Nothing says Thanksgiving like the warm, comforting flavors of turkey—but what if you could enjoy all that flavor in a fun, bite-sized form? That’s exactly what inspired me to create these Thanksgiving Turkey Spinach Rolls. The first time I rolled up tender turkey, fresh spinach, and a hint of savory herbs inside flaky pastry, I knew I’d stumbled onto a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. What I love most is how easy they come together, making the holiday kitchen hustle a little lighter without sacrificing that festive spirit. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just craving a homemade twist on tradition, these rolls balance hearty goodness with fresh greens in every delicious bite. Ready to surprise your taste buds? Let’s roll!
Why Choose Thanksgiving Turkey Spinach Rolls?
Simplicity makes these rolls a breeze to prepare, perfect for all skill levels. Flavor-packed bites combine savory turkey with fresh spinach and herbs, creating a festive, mouthwatering experience. Versatility shines—serve as appetizers, snacks, or a light meal. Time-saving pastry shortcut means less fuss, more flavor. Plus, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any holiday table!
Thanksgiving Turkey Spinach Rolls Ingredients
For the Filling
- Cooked turkey – Use leftover roasted turkey or deli slices for a quick, flavorful protein boost.
- Fresh spinach – Wilt slightly before rolling to avoid sogginess while keeping vibrant color.
- Cream cheese – Adds creamy richness and helps bind the filling together smoothly.
- Garlic powder – A pinch enhances savory depth without overpowering delicate turkey flavors.
- Fresh herbs (thyme or sage) – Bring that classic Thanksgiving aroma and fresh taste to every bite.
- Salt and pepper – Season carefully to balance all the savory elements perfectly.
For the Dough
- Store-bought puff pastry – A time-saving shortcut that yields flakey, golden rolls with minimal effort.
- Egg wash (egg + water) – Brush on top for that irresistible glossy, golden finish.
Optional Extras
- Shredded cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar) – Melted cheese inside makes the rolls even more indulgent and gooey.
- Cranberry sauce – Serve on the side or a dollop inside for a sweet-tart surprise that screams holiday.
Enjoy using these ingredients to create your mouthwatering Thanksgiving Turkey Spinach Rolls with ease and festive flair!
How to Make Thanksgiving Turkey Spinach Rolls
- Preheat Oven: Preheat Oven at 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment, ensuring even heat so pastry gets flaky, golden-brown and perfectly crisp edges.
- Mix Filling: In a bowl, stir turkey, fresh spinach, cream cheese, garlic powder, herbs, salt, and pepper until creamy and well combined.
- Roll Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out pastry into a 12×9-inch rectangle, about ¼-inch thick for uniform, golden puff and flakiness.
- Assemble Rolls: Spread filling evenly across dough, leaving 1-inch border. Roll into a tight log, then slice into clean 1-inch pinwheels.
- Egg Wash: Brush each roll with egg wash before baking, giving them that irresistible glossy, golden finish that seals in moisture.
- Bake Rolls: Arrange on prepared sheet, bake 15–18 min at 400°F until puff pastry is flaky, golden brown, and the bottoms are crisp.
Optional: Sprinkle minced fresh thyme atop rolls before serving for extra holiday aroma.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
The Thanksgiving Turkey Spinach Rolls are perfect for meal prep, making your holiday cooking a breeze! You can prepare the filling (turkey, spinach, cream cheese, and herbs) up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. The puff pastry can also be rolled up and sliced into pinwheels 24 hours ahead; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, brush them with egg wash and bake straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavor with minimal last-minute fuss!
Variations & Substitutions for Thanksgiving Turkey Spinach Rolls
Feel free to get creative with these delightful rolls by switching up ingredients and flavors to suit your taste!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free puff pastry to accommodate dietary needs while keeping that flaky texture intact.
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Veggie-Packed: Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the filling for an extra burst of color and flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the filling for a zesty twist that’ll surprise your guests.
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Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for an indulgent, gooey filling that melts beautifully.
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Herb-infused: Experiment with different fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, to infuse your rolls with a unique aromatic profile.
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Savory Alternatives: Swap turkey for shredded chicken or even seasoned lentils for a vegetarian-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
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Acorn Medley: Add dried cranberries or chopped walnuts to the filling for a sweet and crunchy surprise that enhances holiday flavors.
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Savory Pastry: Brush the puff pastry with garlic-infused olive oil before rolling for a savory, aromatic base that elevates your rolls.
These variations let you tailor your Thanksgiving Turkey Spinach Rolls, ensuring every bite is a memorable delight that captures the spirit of the season!
Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Turkey Spinach Rolls
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your cream cheese and turkey sit out briefly before mixing for a smoother, easier-to-spread filling that blends beautifully.
- Avoid Overfilling: Spread the filling in a thin, even layer to prevent rolls from bursting and ensure even baking of your Thanksgiving Turkey Spinach Rolls.
- Preheat Oven Thoroughly: Make sure your oven is fully heated to 400°F before baking to achieve that perfect flaky, golden puff pastry.
- Chill Before Slicing: If dough feels too soft, refrigerate the rolled log for 10–15 minutes to make slicing clean, uniform pinwheels much easier.
- Brush Egg Wash Gently: Apply a thin, even coat of egg wash to avoid soggy spots and get a glossy, appetizing finish on every roll.
- Wilt Spinach Properly: Sauté spinach just until wilted and drain well to keep the rolls crisp and prevent soggy pastry.
How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Turkey Spinach Rolls
Room Temperature: After baking, allow rolls to cool completely before storing at room temperature for up to 2 hours, covered loosely with a kitchen towel to maintain some moisture.
Fridge: For longer storage, place cooled rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispness.
Freezer: To freeze Thanksgiving Turkey Spinach Rolls, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Turkey Spinach Rolls?
Transform your holiday feast into a delightful spread with these complementary dishes that enhance the flavors of your savory rolls.
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Cranberry Sauce: A classic Thanksgiving pairing, its sweet-tart notes cut through the richness of the rolls, creating a perfect balance.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these potatoes add a comforting texture while their garlic notes elevate every bite.
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Mixed Green Salad: Bright, fresh greens and a light vinaigrette offer a crisp contrast, complementing the rich turkey spinach rolls beautifully.
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Stuffing: The traditional flavors of savory herbs, spices, and bread create a cozy addition that feels right at home with turkey flavors.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges and nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts provide a delightful crunch, enhancing the overall experience.
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Pumpkin Soup: Warm and velvety, this seasonal dish brings a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory rolls.
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Apple Cider: This refreshing beverage, with its hint of spice, offers a crisp sip that complements the meal and cleanses the palate nicely.
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Pecan Pie: For a sweet finish, this nutty dessert provides a rich, indulgent way to end the meal while keeping that festive touch alive.
Thanksgiving Turkey Spinach Rolls Recipe FAQs
How fresh should the spinach be for the rolls?
For the best flavor and texture, choose bright green, crisp spinach leaves without dark spots or wilting. Fresh spinach will provide a vibrant color and a lovely mild taste that complements the turkey perfectly.
What’s the best way to store leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Spinach Rolls?
Allow the rolls to cool fully, then place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before serving, warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to bring back their flaky goodness.
Can I freeze these rolls, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! Freeze them for up to 3 months by individually wrapping each roll tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed and crisp.
What if my rolls turn soggy after baking? How can I fix that?
Sogginess usually happens if the spinach isn’t properly wilted or drained. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach before mixing. Also, brushing a thin egg wash on the pastry seals in moisture and keeps the crust crisp and golden.
Are Thanksgiving Turkey Spinach Rolls safe for pets or anyone with allergies?
These rolls contain turkey, dairy cream cheese, and wheat-based puff pastry, so they’re not suitable for dogs or those with dairy/gluten allergies. For allergy-friendly variations, consider substituting gluten-free pastry and vegan cream cheese, and consult with a vet before sharing any human food with pets.
Easy Thanksgiving Turkey Spinach Rolls That Wow Every Guest
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven at 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment.
- In a bowl, stir turkey, fresh spinach, cream cheese, garlic powder, herbs, salt, and pepper until creamy and well combined.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out pastry into a 12×9-inch rectangle, about ¼-inch thick.
- Spread filling evenly across dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Roll into a tight log, then slice into 1-inch pinwheels.
- Brush each roll with egg wash before baking.
- Arrange on prepared sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes until puff pastry is flaky and golden brown.
