When the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, I can’t help but crave the comforting flavors of Thanksgiving. And one of my absolute favorite seasonal treats has got to be Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls. There’s just something about the savory turkey, tart cranberries, and flaky pastry that makes my heart (and stomach) happy.
I remember the first time I tried this recipe – it was a chilly November afternoon, and I was hosting a cozy get-together for some close friends. As they arrived, the aroma of the Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls baking in the oven filled the air, and everyone’s faces lit up with delight. We gathered around the table, eagerly anticipating that first bite. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The combination of flavors was absolutely heavenly, and I knew from that moment on that this would become a holiday staple in my household.
Table of Contents
Why This Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls
What makes this Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls recipe so special is the perfect balance of savory and sweet. The turkey sausage provides a rich, meaty base, while the cranberries add a tangy, fruity twist that complements it beautifully. But the real secret is in the flaky, buttery puff pastry that envelops it all. This recipe yields 24 sausage rolls, so you’ll have plenty to share (or hoard for yourself!).
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these irresistible Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls, you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Step-by-Step Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls Instructions
Preparing Your Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls
This recipe takes 35 minutes total – 15 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll need a baking sheet, a mixing bowl, and a sharp knife. Let’s get started!
1- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, cranberries, onion, garlic, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2- Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet and cut it in half lengthwise. Spoon the turkey mixture evenly down the center of each pastry half, leaving a 1-inch border on the long sides.
3- Carefully roll up the pastry around the filling, sealing the seam and the ends. Cut each log into 12 equal pieces, for a total of 24 sausage rolls.
4- Place the sausage rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet. Look for golden-brown, flaky pastry and bubbling filling when they’re done.
5- Brush the tops of the sausage rolls with a bit of beaten egg or milk for a shiny finish.
6- Bake the Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls at 400°F for 20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is piping hot.
Pro Tips for Success
- For an extra flavor boost, try adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the turkey mixture.
- If the pastry is browning too quickly, loosely cover the baking sheet with foil.
- Don’t overstuff the sausage rolls – the filling should be just shy of the pastry edges.
- Let the baked sausage rolls cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
Serving and Storing Your Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls
Perfect Pairings for Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls
These Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls are a fantastic holiday appetizer or snack, making 24 sausage rolls total with each serving being 2 sausage rolls. Serve them alongside a crisp green salad, roasted root vegetables, or a warm cup of apple cider for a cozy, seasonal spread. They’re also a great addition to a Thanksgiving or Christmas spread, complementing the other classic flavors beautifully.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
The best part? These Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls can be made ahead of time and frozen for later. Simply assemble the rolls, place them on a baking sheet, and pop them in the freezer until firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or resealable bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake the frozen sausage rolls directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls
Creative Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the ground turkey for Italian sausage or breakfast sausage for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, like rosemage, thyme, or even a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat. And for a festive touch, sprinkle the baked sausage rolls with powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey.
Making Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls Diet-Friendly
To make these Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls a bit lighter, you can use lean ground turkey and opt for a lower-fat puff pastry. For a gluten-free version, simply swap the puff pastry for a gluten-free pie crust or biscuit dough. And for a vegan twist, replace the turkey with a plant-based sausage alternative and use a vegan puff pastry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well in this recipe. You may need to add an extra minute or two to the baking time if using frozen.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes exactly 24 sausage rolls, with each serving being 2 sausage rolls.
Q: Can I make these sausage rolls ahead of time?
A: Yes, these Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls are great for meal prepping! You can assemble the rolls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them. When you’re ready to bake, simply transfer the frozen rolls to a baking sheet and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q: Why are my sausage rolls tough or dry?
A: If your Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls turn out tough or dry, it’s likely that you overcooked them. Keep a close eye on the rolls in the oven, and pull them out as soon as the pastry is golden brown and the filling is hot. Let them cool for 5 minutes before serving, and they should be perfectly tender and juicy.
Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 24 sausage rolls
Description
Indulge in the mouthwatering combination of savory turkey, tangy cranberries, and flaky pastry in these irresistible Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls. A quick and easy appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. 2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped cranberries, brown sugar, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. 3. Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into long, rectangular strips, approximately 4 inches wide.
4. 4. Place a spoonful of the turkey-cranberry mixture along the center of each pastry strip. Fold the pastry over the filling and press the edges to seal, creating a long sausage roll.
5. 5. Cut each sausage roll into 2-inch pieces and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. 6. Bake the Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls for 18-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is cooked through.
7. 7. Serve the sausage rolls warm, with a side of cranberry sauce for dipping.
Notes
For a variation, try using ground chicken or pork instead of turkey. You can also experiment with different types of dried herbs or spices to change up the flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Bites & Finger Foods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls are a must-make for the holiday season (or any time, really!). With their irresistible blend of savory and sweet, flaky pastry, and make-ahead convenience, it’s no wonder they’ve become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try, and get ready to wow your guests with these delightful Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls. Don’t forget to let me know how they turn out – I’d love to hear your thoughts!
