After a bustling holiday season filled with family feasts, I was left staring at a mountain of leftover turkey in my fridge. Rather than resigning myself to cold sandwiches, I decided it was time for something special. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of transforming those uninspiring leftovers into a cozy, homemade Leftover Turkey Pot Pie.
The moment that golden, flaky crust starts to crisp in the oven, the rich aroma of turkey mingling with sautéed vegetables fills the kitchen—it’s pure comfort food magic. Every bite is a warm hug, bringing to mind memories of cherished gatherings and home-cooked meals.
What’s even better? This recipe is not just about the turkey; it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you have chicken or even a medley of veggies, you can craft a delightful pot pie that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal fuss, your leftovers can turn into a hearty dish that will impress everyone around the table. Get ready to revive those holiday flavors in the most delicious way!
Why are these Leftover Turkey Pot Pies irresistible?
Comforting Aroma: The moment you pull them from the oven, the warm scent wraps around you like a cozy blanket.
Versatile Ingredients: With chicken or a veggie twist, you can adapt this recipe to whatever you have on hand.
Effortless Prep: Minimal fuss means you can spend more time enjoying and less time in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Every bite is packed with flavor, making it a guaranteed hit with family and friends.
Make-Ahead Option: Assemble in advance, pop it in the fridge, and bake when you’re ready for a hearty, homestyle meal.
Experience the comforting magic of homemade pot pies today!
Leftover Turkey Pot Pie Ingredients
For the Filling
• Butter – Adds richness and flavor; substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
• Onion – The aromatic base flavor; can substitute with shallots for a sweeter taste.
• Celery – Provides crunch and freshness; diced bell peppers can be used for a different flavor profile.
• All-purpose Flour – Thickens the filling; cornstarch works for a gluten-free option.
• Chicken Broth – Adds moisture and enhances taste; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
• Milk – Brings creaminess to the filling; use half-and-half for richer flavor or almond milk for a dairy-free option.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavors; adjust to taste based on the saltiness of the broth.
• Black Pepper – Adds warmth and bite; substitute with white pepper for a more subtle heat.
• Celery Seed – Adds an extra layer of flavor; omit if not available.
• Cooked Turkey – The star of the dish; can substitute with cooked chicken or a mix of vegetables.
• Frozen Mixed Vegetables – A convenient and colorful addition; fresh veggies may require cooking adjustments.
• Unbaked Pie Crusts – Provides flakiness; store-bought for convenience or homemade for a personal touch.
For the Optional Topping
• Egg Wash – Brush on top for a golden finish; can be made with a beaten egg mixed with a splash of water.
Dive into a delightful journey of flavor with these Leftover Turkey Pot Pie ingredients, perfect for transforming your holiday leftovers into a heartwarming dish!
How to Make Leftover Turkey Pot Pie
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Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a pie plate by placing one unbaked pie crust inside, pricking it with a fork to allow steam to escape.
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Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and celery, cooking for about 3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
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Whisk in flour, followed by the chicken broth, stirring until everything is well combined and smooth.
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Pour in the milk and dash in the seasonings. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, until it thickens up nicely.
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Stir in the cooked turkey and frozen mixed vegetables, making sure everything is thoroughly combined before pouring it into the prepared crust.
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Top with the second pie crust, sealing the edges well. Cut a few slits in the top to let steam escape during baking.
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Brush with an egg wash for that beautiful golden finish, if desired.
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Bake for 35-40 minutes until the filling is bubbling and the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Optional: Serve with a light salad to complement the hearty pot pie.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Leftover Turkey Pot Pies
- Prevent Sogginess: Poke holes in the bottom crust before filling to allow steam to escape and keep your crust crisp.
- Even Cooking: Cover the pie edges with foil during baking to prevent them from burning while the filling cooks through.
- Avoid Spills: Keep your pot pie from overflowing by not overfilling; leave about half an inch from the top of the crust.
- Watch for Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your pie—the filling should bubble, and the crust should be golden, generally taking 35-40 minutes.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can assemble your Leftover Turkey Pot Pie a day in advance, storing it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
How to Store and Freeze Leftover Turkey Pot Pie
- Fridge: Store any unbaked pot pie in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent drying out.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled pot pie for up to 3 months. Wrap securely in foil or an airtight container to protect it from freezer burn.
- Reheating: Bake from frozen at 425°F (220°C) for 50-60 minutes or until heated through and crust is golden. You can also refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for best results.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare your Leftover Turkey Pot Pie in advance, as it can be assembled ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Make Ahead Options
These Leftover Turkey Pot Pies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy comforting flavors without the last-minute rush! You can assemble the entire pot pie up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. To maintain the crust’s flakiness, avoid adding any egg wash until you’re ready to pop it in the oven. When it’s time to serve, preheat your oven and bake the pie directly from the fridge—no need to let it come to room temperature. This way, you’ll have a warm, hearty meal ready to impress without any of the fuss on busy weeknights!
Leftover Turkey Pot Pie Variations
Customize your pot pie creation with some delightful twists that elevate your dish to new heights!
- Chicken Upgrade: Swap out turkey for juicy rotisserie chicken for a quick and equally delicious option.
- Vegetarian Delight: Omit the meat entirely and load up on hearty mushrooms and colorful bell peppers for a satisfying veggie pot pie.
- Creamy Herb Boost: Add a splash of cream and your favorite fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a rich, fragrant filling.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your pot pie a warming heat that tantalizes the taste buds!
- Cheesy Love: Mix in a cup of shredded cheese like cheddar or Gruyère to melt into the filling for an indulgent, creamy texture.
- Savory Twist: Incorporate potatoes or sweet potatoes cut into small cubes for a delightful twist that brings extra heartiness to your pie.
- Element of Sweet: Toss in some sweet corn or diced carrots for a hint of sweetness that beautifully balances the savory flavors.
- Crust Alternatives: Try a puff pastry or biscuit topping for a fun texture change that still delivers on that flaky, comforting experience.
With these variations, your Leftover Turkey Pot Pie will not only use up those holiday leftovers but also inspire your culinary creativity every time you make it!
What to Serve with Leftover Turkey Pot Pie?
Creating the perfect meal means adding complementary sides that enhance the warm flavors of your dish.
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Light Green Salad: A refreshing salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pot pie. Toss in some nuts or seeds for added crunch.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread provides a comforting side, ideal for soaking up any delicious filling that spills out of the pot pie.
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Steamed Veggies: Bright, tender vegetables like green beans or broccoli offer a fresh contrast to the creamy filling, rounding out your meal beautifully. Try drizzling a bit of lemon juice for added zing!
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Cranberry Sauce: A small serving of cranberry sauce brings a touch of tartness that cuts through the richness of the pot pie, adding a pop of flavor that’s perfect for this comfort dish.
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Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a delightful texture and can be used to complement the pot pie’s filling, creating a hearty experience on your plate.
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Chardonnay: Pairing a crisp Chardonnay with your meal elevates the experience. The wine’s fruity notes harmonize wonderfully with the savory elements of the pot pie.
Serving these delightful sides alongside your Leftover Turkey Pot Pie will create a comforting and satisfying dining experience that your family will cherish!
Leftover Turkey Pot Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best turkey for my pot pie?
Absolutely! When selecting turkey for your pot pie, opt for meat that is tender and moist, ideally leftover from a juicy roast or rotisserie chicken. Avoid turkey with dark spots or a sour smell, as these are signs of spoilage.
How long can I store leftover turkey pot pie in the refrigerator?
Very! You can refrigerate your leftovers for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent them from absorbing flavors from other foods in the fridge.
Can I freeze unbaked leftover turkey pot pie?
Absolutely! To freeze an unbaked pot pie, wrap it securely in foil or place it in an airtight container to avoid freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake it, there’s no need to thaw; simply pop it in the oven straight from the freezer!
What should I do if my pot pie filling is too runny?
No worries! If you find your filling is a bit runny, you can always thicken it by creating a slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth, then stir this into the filling while it simmers. Let it cook for a few more minutes to thicken.
Can I make this pot pie vegetarian?
The more the merrier! Simply substitute the turkey with a mix of your favorite vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, and carrots. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a rich flavor without meat. This way, you’ll still experience that delightful comfort of a pot pie.
How do I reheat leftover turkey pot pie?
Absolutely! The best way to reheat your pot pie is to place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes. This ensures that the crust stays nice and flaky while warming the filling evenly. You can cover it with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
Irresistible Leftover Turkey Pot Pies for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a pie plate by placing one unbaked pie crust inside, pricking it with a fork to allow steam to escape.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and celery, cooking for about 3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
- Whisk in flour, followed by the chicken broth, stirring until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Pour in the milk and dash in the seasonings. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, until it thickens up nicely.
- Stir in the cooked turkey and frozen mixed vegetables, making sure everything is thoroughly combined before pouring it into the prepared crust.
- Top with the second pie crust, sealing the edges well. Cut a few slits in the top to let steam escape during baking.
- Brush with an egg wash for that beautiful golden finish, if desired.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until the filling is bubbling and the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.