Growing up, my mom’s Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls were a holiday staple in our house. I can still remember the comforting aroma of warm, buttery pastry and the irresistible sweet-savory blend of turkey sausage and tart cranberries. It was a dish that always brought the family together, with everyone gathered around the table, eagerly anticipating that first bite.
One year, I was tasked with helping my mom prepare the Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls for our annual Christmas party. I can still see myself carefully unrolling the puff pastry, delicately arranging the seasoned turkey sausage and vibrant cranberries, and then watching in awe as the rolls baked to golden perfection. The moment we pulled them from the oven, I couldn’t wait to sink my teeth into that flaky crust and savor the burst of flavors. It’s a memory that always makes me smile, and it’s why this recipe has become such a cherished tradition in our family.
Why This Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
If you’re looking for a dish that combines the comforting flavors of the holidays with the convenience of a grab-and-go snack, then this Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls recipe is about to become your new go-to. Not only are these rolls incredibly delicious, but they’re also surprisingly easy to make, and you can prepare them ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.
The Secret Behind Perfect Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls
The secret to these Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls is in the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The savory, juicy turkey sausage is perfectly complemented by the tart, chewy cranberries, and the buttery, flaky puff pastry wraps it all together in a delightful package. But the real magic happens when you bake them until the pastry is golden brown and the sausage is cooked through, creating a dish that’s both visually stunning and utterly irresistible.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Turkey sausage: Choose a high-quality turkey sausage that’s packed with flavor.
- Dried cranberries: Look for plump, juicy cranberries to balance the savory sausage.
- Puff pastry: This flaky, buttery dough is the perfect vessel for your Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls.
- Egg wash: A simple egg wash helps the pastry achieve that beautiful golden-brown color.
- Herbs and spices: A blend of herbs and seasonings, like thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper, brings out the best in the other ingredients.
Step-by-Step Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls Instructions
Preparing Your Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls
This Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls recipe is a breeze to make, and it’s perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to weeknight snacks. The entire process, from start to finish, takes just about an hour, and it’s a great way to impress your guests with a homemade, gourmet-inspired treat.
1- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2- In a bowl, combine the turkey sausage, dried cranberries, and a pinch of your favorite herbs and spices. Mix everything together until well incorporated.
3- Unroll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it in half lengthwise. Place the sausage mixture down the center of each pastry strip, leaving about an inch of space on the edges.
4- Fold the pastry over the sausage mixture, then use a fork to crimp and seal the edges. Cut each roll into 6-8 pieces, depending on your desired size.
5- Arrange the Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with a beaten egg.
6- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the sausage is cooked through. Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls turn out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips:
- Use high-quality, flavorful turkey sausage for the best results.
- Don’t overstuff the pastry, or it may be difficult to roll and seal.
- Be gentle when handling the puff pastry to prevent it from tearing.
- Brush the tops with egg wash for a beautiful golden-brown finish.
- Keep an eye on the rolls during baking to prevent the pastry from burning.
Serving and Storing Your Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls
Perfect Pairings for Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls
These Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls are the perfect appetizer or snack for any holiday gathering, but they also make a great addition to a cozy weekend brunch. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad, a tangy cranberry chutney, or a warm cup of apple cider for a delightful flavor combination.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), you can store the Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
For make-ahead convenience, you can assemble the rolls and freeze them unbaked. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them straight 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, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on these Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls. Try swapping the turkey sausage for a spicy Italian variety, or mix in some diced apples or pecans for a touch of sweetness and crunch. You could also experiment with different types of pastry, such as crescent roll dough or a homemade pie crust.
Making Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls Diet-Friendly
For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free, low-carb, or even vegan. Simply swap the puff pastry for a gluten-free or low-carb alternative, or use a plant-based sausage substitute and vegan puff pastry for a delicious meatless option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
A: Absolutely! Fresh cranberries will work just as well in this recipe. You may want to toss them with a bit of sugar or maple syrup to balance the tartness.
Q: How long do the Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls need to bake?
A: The rolls should bake for 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C), or until the pastry is golden brown and the sausage is cooked through.
Q: Can I make the Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the rolls and freeze them unbaked. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q: How many Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls does this recipe make?
A: Depending on how you cut the rolls, this recipe will yield between 12-16 individual sausage rolls.
Q: What should I do if the pastry isn’t browning evenly?
A: If you notice the pastry isn’t browning as much as you’d like, try brushing the tops with a bit more egg wash. You can also increase the oven temperature by 25°F (10°C) for the last 5 minutes of baking to encourage even browning.
Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 12 sausage rolls
Description
Savor the perfect balance of savory turkey and tart cranberry in these irresistible sausage rolls, a must-try holiday appetizer.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. – Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. – In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, dried cranberries, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. – Unroll the puff pastry sheet and cut it in half lengthwise, creating two long strips.
4. – Divide the turkey-cranberry mixture evenly down the center of each pastry strip.
5. – Fold the pastry over the filling and crimp the edges to seal. Cut each roll into 6 equal pieces.
6. – Place the sausage rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. – Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is cooked through.
8. – Serve the Turkey and Cranberry Sausage Rolls warm, with a side of cranberry sauce for dipping.
Notes
For a festive touch, brush the tops of the sausage rolls with a beaten egg before baking for a shiny, golden finish. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or air fryer before serving.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Snacks & Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
These Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls are the perfect way to bring the flavors of the holidays into your home, no matter the time of year. With their irresistible combination of savory sausage, tart cranberries, and flaky, buttery pastry, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a family favorite. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and get ready to wow your friends and loved ones with these delectable Turkey & Cranberry Sausage Rolls. Happy baking!