These Turkey & Stuffing Turnovers are a comforting treat! Flaky pastry filled with tender turkey and savory stuffing make for a cozy bite, perfect for any day.
Who needs a fancy dinner when you can have these handheld delights? I love enjoying them with a side of cranberry sauce for a little extra zing! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Turkey: Shredded or diced turkey makes the filling delicious and hearty. You can easily substitute with chicken if turkey isn’t available. If you’re looking to go vegetarian, try using a mix of mushrooms and beans instead!
Prepared Stuffing: Using a store-bought brand is quick and easy! However, homemade stuffing brings more flavor. Feel free to use cornbread, herb, or even wild rice stuffing for variety.
Onions: Finely chopped onions add sweetness and depth to the filling. If you’re short on time, you can use onion powder instead, but fresh onions really enhance the flavor.
Dried Cranberries: While optional, they add a nice sweetness to balance the savory flavors. You can swap them for raisins or chopped apples if you prefer a different sweet note.
Puff Pastry: Thawed puff pastry gives a flaky texture. You might try phyllo pastry for a different crunch, but be aware that you’ll need to layer it for the same effect.
How Do I Ensure My Turnovers Are Perfectly Sealed?
Sealing your turnovers well is key to keeping the filling inside while baking. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to press the edges of the pastry together firmly. A fork works well to crimp them tightly.
- For extra security, you can brush a little egg wash along the edges before folding the pastry over the filling.
- If you’re worried about leaks, keep an eye on them while baking; any cracks can be easily patched with a bit of extra pastry or dough.
Turkey & Stuffing Turnovers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 1 1/2 cups prepared stuffing (use your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup cooked onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional for added sweetness)
- 1/2 cup gravy (thickened, not too runny)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Pastry:
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cranberries, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and another 20-25 minutes for baking, totaling about 40-45 minutes. A quick and satisfying meal with delightful flavors awaits you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will help in easy cleanup later!
2. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded turkey, prepared stuffing, chopped onions, and cranberries if you’re using them. Add the gravy and chopped parsley, seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste. Gently mix everything together until well combined. It’s going to smell great already!
3. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out each sheet of puff pastry. Cut each sheet into 4 equal squares, giving you a total of 8 squares. This is where the magic happens!
4. Fill the Pastry:
Take 2-3 tablespoons of the turkey and stuffing mixture and place it in the center of each pastry square. Don’t overfill, or they might burst during baking!
5. Seal the Turnovers:
Now, gently fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle or rectangle. Use a fork to press the edges together tightly. This step is essential to keep all the deliciousness inside!
6. Brush and Bake:
Transfer your turnovers to the prepared baking sheet. Give them a nice golden color by brushing the tops with the beaten egg. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are nicely puffed and golden brown.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, take the turnovers out of the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet. You can garnish them with fresh parsley and a few cranberries if you like. Serve them warm, and consider having extra gravy or cranberry sauce on hand for dipping!
Enjoy these flaky turnovers filled with savory turkey and stuffing — perfect as a tasty snack or hearty meal!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works perfectly in these turnovers, making them a great way to use up any leftover meat from holiday meals. Just make sure it’s chopped or shredded into manageable pieces!
What Can I Use Instead of Puff Pastry?
If you don’t have puff pastry on hand, you can substitute with refrigerated pie crusts or even phyllo dough. Just keep in mind that phyllo will require layering for a flaky texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover turnovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to get the pastry crispy again.
Can I Make These Turnovers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the turnovers and freeze them uncooked. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze them first, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from the freezer — just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
