As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, I find myself craving the warm, comforting flavors of a classic turkey pot pie. There’s something incredibly satisfying about taking leftover turkey and transforming it into a dish that feels both nostalgic and new.
I love the way the buttery crust envelops a creamy filling packed with tender turkey and vibrant vegetables, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this turkey pot pie always brings smiles to the table.
Join me as I share my favorite recipe, perfect for celebrating those cherished leftovers and creating lasting memories!
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 to 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or to taste)
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 recipe for a double pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). - Prepare the Filling:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens into a gravy-like consistency.
- Stir in the turkey and frozen peas (if using). Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Assemble the Pot Pie:
- Roll out half of your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate.
- Pour the turkey filling into the crust.
- Roll out the second half of the pie crust and place it over the filling. Seal and crimp the edges. Cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Brush the top crust with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
- Serve:
Allow to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
This recipe is versatile; feel free to substitute other vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Enjoy your homemade turkey pot pie!
Creative Twists
Creative twists on traditional turkey pot pie can elevate this classic dish while incorporating new flavors and ingredients. Here are some innovative ideas to consider:
Turkey Pot Pie Casserole
Transform the pot pie into a casserole by layering the filling in a baking dish and topping it with biscuits instead of a traditional crust. This method simplifies preparation and cleanup while maintaining the comforting flavors of the classic dish.
One-Pan Veggie Pot Pie
Focus on a vegetarian approach by using a variety of vegetables and chickpeas in a creamy herb sauce. Top this mixture with refrigerated biscuits for a quick and satisfying meal that’s packed with nutrients.
Turkey Pot Pie Soup
For a cozy alternative, turn the pot pie into a soup. Combine turkey, vegetables, and seasonings in a broth-based soup, capturing all the flavors of the original dish in a warm bowl.
Skull-Shaped Pot Pies
For a fun twist, especially around Halloween, use crescent roll dough to create individual pot pies in skull-shaped molds. This playful presentation is sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
Pot Pie & Shepherd’s Pie Fusion
Combine the elements of turkey pot pie with shepherd’s pie by layering mashed potatoes on top of the turkey filling. This hearty dish is perfect for using up leftover turkey and mashed potatoes from Thanksgiving.
Turkey Pot Pie with Béchamel Sauce
Incorporate a low-calorie béchamel sauce as the base for your filling instead of the traditional gravy. This twist not only reduces calories but also adds a creamy texture that complements the turkey beautifully.
Turkey Pot Pie Popover
Create individual servings by making turkey pot pie popovers. Use a batter similar to Yorkshire pudding to encase the turkey filling, resulting in a light and airy dish that’s easy to serve and eat.
Use Unique Spices or Ingredients
Experiment with spices like curry powder or add ingredients such as cranberries or jalapeños for an unexpected flavor profile that can refresh the traditional taste of turkey pot pie.
These creative twists not only make use of leftover turkey but also introduce new textures and flavors that can make your next meal exciting!
Creative Ways To Serve
Here are some creative ways to serve turkey pot pie that can enhance the dining experience:
Individual Pot Pies
Serve turkey pot pie in individual ramekins or small baking dishes. This not only makes for an appealing presentation but also allows for portion control and easy serving. Each guest can have their own personal pie, which adds a special touch to the meal.
Pot Pie with a Twist
Instead of a traditional crust, consider using puff pastry or biscuit dough on top. Puff pastry creates a flaky, airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling, while biscuits can add a comforting, hearty element.
Serve with Sides
Accompany your turkey pot pie with complementary sides such as:
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with a vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the pie.
- Garlic Herb Dinner Rolls: These can be used to soak up any leftover gravy from the pot pie, enhancing the meal’s comfort factor.
Mashed Potato Topping
For a unique twist, instead of using a crust, top your turkey filling with mashed potatoes piped on top. This creates a shepherd’s pie-like effect and adds a creamy texture that pairs well with the turkey filling.
Mini Pot Pie Bites
Make bite-sized versions using phyllo dough or pastry shells. These mini pot pies are perfect for appetizers or party snacks and allow guests to enjoy the flavors in a fun, hand-held format.
6. Garnish and Flavor Enhancements
Enhance the presentation by garnishing each serving with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving. This not only adds color but also fresh flavor that complements the dish.
7. Themed Serving Dishes
Use rustic or themed dishes to serve your pot pie, such as cast iron skillets or wooden boards for a cozy, homey feel. This can make the meal feel more special and inviting.
These creative serving ideas can transform traditional turkey pot pie into an exciting and memorable meal!