Turkey Cranberry Spring Rolls: Thanksgiving Leftovers Reinvented

When Thanksgiving Meets Spring Roll Magic

A close-up of crispy spring rolls with visible turkey and
A close-up of crispy spring rolls with visible

Ever wondered what happens when you take the cozy, comforting flavors of Thanksgiving and give them a crispy, handheld makeover? Enter the Turkey Cranberry Spring Rolls—a creative twist that transforms your post-holiday fridge into a treasure trove of snackable delights.

Picture this: tender chunks of roasted turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and a hint of stuffing spices, all wrapped in a golden, crispy shell. It’s like your favorite holiday meal got a street-food upgrade, perfect for nibbling while you debate whether to watch football or dive into Black Friday deals.

Why Spring Rolls Are the Ultimate Leftover Hack

A side-by-side comparison of a traditional Thanksgiving plate and a
A side-by-side comparison of a traditional Thanksgiving plate

Let’s face it—after Thanksgiving, your fridge is a fortress of leftovers. But turkey sandwiches can only take you so far. Spring rolls are the unsung hero of repurposing, turning mundane remnants into something exciting.

They’re also a genius way to sneak in those extra veggies (hello, leftover green beans or sweet potatoes) without anyone batting an eye. Plus, who doesn’t love a snack you can eat with one hand while balancing a plate of pie in the other?

Ingredients: Your Fridge’s Greatest Hits

A flat-lay of spring roll ingredients: sliced turkey, cranberry sauce,
A flat-lay of spring roll ingredients: sliced turkey,

The Essentials

This recipe is all about flexibility. Use what you’ve got, but here’s a starting lineup:

  • Leftover turkey: Shredded or sliced, it’s the star of the show.
  • Cranberry sauce: Homemade or canned—no judgment here.
  • Stuffing crumbs: For that unmistakable Thanksgiving crunch.
  • Spring roll wrappers: Found in the Asian foods aisle, they’re your crispy canvas.

Optional Add-Ins

Get creative with these extras:

  • Sweet potatoes: Mashed or diced, they add a touch of sweetness.
  • Green beans: Leftover casserole? Chop it up and toss it in.
  • Herbs: Fresh sage or thyme brings a burst of freshness.

Step-by-Step: Rolling Like a Pro

Hands assembling a spring roll: one hand placing filling on
Hands assembling a spring roll: one hand placing

Rolling spring rolls might seem intimidating, but it’s easier than pie crust. Here’s how to nail it:

  1. Prep the filling: Mix turkey, cranberry sauce, and stuffing crumbs in a bowl. Keep it chunky for texture.
  2. Set up your station: Place a wrapper on a damp towel, fill with a spoonful of mixture, and fold like a burrito (bottom up, sides in).
  3. Seal the deal: Brush the edges with water to seal, then roll tightly. Repeat until your filling is gone.

Pro tip: If frying feels daunting, bake them at 400°F for 20 minutes. They’ll still get crispy, promise.

Dipping Sauces: Because Everything’s Better Dipped

Three small bowls of dipping sauces—one with gravy, one with
Three small bowls of dipping sauces—one with gravy,

No spring roll is complete without a sidekick sauce. Here are three ideas that play up the holiday vibes:

  • Gravy: Warm up leftover gravy for a classic dip.
  • Cranberry dipping sauce: Mix cranberry sauce with a splash of orange juice and a pinch of ginger.
  • Spicy mayo: Combine mayo, sriracha, and a squeeze of lime for a tangy kick.

FAQ: Your Spring Roll Questions Answered

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the rolls, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. Fry or bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

What if I don’t have spring roll wrappers?

Try wonton wrappers or even flour tortillas in a pinch. They won’t be as crispy, but they’ll still taste amazing.

Can I air-fry these?

Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How long do leftovers last?

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.