Leftover Turkey Pot Pie

Why Make This Leftover Turkey Pot Pie

There’s something incredibly comforting about a homemade pot pie, especially when it features leftover turkey. This recipe turns your holiday leftovers into a cozy, satisfying meal loved by family and friends. The rich filling, combining tender turkey and a medley of vegetables, is enveloped in a flaky, golden crust that, once baked, provides a delightful crunch with each bite. It’s a delicious way to avoid food waste while enjoying a hearty dish.

How to Make Leftover Turkey Pot Pie

Making leftover turkey pot pie is straightforward and doesn’t require special skills. The process involves sautéing vegetables, creating a creamy filling, and assembling it all in a pie crust. With its short prep and bake time, you can have a mouthwatering meal ready in no time. Each step is simple, and the aromas filling your kitchen as it bakes will make your mouth water in anticipation!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups leftover turkey, shredded
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, etc.)
• 1/3 cup onion, diced
• 1/4 cup celery, diced
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 roll refrigerated pie crusts

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onions and celery, sauté until soft.
3. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add chicken broth and milk, whisking until the mixture thickens.
4. Add leftover turkey, mixed vegetables, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme; stir to combine.
5. Pour the filling into a pie dish lined with one pie crust. Cover with the second crust and seal the edges. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information

Per serving:

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 20g

How to Serve Leftover Turkey Pot Pie

Leftover turkey pot pie is a complete meal on its own, perfect for lunch or dinner. Serve it with a side salad to add freshness and crunch, or enjoy it alongside some roasted vegetables for a fulfilling dinner. You might also consider pairing it with warm bread for dipping into the creamy filling.

How to Store Leftover Turkey Pot Pie

If you have any pot pie left after your meal, storing it is easy! Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze individual servings. Wrap slices in aluminum foil and store them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Expert Tips for Perfect Leftover Turkey Pot Pie

1. Use a Rotisserie Chicken: If you don’t have leftover turkey, a rotisserie chicken makes an excellent substitute.
2. Mix Up the Veggies: Feel free to switch out the mixed vegetables for whatever you have on hand. Broccoli, green beans, or mushrooms would all work well.
3. Crust Options: While store-bought pie crust is convenient, consider making your own for an extra special touch. A biscuit topping can also add a delightful twist.
4. Season to Taste: Adjust the seasonings to your liking. Adding a splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors.
5. Don’t Rush Cooling: Letting the pie cool slightly before serving allows the filling to set, making it easier to slice.

Delicious Variations

1. Creamy Mushroom Pot Pie: Add sautéed mushrooms to enhance the savory flavor.
2. Buffalo Style: Stir in buffalo sauce for a spicy kick that adds excitement to this comfort food.
3. Vegetarian Option: Omit the turkey and double up on the mixed veggies for a tasty vegetable pot pie.
4. Cheesy Delight: Mixing in shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, gives an irresistible cheesy twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh turkey instead of leftovers?
   Yes, cooked turkey works best, but you can cook fresh turkey and shred it before using.

2. How long does it take to bake the pie?
   Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown.

3. Can I freeze the pot pie?
   Absolutely! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat it in the oven for the best texture.

4. What can I use instead of chicken broth?
   Vegetable broth is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter flavor.

5. Is it necessary to use a bottom crust?
   No, you can opt for a top crust only, but the bottom crust adds a nice texture.

6. Can I add more vegetables?
   Certainly! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy or have on hand.

7. How can I tell when the filling is done?
   The filling should be bubbly, and the crust should be golden brown when it’s ready to serve.

8. What should I do if my crust is browning too quickly?
   Cover the edges with aluminum foil to prevent them from burning while the center finishes cooking.

9. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and pie crust.

10. Can I make this recipe in advance?
    Yes! You can prepare everything the day before and bake when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Leftover turkey pot pie is not only a delightful way to repurpose your holiday leftovers but also a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. With its savory filling and flaky crust, it’s perfect for both dinner and lunchtime leftovers. Try making this pot pie today, and don’t forget to share your delicious results with friends and family! Happy cooking!

Leftover Turkey Pot Pie

A comforting and satisfying dish that transforms your holiday turkey leftovers into a delicious pot pie with a flaky crust and rich filling.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Filling

• 2 cups leftover turkey, shredded Can substitute with rotisserie chicken.
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, etc.) Feel free to mix up the veggies.
• 1/3 cup onion, diced
• 1/4 cup celery, diced
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour Can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth Vegetable broth can be used as an alternative.
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon thyme

Crust

• 1 roll refrigerated pie crusts You can make your own crust for a special touch.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onions and celery, sauté until soft.
3. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add chicken broth and milk, whisking until the mixture thickens.
4. Add leftover turkey, mixed vegetables, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme; stir to combine.

Assembly

1. Pour the filling into a pie dish lined with one pie crust. Cover with the second crust and seal the edges.
2. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Cooking

1. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
2. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For the best flavor, consider letting the pie cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set properly. Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.