiving Pizza

Serving Thanksgiving Pizza can be as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper enhances flavor without overwhelming the dish.

Side Dishes

• Cranberry sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce provides a delightful contrast to the savory pizza, adding a pop of sweetness that brightens each bite.
• Roasted seasonal vegetables: Consider serving roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots alongside your pizza. The caramelization enhances their natural sweetness, balancing out your meal.
• Mixed green salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing counterpart to the hearty pizza. Choose seasonal greens for added flavor and nutrition.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving Pizza will not only satisfy cravings but also impress everyone at the table! Enjoy creating this cozy dish that brings together all those comforting holiday flavors in one delicious slice.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Pizza is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy those delicious leftovers without any fuss. You can make it ahead of time and store it, ensuring you always have a hearty meal on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover pizza in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat individual slices in the oven or microwave before serving.

Freezing

• Allow the pizza to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for the best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350˚F until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes).
• You can also use a microwave; heat on high for about 1-2 minutes per slice, but be aware that this may affect the crust’s texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish!

Can I use different ingredients for my Thanksgiving Pizza?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your pizza with your favorite Thanksgiving leftovers like cranberry sauce or roasted vegetables.

How do I serve Thanksgiving Pizza?

Serve your Thanksgiving Pizza warm, garnished with fresh herbs. It makes a fantastic centerpiece for any holiday gathering!

What makes Thanksgiving Pizza special?

Thanksgiving Pizza is special because it combines classic holiday flavors into a convenient and delicious dish, perfect for using up leftovers creatively!

Can I make Thanksgiving Pizza ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare your Thanksgiving Pizza ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer, making it an ideal meal prep option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this easy and delicious Thanksgiving Pizza! It’s such a fun way to bring together all those beloved holiday flavors into one delightful dish. Whether you’re enjoying it as a family dinner or sharing it at gatherings, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!