Name: Thanksgiving Pizza: A Cozy, Leftover Delight to Savor
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 sheet Puff Pastry (Thaw according to package instructions); 2 cups Mashed Potatoes (Substitute with sweet potatoes for a twist); 1/2 cup Gravy (Use turkey or chicken gravy for a festive touch); 1 cup Corn (Can be swapped with peas or leftover veggies); 1 cup Green Bean Casserole (Use any vegetable sides from your holiday meal); 2 cups Chopped Turkey (Rotisserie chicken is a great alternative); 2 cups Stuffing (Any type of stuffing works well); 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Mozzarella can be used as a substitute); 1/2 cup French Fried Onions (Optional, but recommended for extra crunch); 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper

As I stood in my kitchen, the delightful aroma of leftover turkey and stuffing filled the air, igniting cravings for a comforting meal. This inspired me to create something extraordinary: Thanksgiving Pizza. With its flaky puff pastry crust cradling layers of savory turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, and your favorite holiday sides, this dish is an effortless way to transform leftovers into a masterpiece. Not only is it quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights, but it also serves as a crowd-pleasing comfort food that brings the essence of Thanksgiving back to the table. Ready to impress your family while minimizing waste? Let’s dive into this delicious creation!

Why is Thanksgiving Pizza a Must-Try?

Elevated Comfort Food: This Thanksgiving Pizza reimagines flavors from our beloved holiday feast into a fun, easy-to-eat format.

Quick Prep Time: In just under 30 minutes, you can have a meal that feels gourmet without the hassle—ideal for busy evenings!

Versatility at Its Best: Swap ingredients based on what you have; whether it’s roasted vegetables or leftover ham, you can customize it to your liking.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners, it’s a surefire way to satiate hungry bellies and evoke nostalgia.

Waste-Not Want-Not: This dish ensures that your Thanksgiving leftovers find a second life, transforming potential waste into a delightful meal.

Ready for more delicious ideas? Try my recipes for Pull Apart Pizza or Pepperoni Pizza Quesadillas for those moments when you’re craving comforting favorites!

Thanksgiving Pizza Ingredients

For the Crust
• Puff Pastry Sheet – It creates a flaky, buttery crust that’s the perfect foundation for your Thanksgiving Pizza. Thaw according to package instructions.

For the Filling
• Mashed Potatoes – This creamy layer adds moisture and texture; you can substitute with sweet potatoes for an unexpected twist.
• Gravy – A delicious flavor enhancer to bind everything together; use turkey or chicken gravy to keep it festive!
• Corn – A pop of sweetness and texture; feel free to swap with peas or any leftover veggies you might have.
• Green Bean Casserole – This adds texture and flavor; use any vegetable sides from your holiday meal if you prefer!
• Chopped Turkey – The heart of this dish; it captures all the festive flavors of Thanksgiving. Rotisserie chicken is a great alternative if turkey isn’t available.
• Stuffing – This brings in a herby flavor that’s quintessential to the holiday; any type of stuffing works wonders here.

For the Topping
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – A gooey, satisfying topping; feel free to substitute with mozzarella for a different taste.
• French Fried Onions – Adds that extra crunch and flavor; sprinkle on top before the final bake for some delightful crunch. This is optional but highly recommended!
• Ground Black Pepper – A dash adds depth to the overall flavor profile of your Thanksgiving Pizza.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Pizza

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This initial step is crucial for achieving that golden, flaky finish on your Thanksgiving Pizza. Ensure your oven is fully heated before placing the pizza inside for an even bake, allowing the pastry to rise beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Take your thawed puff pastry sheet and gently press it into a greased 9-inch tart or pie pan, making sure the edges fit snugly. Trim any excess pastry to prevent it from burning during baking. The creamy layers of your Thanksgiving Pizza will rest on this perfectly shaped crust.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Spread a generous layer of creamy mashed potatoes across the bottom of the puff pastry. Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of gravy over the potatoes for extra moisture and flavor. This forms a solid, tasty foundation for the other ingredients, making your Thanksgiving Pizza even more delightful.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Turkey
Next, evenly distribute the corn and green bean casserole on top of the mashed potatoes, creating a colorful layer of leftovers. Follow this by placing the chopped turkey pieces on top, allowing the essence of Thanksgiving to shine through. Drizzle the remaining gravy across this layer to enhance the overall flavor.

Step 5: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the layered ingredients. This cheesy topping will melt beautifully, adding richness to your Thanksgiving Pizza. Visualize it covering the entire area, hinting at the delightful gooeyness that awaits you after baking.

Step 6: Bake the Pizza
Place your assembled Thanksgiving Pizza into the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. Watch for the crust to puff up and turn golden brown, while the cheese melts and begins to bubble. This step transforms your layers into a cohesive, comforting dish that captures the spirit of Thanksgiving.

Step 7: Add Crunch
Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle the French fried onions over the top for an added crunch. Return it to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the onions to crisp lightly and enhance the flavor profile of your Thanksgiving Pizza.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finally, take your Thanksgiving Pizza out of the oven and sprinkle it with freshly chopped herbs like basil or parsley, along with a dash of ground black pepper. These finishing touches elevate the dish’s presentation and flavor, making it ready to serve and impress your family and friends.

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Pizza make ahead options are a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can prepare the filling—mashed potatoes, turkey, corn, and stuffing—up to 24 hours in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply layer the prepped ingredients into the puff pastry, drizzle with gravy, and top with cheese before popping it in the oven. This ensures you can enjoy delicious, home-cooked flavors with minimal fuss after the holiday hustle. Keep in mind that once assembled, try to bake your Thanksgiving Pizza within 3 days for the best quality and taste.

How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Pizza

Fridge: Store any leftover Thanksgiving Pizza in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while preventing moisture loss.

Freezer: If you want to save some for later, wrap the cooled pizza tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For best results, reheat the Thanksgiving Pizza in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This helps restore the flaky texture of the crust.

Thawing: If frozen, let the pizza thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. This ensures even warming and maintains the delightful flavors of your delicious creation.

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Pizza

Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into an unforgettable meal with flavorful pairings that complement every bite of this comforting pizza.

Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the hearty pizza, adding a bright crunch.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection adds an earthy contrast, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Homemade Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of tart cranberry sauce on the side brings a delightful sweetness, perfectly cutting through the richness of the pizza.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and warm garlic breadsticks offer a satisfying texture that’s great for dipping in leftover gravy, creating a cozy comfort food vibe.
Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy, warm soup introduces a seasonal flavor element, making for a delightful starter that pairs beautifully with the pizza’s savory layers.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: A cozy autumn drink, this latte brings a sweet and spiced warmth that complements your meal, creating a festive atmosphere.
Warm Apple Crisp: As a sweet ending, apple crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream delivers a warm, comforting dessert that echoes the flavors of fall.
Sparkling Water: Crisp and refreshing, sparkling water with a slice of lemon acts as a palate cleanser, enhancing the meal without overpowering the flavors.

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Pizza

Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure you leave enough space for the puff pastry to puff up beautifully during baking, allowing for that perfect flaky texture.
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your pizza; it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and the crust is a golden brown, indicating a delicious finish.
Customize Freely: Feel free to incorporate any of your leftover holiday sides, as this Thanksgiving Pizza is incredibly versatile and can suit your pantry or fridge’s offerings.
Use Fresh Herbs: Garnishing your pizza with fresh herbs not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color to your Thanksgiving Pizza, making it even more appetizing!
Reheat Carefully: If you have leftovers, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave to maintain the crispy texture of the crust.

Thanksgiving Pizza Variations & Substitutions

Get ready to make this Thanksgiving Pizza truly your own by adding your personal touch to it, creating an even more delightful experience!

Meat Swap: Replace chopped turkey with leftover ham or rotisserie chicken for a different protein twist. The sweet and savory flavor ratios will dance on your palate!
Veggie Variety: Use roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or squash instead of corn and green bean casserole for a hearty spin. This change adds extra color and nutrition!
Crescent Roll Base: For a simpler crust option, swap the puff pastry with crescent roll dough, making the prep even easier while keeping that flaky goodness.
Herby Stuffing: Instead of traditional stuffing, try a wild rice or cornbread stuffing to bring in new and exciting flavors. Each bite will tell a new story!
Cheese Choices: Switch out the cheddar cheese for Swiss or provolone for a more sophisticated taste, complementing the rich flavors of turkey beautifully.
Heat It Up: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick that elevates your Thanksgiving Pizza to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Creamy Toppings: Drizzle ranch dressing or a dollop of sour cream over the top before serving for an extra layer of flavor and creamy texture.
Extra Crunch: Instead of French fried onions, consider using crushed tortilla chips for a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the savory layers.

Ready to explore more comforting creations? Don’t forget to check out my Pull Apart Pizza or indulge in some delicious Pepperoni Pizza Quesadillas for more delightful, family-loved recipes!

Thanksgiving Pizza Recipe FAQs

What type of puff pastry should I use for my Thanksgiving Pizza?
Absolutely! You want to use a high-quality puff pastry sheet that is thawed according to the package instructions. This will give you a light, flaky crust that serves as a delightful base for all your delicious Thanksgiving leftovers.

How do I store leftover Thanksgiving Pizza?
Once your Thanksgiving Pizza has cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep it secure to maintain flavor and prevent moisture loss, ensuring those comforting tastes don’t disappear too soon!

Can I freeze Thanksgiving Pizza?
Yes, you certainly can! To freeze, wrap the cooled pizza tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight for optimal flavor and texture.

What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
Very much so! You can customize the Thanksgiving Pizza to accommodate dietary needs. For instance, use gluten-free puff pastry for those with gluten sensitivities. If anyone has dairy allergies, consider dairy-free cheese alternatives. Be sure to read ingredient labels carefully!

Why isn’t my crust puffing up as expected?
The most common reason could be overcrowding! Ensure that your ingredients are layered without packing them down too much, allowing the puff pastry room to rise beautifully. Additionally, check that your oven is preheated to the right temperature—we want that perfect golden texture!

How do I reheat Thanksgiving Pizza to keep it crispy?
For a wonderfully crispy texture, reheat your Thanksgiving Pizza in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This will restore the flakiness of your puff pastry. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the crust soggy. Enjoy every bite!