Thanksgiving Pizza

This Thanksgiving Pizza is the perfect dish to transform your holiday leftovers into something extraordinary. With a crispy puff pastry crust stuffed with turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing, it’s a delightful blend of flavors that will satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or a casual gathering, this unique twist on pizza will impress everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple, requiring only 10 minutes of prep time before it goes into the oven.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of turkey, stuffing, and gravy creates a savory experience that captures the essence of Thanksgiving.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for using up leftovers or as a festive main course during the holidays.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this creative spin on traditional Thanksgiving foods.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden crust and colorful toppings make for an eye-catching dish that’s sure to be a hit.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Thanksgiving Pizza, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Tart pan (or pie pan)
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Tart pan: Provides structure to your pizza and helps achieve a beautiful crust.
• Rolling pin: Ensures even thickness when working with puff pastry.
• Baking sheet: Catches any drips from the filling during baking, keeping your oven clean.

Ingredients

This Thanksgiving Pizza recipe is the BEST way to eat Thanksgiving leftovers. It has turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing and more all in a puff pastry crust!

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
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

For Topping

• ¼ cup French fried onions
• ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

For Garnish

• Basil (parsley, or thyme, for garnish)

How to Make Thanksgiving Pizza

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400˚F. This ensures that your pizza cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

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

Step 3: Layer with Mashed Potatoes

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

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Sprinkle corn and green bean casserole evenly over the mashed potatoes. These veggies add color and texture to your dish.

Step 5: Add Turkey and Stuffing

Top with chopped turkey and stuffing. Pour three tablespoons of gravy over these ingredients to keep everything moist.

Step 6: Cheese It Up

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over everything for that delicious melty goodness.

Step 7: Bake First Time

Place in the preheated oven and bake at 400˚F for about 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 8: Add Crunchy Topping

Sprinkle French fried onions on top and return to bake for an additional 3-5 minutes until they are crispy.

Step 9: Garnish Before Serving

Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or thyme along with freshly ground black pepper for extra flavor.

Enjoy every slice of this amazing Thanksgiving Pizza!

How to Serve Thanksgiving Pizza

Thanksgiving Pizza is a delightful way to enjoy your holiday leftovers, and serving it can be just as fun as making it. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Individual Slices

• Serve each slice on a colorful plate to make it visually appealing.
• Pair with a small side salad for a fresh crunch.

Family Style

• Place the Thanksgiving Pizza in the center of the table for everyone to share.
• Encourage guests to add their favorite toppings or sauces at the table.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, cranberry sauce, or additional gravy.
• This adds an interactive element and caters to different taste preferences.

Garnished Plates

• Garnish each slice with fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
• This not only looks beautiful but also adds a burst of flavor.

How to Perfect Thanksgiving Pizza

Perfecting your Thanksgiving Pizza ensures that every bite is delicious. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for freshly cooked turkey and homemade stuffing if possible. These ingredients will enhance the overall flavor.
• Don’t Overfill: Be mindful not to overload the pizza with toppings. Too many ingredients can make it soggy.
• Preheat Your Oven: Always ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps achieve a crispy crust.
• Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is great, try blending different cheeses like mozzarella for added creaminess.
• Add Spice: Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little kick in flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps maintain its shape and makes it easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Thanksgiving Pizza

Pairing side dishes with your Thanksgiving Pizza can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Cranberry Sauce: A classic accompaniment that adds sweetness and tartness, perfect for balancing flavors.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy and caramelized, these veggies provide a nice contrast in texture and taste.
3. Garlic Bread: A crunchy side that complements the soft pizza crust beautifully while adding extra flavor.
4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing offers freshness alongside the hearty pizza.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of the fries pairs wonderfully with savory toppings on the pizza.
6. Buttered Corn: Simple yet satisfying, this side brings a touch of sweetness and color to your plate.
7. Green Bean Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with almonds add elegance and crunch.
8. Stuffing Balls: For an extra dose of that familiar Thanksgiving taste, serve these alongside your pizza!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Thanksgiving Pizza can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Ignoring puff pastry instructions: Always thaw your puff pastry according to the package directions. Not following this step can lead to a soggy or uneven crust.
• Overloading toppings: While it’s tempting to add extra ingredients, too many toppings can make the pizza soggy. Stick to the recommended amounts for the best texture and flavor.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your layers. A pinch of salt and pepper can elevate the flavors significantly, so don’t skip this important step.
• Not preheating the oven: Preheating is essential for achieving a crisp crust. Make sure your oven reaches 400˚F before placing your Thanksgiving Pizza inside.
• Forgetting the garnish: Garnishing your pizza adds freshness and visual appeal. Use herbs like basil or parsley for that finishing touch; it makes a big difference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Thanksgiving Pizza

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Thanksgiving Pizza

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350˚F and bake for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through. This method keeps the crust crispy.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warm, but be cautious as this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, covering with a lid for even warming. This method helps maintain a good crust texture while heating through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Thanksgiving Pizza is not only delicious but also raises some questions. Here are answers to common inquiries:

Can I customize my Thanksgiving Pizza?

Yes! You can easily swap ingredients based on your leftovers. For example, try adding cranberry sauce or different types of cheese for unique flavors.

How do I make Thanksgiving Pizza vegetarian?

Simply replace turkey with extra vegetables like roasted squash or mushrooms. You can also increase the amount of stuffing and cheese for added substance.

What type of cheese works best for Thanksgiving Pizza?

Cheddar is great, but you might also enjoy mozzarella or gouda. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses that complement your favorite leftovers!

Can I make Thanksgiving Pizza ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare all ingredients and assemble your pizza, then store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What should I serve with Thanksgiving Pizza?

Consider pairing it with a simple salad or some roasted vegetables. This balance will create a wholesome meal that’s satisfying and delicious!

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Pizza is an innovative way to enjoy holiday leftovers while impressing family and friends. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on what you have on hand, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and feel free to explore different combinations of toppings that suit your taste!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Thanksgiving Pizza

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Thanksgiving Pizza is a delicious and creative way to repurpose your holiday leftovers into a delightful dish that everyone will love. Featuring a flaky puff pastry crust filled with savory turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, and flavorful stuffing, this unique pizza is perfect for any gathering, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations. The golden crust, combined with melty cheese and crunchy toppings, creates an impressive presentation that will have your guests coming back for seconds. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can transform your leftovers into an extraordinary meal that captures the essence of Thanksgiving in every bite.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 puff pastry sheet (thawed)
• 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
• Fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or thyme) for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400˚F.
2. Press the thawed puff pastry into a greased tart or pie pan and trim edges as needed.
3. Spread mashed potatoes on the bottom and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of gravy.
4. Layer corn and green bean casserole evenly over the potatoes.
5. Add chopped turkey and stuffing; pour remaining gravy on top.
6. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for about 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
8. Top with French fried onions and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes until crispy.
9. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 490mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 35mg