If you’re looking for a flavorful twist on a classic snack, this Turkey and Cranberry Sausage Rolls Recipe is absolutely the way to go. Imagine tender, juicy ground turkey mixed with a touch of tart cranberry sauce, wrapped in flaky, buttery puff pastry that crisps up beautifully in the oven. It’s comfort food with a festive flair, perfect for gatherings, lunchboxes, or just treating yourself to something homemade and irresistible. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of savory and sweet, making these sausage rolls a new favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the ingredient list fool you—these are simple, everyday items that come together to create something truly special. Each component plays a crucial role, from the juicy turkey providing protein and texture to the cranberry sauce adding a vibrant pop of color and flavor that makes the dish sing.
- 1 pound (450g) ground turkey: The lean, mild base that lets other flavors shine and keeps the rolls tender.
- 1/4 cup cranberry sauce: Adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the savory meat.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Adds depth and a slightly sweet aroma when sautéed to perfection.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Binds everything together while keeping the texture just right.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings an herby warmth to the filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage: Adds earthiness that pairs beautifully with the turkey.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing): Helps soften the onions and adds a subtle richness.
- 1 package puff pastry sheets (usually 2 sheets per package, thawed): The flaky, golden encasing that makes every bite divine.
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash): Gives the sausage rolls that irresistible golden-brown finish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch just before serving.
How to Make Turkey and Cranberry Sausage Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by heating the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onions and sauté them gently for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and develop a naturally sweet aroma. This step really brings out flavor depth before the turkey mixture comes together.
Step 2: Mix All Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, cranberry sauce, sautéed onions, breadcrumbs, dried thyme, sage, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly so the flavors meld, and the mixture has a consistent texture. This blend is where the magic of the Turkey and Cranberry Sausage Rolls Recipe truly starts.
Step 3: Prepare Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the rolls from sticking. Roll out your puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface to smooth any creases, trimming the edges if needed so you have neat rectangles to work with.
Step 4: Assemble the Sausage Rolls
Divide your turkey filling into two equal parts and shape each into a long sausage shape down the center of the pastry sheets. Leave some space at the edges to wrap the pastry easily. Roll the pastry over the filling, folding the sides in as you go to seal it well. Then, place the formed rolls seam side down on the baking tray; this prevents them from unrolling while baking.
Step 5: Add the Egg Wash and Slice
Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg—this gives them that signature shiny, golden crust we all love. Next, cut each roll into 4 to 5 individual sausage rolls, depending on your preferred size, ready for the oven.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the sausage rolls for 20 to 25 minutes until the puff pastry is beautifully golden and crisped, and the turkey filling is cooked through with an internal temperature reaching 165°F (74°C). After baking, let them cool just slightly for handling and to savor all the wonderful aromas fully.
How to Serve Turkey and Cranberry Sausage Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley over the top adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast to the rich, savory rolls. It’s a small touch that really elevates the presentation and taste experience.
Side Dishes
Serve these sausage rolls alongside a crisp green salad, roasted root vegetables, or even some creamy mashed potatoes for a heartier meal. They also pair wonderfully with extra cranberry sauce or a savory gravy to dip and drizzle.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, arrange the sausage rolls on a wooden board with bowls of various dipping sauces like mustard, chutney, or horseradish cream. This makes an inviting and interactive snack platter that’s perfect for parties or cozy nights in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover sausage rolls in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days and are perfect for a quick reheat when you need a flavorful snack or meal addition.
Freezing
You can freeze these sausage rolls either before or after baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen sausage rolls last up to 2 months and are a fabulous make-ahead option.
Reheating
To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the puff pastry soggy, and we want to keep that delightful crunch!
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground turkey sausage can add extra seasoning to the filling, but you might want to reduce added salt and herbs since sausages often contain those already.
Is it okay to use store-bought cranberry sauce?
Yes! While homemade cranberry sauce adds a personal touch, a good-quality store-bought version works perfectly and saves time without sacrificing flavor.
Can I prepare these sausage rolls in advance for a party?
Definitely! Assemble the rolls up to a day ahead and keep them in the fridge. You can bake them right before your guests arrive for fresh, hot bites.
What can I substitute for puff pastry?
If you don’t have puff pastry, you could try phyllo dough or even biscuit dough for a different texture, though the flaky richness of puff pastry is hard to beat!
Are these sausage rolls suitable for freezing?
They freeze wonderfully and make a convenient meal option anytime. Just thaw and reheat as described to enjoy them at their best.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to make this delicious Turkey and Cranberry Sausage Rolls Recipe, I encourage you to give it a go. It’s straightforward, packed with flavor, and versatile enough for many occasions. Whether for a cozy family dinner, a party appetizer, or a special lunch treat, these sausage rolls deliver smiles every time. Happy baking!
Print
Turkey and Cranberry Sausage Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 10 sausage rolls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Turkey and Cranberry Sausage Rolls combine lean ground turkey with a tangy cranberry sauce and aromatic herbs, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfect as a savory snack or party appetizer, they offer a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors with a crisp, golden crust.
Ingredients
Turkey Mixture
- 1 pound (450g) ground turkey
- 1/4 cup cranberry sauce (preferably homemade or a good-quality store-bought)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Sautéing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Pastry and Finishing
- 1 package puff pastry sheets (usually 2 sheets per package, thawed)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened, enhancing their sweetness and flavor for the turkey mixture.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, cranberry sauce, sautéed onions, breadcrumbs, dried thyme, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all components are evenly incorporated, ensuring consistent flavor throughout.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and simplify clean-up.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Trim edges if necessary to create neat rectangular shapes.
- Form Sausage Shapes: Divide the turkey mixture equally into two portions. Place each portion lengthwise along the center of each puff pastry sheet, shaping it into a long sausage shape while leaving some space at the edges.
- Roll Pastry: Fold the puff pastry over the turkey mixture, folding the sides inwards to seal the roll completely. Position the roll seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet for optimal structure during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the tops of each puff pastry roll with the beaten egg to achieve a rich, golden brown finish once baked.
- Slice Rolls: Cut each roll into 4 to 5 pieces according to your preferred sausage roll size, allowing for easy serving and even cooking.
- Bake: Place the rolls in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden and crispy and the internal temperature of the turkey mixture reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring safe consumption.
- Cool Slightly and Garnish: Remove the sausage rolls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet. Optionally, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a vibrant garnish and fresh flavor.
- Serve: Serve warm with extra cranberry sauce or gravy for dipping to enhance the flavor experience.
Notes
- Ensure the turkey is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee food safety.
- You can prepare cranberry sauce ahead of time or use a high-quality store-bought brand for convenience.
- For crispier pastry, make sure your puff pastry is cold before rolling and baking.
- These sausage rolls can be frozen prior to baking; freeze them on the baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding extra baking time.
- Herbs like thyme and sage complement turkey exceptionally well but can be adjusted based on your preference.
- Serve with a side of mustard or a tangy dipping sauce for additional flavor options.
