As I stood in the kitchen, the scent of crisping potatoes danced around me, mingling with the nostalgic aroma of turkey and sweet cranberries. It was time for a Turkey Cranberry Hash that would transform my leftovers into a hearty breakfast that felt like a warm hug from the inside out. This recipe not only makes clever use of leftover turkey, but it also delivers a satisfying meal that is equally delightful as a side dish or a cozy morning treat. With its quick prep and adaptable nature, it’s ideal for those busy days when you still crave something flavorful and comforting. So, are you ready to reinvent your holiday feast leftovers into a dish that brings back all those warm memories?
Why is Turkey Cranberry Hash a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This recipe boasts straightforward steps that even novice cooks can master.
Flavor Fusion: The combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberries creates a mouthwatering harmony that elevates your leftovers into something special.
Versatile: Whether enjoyed as a breakfast or a satisfying side dish, this hash adapts to any occasion.
Time-Saving: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for those busy mornings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its hearty nature makes it an instant favorite among family and friends, ensuring no leftovers will remain!
Don’t forget to check out other delicious ways to use your leftover turkey, like our scrumptious Turkey Tetrazzini, for even more variety!
Turkey Cranberry Hash Ingredients
• Perfect for using leftover turkey!
For the Hash
- Yukon Gold Potatoes – Offers a crispy exterior and creamy interior; russet potatoes are a suitable substitute.
- Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing and adding richness; ghee or butter can work well too.
- Green Onions – Adds freshness and a mild crunch; chives can be a great alternative.
- Garlic Cloves – Infuses aromatic flavor; garlic powder can replace fresh cloves if needed.
- Cooked Turkey – The star of the dish, creating a hearty meal; you can use shredded chicken or beef as a substitute.
- Dried Cranberries – Balances savory flavors with a sweet-tart touch; feel free to use raisins or fresh cranberries for a twist.
- Fresh Thyme – Enhances the dish with herbal notes; dried thyme can easily replace fresh.
- Salt and Pepper – Fundamental for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.
- Eggs (optional) – Perfect for topping your hash; poached or soft-boiled eggs add an extra layer of comfort.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Turkey Cranberry Hash
Step 1: Prep Potatoes
Begin by peeling and dicing the Yukon gold potatoes into ½ inch pieces for even cooking. In a medium pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the diced potatoes. Blanch them for about 5 minutes until slightly tender, then drain well to remove excess moisture, ensuring they’ll crisp up beautifully in the pan.
Step 2: Cook Potatoes
In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Once hot, carefully add the drained potatoes in a single layer, allowing them to sizzle and get a delicious golden-brown crust. Cook for about 4-5 minutes undisturbed, then gently stir and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the potatoes are crispy and golden all over.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
With the potatoes ready, stir in the chopped green onions and minced garlic, letting their fragrant aromas fill your kitchen. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring that the garlic doesn’t burn, just until the onions become soft and translucent, adding depth and flavor to your Turkey Cranberry Hash.
Step 4: Incorporate Turkey and Cranberries
Now, add the cooked turkey cubes, dried cranberries, fresh thyme, and a good pinch of salt and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together well and let it sauté for about 5-10 minutes until the turkey is heated through and the cranberries become plump, creating a delightful mix of savory and sweet that defines this hash.
Step 5: Serve
Once your turkey cranberry hash is perfectly combined and heated through, it’s time to serve! You can either enjoy it as is or elevate it by topping each serving with a poached or soft-boiled egg for a truly satisfying breakfast experience. Embrace this delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table.
Make Ahead Options
These Turkey Cranberry Hash components are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy mornings! You can fully prepare the hash up to 24 hours in advance by cooking and mixing the potatoes, turkey, and cranberries. Simply refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the hash in a skillet over medium heat until piping hot, about 5-7 minutes. For the best results, consider adding a splash of olive oil while reheating to regain some crispiness. This makes mealtime effortless and ensures your Turkey Cranberry Hash is just as delicious as when freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Turkey Cranberry Hash
Fridge: Store leftover turkey cranberry hash in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cool the dish before sealing to maintain its freshness.
Freezer: If you want to freeze it, portion the hash into freezer-safe containers and keep it for up to 2 months. Label each container with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. Keep this delicious turkey cranberry hash warm and comforting!
Tips: Avoid refreezing after reheating, as it may affect the texture and flavor of the hash.
Expert Tips for Turkey Cranberry Hash
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Perfect Potato Prep: Make sure to cut the Yukon gold potatoes into uniform ½ inch pieces to ensure even cooking and crispiness in your hash.
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Use a Hot Skillet: Preheat the skillet properly before adding the potatoes to ensure a golden-brown crust forms quickly, preventing them from being soggy.
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Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow potatoes to cook undisturbed for a few minutes to achieve that perfect golden exterior, stirring only once they’re nicely browned.
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Flavor Balance: Feel free to tweak the amount of salt and pepper to your taste preference; remember, the turkey and cranberries will add their own flavors, too.
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Leftover Inspiration: This Turkey Cranberry Hash is wonderfully adaptable! Experiment with different herbs or vegetables and enjoy your leftover turkey in an exciting new way.
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Perfect Egg Topping: To enhance your breakfast experience, add a lightly seasoned poached or soft-boiled egg on top for a creamy addition.
Turkey Cranberry Hash Variations
Feel free to let your creative culinary spirit shine as you customize this comforting dish to suit your taste!
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Chicken Swap: Substitute leftover cooked turkey with shredded chicken for a similar delightful hash. It brings a different yet equally comforting flavor!
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Sweet Potato Twist: Use sweet potatoes instead of Yukon gold for a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color. The creamy texture will add a new dimension of deliciousness.
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Herb Infusion: Replace fresh thyme with fresh rosemary or sage for a fragrant twist that brings the essence of the season right to your plate. Each herb offers its unique character!
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Creamy Finish: Add a splash of heavy cream toward the end of cooking for a rich and creamy coating. The extra indulgence will make every bite feel luxurious!
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Cheesy Delight: Stir in some shredded cheese—like cheddar or gouda—during the last few minutes of cooking. It melts into gooey perfection, taking your hash to new heights of flavor!
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Veggie Boost: Toss in some diced bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color. A quick sauté will enhance their flavors while keeping the dish vibrant and healthy.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the skillet while cooking for a fiery boost. Spice lovers will appreciate that extra zing in each bite!
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Top with Hollandaise: Why not transform your breakfast hash into a decadent brunch? Top your serving with a drizzle of hollandaise sauce for a creamy, tangy finish.
If you’re in the mood for more creative ways to use up your leftovers, try our delicious Turkey Tetrazzini for a unique twist that the whole family will love!
What to Serve with Turkey Cranberry Hash
As you savor the deliciousness of this comforting hash, consider pairing it with delightful additions that elevate your meal experience.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits like berries or melons provide a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the hash.
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Simple Greens Salad: A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette balances the rich turkey and potatoes, adding a fresh crunch to your plate.
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Creamy Scrambled Eggs: The soft, fluffy texture of scrambled eggs enhances the breakfast vibe and pairs beautifully with the seasoned turkey.
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Homemade Cranberry Sauce: A spoonful of cranberry sauce brightens each bite, echoing the flavors within the hash while adding a sweet-tart zing.
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Buttered Toast: Warm, toasted bread provides a crunchy element perfect for scooping up the hash, making each mouthful a hearty delight.
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Warm Biscuits: Fluffy, buttery biscuits are perfect for soaking up any leftover flavors from the hash, creating a delightful fusion of textures.
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Chai Latte: Enjoying a creamy chai latte alongside your hash can add a warming spice to your meal, enhancing the cozy breakfast experience.
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Pumpkin Muffins: These spiced treats can offer a sweet touch that beautifully contrasts the savory hash, making for a well-rounded breakfast or brunch.
Turkey Cranberry Hash Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best potatoes for my hash?
I absolutely recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes for their buttery texture and crispy exterior after cooking. Look for potatoes that are firm and free of dark spots or blemishes. If you can’t find Yukon Gold, russet potatoes are a suitable alternative and should also work well in this hash.
How should I store my leftover Turkey Cranberry Hash?
To keep your Turkey Cranberry Hash fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing to lock in moisture and prevent sogginess. Reheat it in a skillet for the best results, or you could microwave it if you’re short on time!
Can I freeze Turkey Cranberry Hash?
Yes, you can definitely freeze this delicious dish! Portion your Turkey Cranberry Hash into freezer-safe containers and stash them away for up to 2 months. Be sure to label the containers with the date for easy tracking. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
What if my potatoes aren’t crispy?
No worries! If your potatoes didn’t turn out crispy, make sure your skillet is preheated properly before adding them. Try cooking them undisturbed for a few minutes to develop that golden crust, then stir them only once they look brown. If they’re still soft, you can spread them out and cook them longer over higher heat to achieve that perfect texture.
Is this recipe safe for people with allergies?
If you have allergies, it’s essential to consider the ingredients in this Turkey Cranberry Hash. The dish is nut-free, and you can make it gluten-free by ensuring your turkey and any additional seasonings are certified gluten-free. Always check labels, especially on pre-packaged items like olive oil or cranberries. If anyone in your household is allergic to eggs, you can simply skip the optional egg topping without compromising the dish’s deliciousness!
Can I make this hash vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! To create a vegetarian or vegan version of this Turkey Cranberry Hash, substitute the cooked turkey with roasted vegetables or a plant-based protein. You can use tempeh or lentils for added heartiness. Replace the eggs with a touch of nutritional yeast for a savory flavor boost, while still enjoying the comforting and hearty qualities of this dish.
Delicious Turkey Cranberry Hash for Cozy Breakfast Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and dice the Yukon gold potatoes into ½ inch pieces. Bring salted water to a boil and add the diced potatoes. Blanch for about 5 minutes until slightly tender, then drain well.
- Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the drained potatoes in a single layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes undisturbed, then stir and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until crispy and golden.
- Stir in the chopped green onions and minced garlic, sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and onions are soft.
- Add the cooked turkey, dried cranberries, fresh thyme, salt and pepper to the skillet. Stir together and sauté for 5-10 minutes until heated through and cranberries are plump.
- Serve as is, or top each serving with a poached or soft-boiled egg.
