5 Unexpected Things to Do with Leftover Cranberry Sauce

Canned cranberry sauce is one of the most common Thanksgiving leftovers. Cranberry sauce is controversial, so it doesn’t fly off the table like mashed potatoes, rolls, and pie. Because of that, it’s common to have Tupperwares of leftover cranberry sauce filling our fridges for days after Thanksgiving.

I think cranberry sauce is very underrated. And I especially love leftover cranberry sauce. It’s so versatile! How versatile, you may ask? Let me show you! This is what to do with leftover cranberry sauce.

Use it as a Pizza Sauce

Take store bought pizza dough, flatbread, or naan, and spread a generous layer of leftover cranberry sauce. This works best with whole-berry canned cranberry sauce. Then, top that with slices of brie, sliced red onion, and some chilies. Pop it in the oven and you have one hell of a pizza. The sweetness of the cranberry sauce pairs perfectly with the rest of the flavors. You’ll forget that this is Thanksgiving leftovers and not an artisanal flatbread from a local bistro. You don’t think it’s a good idea to put cranberries on pizza? DiGiorno disagrees.

Use it as an Ingredient in Salad Dressing

Olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, and some cranberry sauce make a great, sweet and tart salad dressing that’s perfect for topping an autumnal salad of greens, dried cranberries, roasted sweet potatoes, and goat cheese. If you’re looking for something even easier, blend up leftover cranberry sauce with your favorite balsamic vinaigrette for the same effect!

Use it as a Mix-In for Brownies

I know this sounds weird, but trust me. It’s good! Pour half your brownie mix into a pan, then top it with some slices of canned cranberry sauce. Pour the rest of the mix on top and bake according to the instructions. You’ll have very festive cranberry brownies that will wow a crowd with their moistness and creativity because this is one of the most surprising uses for Thanksgiving leftovers.

Use it as a Sauce for Meatballs

You’ll never be asking yourself what to do with leftover cranberry sauce again after making these meatballs. The classic (and infamous) crockpot party meatballs are made using frozen meatballs, chili sauce, and grape jelly. For a more seasonal rendition, swap the grape jelly for leftover cranberry sauce! This is an easy appetizer or meal that makes your Thanksgiving leftovers undetectable. Bonus points if you serve this over leftover mashed potatoes.

Use it on a PB&J

Sub canned cranberry sauce for jelly on a PB&J for a fun, seasonal twist on the classic sandwich. It’s so good when you combine it with your favorite peanut butter. This is quite the crowd-pleaser for kids and adults. It’s one of the best uses for Thanksgiving leftovers because it’s so quick, simple, and tasty.