Transform your holiday leftovers into a comforting, savory pot pie that’s a family favorite in every bite. Perfect for cozy dinners!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Pot Pie is not just a dish; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening. With its flaky, golden crust and rich, creamy filling, it takes the best parts of your holiday feast and turns them into a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy. The combination of tender turkey, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s an excellent way to reduce food waste and make the most of your holiday cooking efforts. Whether served on a quiet night at home or as a part of a larger family gathering, this pot pie is sure to be a hit.
Introduction
As the holiday season draws to a close, many of us find ourselves with an abundance of leftover turkey. While turkey sandwiches and salads are delicious, why not elevate those leftovers into something extraordinary? Enter the Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Pot Pie! This recipe is a celebration of flavors, textures, and the spirit of togetherness that defines the holiday season. With a creamy filling that envelops chunks of tender turkey and vibrant vegetables, all encased in a flaky pie crust, this dish is the perfect way to honor your holiday feast while creating new memories around the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 3 cups leftover cooked turkey (chopped, mix of white and dark meat)
- 1 cup carrots (diced)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup onions (diced)
- ½ cup celery (diced)
- ⅓ cup butter
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ¾ cups chicken broth
- ⅔ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 package (14.1 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt ⅓ cup of butter. Add the diced onions, carrots, celery, and frozen peas. Sauté the vegetables until they are just tender, about 5-7 minutes. Once the vegetables are cooked, stir in the chopped turkey and sprinkle in the dried thyme and rosemary. Mix well to combine all the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld together for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking it for about 1-2 minutes until it’s lightly golden. Gradually add the chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook the mixture until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of poultry seasoning for added flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Filling and Sauce
Once the sauce has thickened, pour it over the turkey and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Stir gently to coat all the ingredients in the creamy sauce, ensuring an even distribution of flavors. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 4: Assemble the Pot Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one of the refrigerated pie crusts and fit it into a deep pie dish or casserole. Pour the turkey and vegetable mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly. Take the second pie crust and place it over the filling. Trim any excess crust and crimp the edges to seal. Cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. For a beautiful golden finish, brush the top crust with an egg wash (a beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of water).
Step 5: Bake
Place the assembled pot pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the edges of the crust begin to brown too quickly, cover them with strips of aluminum foil. Once baked, remove the pot pie from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this scrumptious turkey pot pie with a side of cranberry sauce for a delightful contrast of flavors. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables can also complement the dish beautifully, adding a fresh touch to your meal. For a cozy evening, pair it with a glass of your favorite white wine or a warm apple cider.
Tips
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the pie just before baking for a fresh, warm meal.
- Freezing: This pot pie freezes well! After assembling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like corn, green beans, or mushrooms based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor. Consider adding chopped parsley or sage for an extra layer of taste.
- Crust Alternatives: If you prefer a healthier option, consider using a whole wheat crust or a cauliflower crust for a lighter version.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
45 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion
The Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Pot Pie is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to bring family and friends together, sharing warmth and love through food. This dish perfectly encapsulates the essence of the holiday season—comfort, gratitude, and togetherness. With its creamy filling and flaky crust, it’s a delightful way to repurpose your holiday leftovers into a meal that feels special and indulgent. So, the next time you find yourself with leftover turkey, remember this pot pie recipe and create a delicious dish that will be cherished by all.
Questions and Answers
1. Can I use turkey breast only for this recipe?
Yes, you can use only turkey breast if you prefer. However, mixing both white and dark meat enhances the flavor and moisture of the filling.
2. What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you want to make this dish vegetarian, you can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth. It will still provide a delicious base for the creamy sauce.
3. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this pot pie gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux and a gluten-free pie crust. Many stores offer frozen gluten-free crust options.
4. Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like corn, green beans, or mushrooms to customize the filling to your liking.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pot pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
