Gobble-Up Turkey & Cranberry Rolls (Holiday Hand Pies)

Trust me, these rolls are not your average sausage snack. We’re talking golden, flaky pastry wrapped around juicy turkey sausage, kissed with sweet-tart cranberry sauce and a little sage-kissed magic. Think of it as Thanksgiving dinner in one crispy, buttery bite — but totally portable, snackable, and weeknight-friendly. The scent alone, wafting through the kitchen as they bake, will have your whole house hovering near the oven. Whether you’re prepping for a cozy movie night, looking for a festive appetizer, or just need something special to shake up dinner, this one’s a game-changer. It’s playful, it’s nostalgic, and it packs so much flavor into a compact roll, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up. Let’s roll into it, shall we?

Why You’ll Love Gobble-Up Turkey & Cranberry Rolls

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine pulling these from the oven as guests walk in — the smell alone will have them begging for a bite.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples and leftover-friendly ingredients. No need for fancy store runs!
Quick and Easy: The prep is stress-free, beginner-friendly, and ideal even if you’re not a confident baker.
Customizable: Add caramelized onions, brie, a dash of mustard — make them your own!
Crowd-Pleasing: These rolls are kid-approved, party-tested, and holiday-perfect. You’ll definitely need to double the batch.

Ingredients in Gobble-Up Turkey & Cranberry Rolls

Turkey Sausage

Lean turkey sausage gives these rolls a juicy, savory base without feeling too heavy. You can use mild or spicy depending on your vibe.

Cranberry Sauce

Sweet, tangy, and festive — this brings a perfect zing to cut through the richness. Use homemade or store-bought, but whole berry works best for texture.

Puff Pastry

Golden, flaky, and buttery — puff pastry is the magic blanket that makes these handheld pies irresistibly crisp.

Dijon Mustard

A subtle swipe of mustard balances sweetness and brings a tiny tangy kick. You’ll barely taste it, but you’d miss it if it were gone.

Egg Wash

For that gorgeous golden finish that makes them look bakery-worthy.

Fresh Sage (optional)

Adds a cozy, woodsy aroma that pairs perfectly with turkey and cranberry. A sprinkle goes a long way.

Salt & Pepper

Just a touch to enhance and balance all the flavors.

Instructions

Preheat Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the pastry from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Prepare the Sausage Filling

In a pan, cook the turkey sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Break it into crumbles as it cooks, and season with salt, pepper, and finely chopped sage if using. Let it cool slightly.

Roll and Cut Your Pastry

Unroll the puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. Cut it into rectangles — big enough to hold a spoonful of filling but still easy to fold over.

Assemble the Rolls

Spoon a little sausage down the center of each pastry rectangle. Top with a small dollop of cranberry sauce and a thin swipe of Dijon mustard. Fold over and seal the edges with a fork.

Brush with Egg Wash

Beat one egg and brush it over each roll. This gives that irresistible golden glow once baked.

Bake to Perfection

Pop them in the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and deeply golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Let them cool for a few minutes — if you can resist! Then serve warm with extra cranberry sauce or a simple yogurt-mustard dip.

How to Serve Gobble-Up Turkey & Cranberry Rolls

These rolls are perfect with:
Simple Greens: Serve alongside an arugula salad with a light vinaigrette.
Warming Soups: Pair with butternut squash or creamy tomato soup for a cozy meal.
Holiday Spread: Plate them with other finger foods for a festive appetizer table.
Brunch Boards: Add to a holiday breakfast or brunch board with fruit, cheese, and pastries.
As-Is: They’re honestly great straight from the oven with nothing else. That crispy edge is everything!

Additional Tips

Make Ahead: Assemble the rolls and freeze them unbaked. Bake straight from frozen — just add a few extra minutes.
Flavor Boosters: Add chopped walnuts or brie inside for extra richness.
Diet Tweaks: Use vegan puff pastry and plant-based sausage to make it meatless.
Storage: Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven to keep them crispy.
Double It: Trust me, these go fast. You’ll want extras for lunches, snacks, or midnight cravings.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use regular sausage instead of turkey?
A1: Absolutely! Pork or chicken sausage will work too — just adjust seasoning to taste.
Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
A2: Yes! Assemble and freeze unbaked. Bake directly from frozen with a few extra minutes.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
Q4: Can I freeze baked rolls?
A4: Yep — freeze once cooled. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.
Q5: Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce?
A5: For sure. Whole berry versions work best, but jellied is fine if that’s your preference.
Q6: What other cheeses go well in this?
A6: Brie, mozzarella, or sharp cheddar are all great additions for melty richness.
Q7: Can I make these gluten-free?
A7: Use gluten-free puff pastry — several great options are available in stores.
Q8: Can I skip the mustard?
A8: Yes, but it adds great depth. You could substitute with a little mayo or cream cheese for richness.
Q9: What dip goes best with these?
A9: A yogurt-mustard dip, garlic aioli, or even leftover gravy would be delicious!
Q10: Can kids help make these?
A10: Totally! Let them help with assembly and sealing the edges — it’s a fun way to get them involved.

Final Thoughts on Gobble-Up Turkey & Cranberry Rolls

Whether you’re channeling holiday vibes or just want a savory snack with a hint of sweetness, these golden rolls have your back. They’re warm, crispy, and packed with nostalgic flavor in every bite. Plus, they’re super simple to make — perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or lazy weekends. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be craving them year-round. Let the rolling begin!

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