Thanksgiving Pizza

Thanksgiving Pizza
by Open AI

Thanksgiving Pizza

As the Thanksgiving feast winds down, the kitchen often transforms into a realm of possibilities with the array of delicious leftovers. This year, venture beyond the traditional reheated plate and embark on a culinary adventure with a twist — introducing the "Thanksgiving Pizza." This innovative take on leftovers combines the essence of Thanksgiving with the comfort of a classic pizza, creating a mouthwatering fusion that will have everyone asking for seconds.\

We've been known at our house to make extra turkey just so we can have enough to make several of these!

Pizza Dough--plan in advance

You'd think that we would advocate making a fresh pizza dough--and that would be better and tastier!  But this is Thanksgiving weekend, so treat yourself and use a store-bought pizza dough.  Save yourself some time and effort and enjoy your break.

Most households during Thanksgiving have a lot of things happening, so remember:  it's okay to take shortcuts from time to time!

The Foundation: White/Béchamel Sauce

At the heart of the Thanksgiving Pizza is a departure from the usual red pizza sauce. Instead, embrace the richness of a white béchamel sauce. This velvety base adds a luxurious creaminess that complements the medley of Thanksgiving flavors.

The Star Ingredients: Turkey and Cranberries

No Thanksgiving Pizza is complete without the stars of the show — succulent shreds of turkey and the zing of cranberries. These quintessential Thanksgiving elements provide a delightful contrast of textures and tastes, giving each bite a savory and slightly tart kick.

Building Layers of Flavor: Leftover Side Dishes

Elevate your Thanksgiving Pizza by incorporating a variety of leftover side dishes. Whether it's the green bean casserole's crunchy green beans, the comforting familiarity of traditional turkey stuffing, or the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes, each element contributes to a symphony of flavors. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to find your perfect slice.

Truthfully, it really depends on what you have that's in your leftover supply!  Try whatever you have, it's pizza!

Cheesy Bliss: Shredded Cheese Toppings

What's a pizza without a generous sprinkle of cheese? Opt for the traditional Italian blend of mozzarella, parmesan, and asiago for a classic touch. Alternatively, let creativity reign by using whatever cheeses are lingering in your refrigerator. If you have leftover smoked gouda... that's a winner too!

The cheese not only binds the diverse ingredients together but also adds a gooey, melty perfection to every slice.

Bake to Perfection: A Symphony of Aromas

Pop your Thanksgiving Pizza creation into the oven, and let the magic unfold. As the aroma wafts through the kitchen, anticipation builds for a culinary masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of Thanksgiving in every slice.

Serving Suggestions

Bring everyone to the table and present your Thanksgiving Pizza with flair. Garnish with fresh herbs like sage or thyme for an extra burst of flavor. For a finishing touch, drizzle with a balsamic reduction or cranberry sauce, adding a touch of sweetness that ties the ensemble together.

Thanksgiving Pizza isn't just a meal; it's a celebration of culinary creativity and a testament to the joy of reinventing traditions. This year, as you wrap up the festivities, turn your Thanksgiving leftovers into a gastronomic delight that will have your loved ones eagerly anticipating the next chapter of this delicious tradition. From the first bite to the last, Thanksgiving Pizza is a symphony of flavors that honors the past while embracing the joy of culinary exploration.