Introduction
Turkey pot pie is a comforting and hearty dish that brings a taste of home to your dinner table. This delightful recipe features a flaky, buttery crust filled with tender pieces of turkey, fresh vegetables, and a savory gravy. It’s an ideal way to use up leftover turkey after the holidays or to simply indulge in a classic comfort food treat. Perfect for chilly nights, this turkey pot pie is sure to please the whole family.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Turkey: 3 cups cooked, shredded turkey
Carrots: 1 cup chopped
Celery: 1 cup chopped
Onion: 1 medium onion, diced
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Frozen peas: 1 cup
Chicken broth: 2 cups
Heavy cream: 1/2 cup
Butter: 4 tablespoons
Flour: 1/3 cup
Thyme: 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
Pillsbury pie crusts: 2 (store-bought)
Egg: 1 (for egg wash)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Filling
Start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing until softened. Incorporate minced garlic, thyme, and a pinch of salt, cooking for another minute.
Add the Turkey
Stir in shredded cooked turkey and peas. Continue cooking for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Create the Sauce
Sprinkle flour over the turkey and vegetable mixture, stirring well to combine. Slowly add chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, and then remove it from heat.
Prepare the Pie Crust
Roll out your pie crust on a floured surface to fit your pie dish. Place the bottom crust in the dish, ensuring it covers the base and sides adequately.
Assemble the Pot Pie
Pour the turkey filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Cover with the top crust, sealing the edges by crimping with your fingers or a fork. Cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
Bake the Pot Pie
Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cool Before Serving
Allow the pot pie to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving to let the filling set.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to substitute leftover holiday turkey or rotisserie chicken.
Vegetable Variations
You can add or swap vegetables based on your preference, such as mushrooms, corn, or green beans.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze the assembled pot pie before baking. Cover tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
Reheating
Reheat individual slices in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Cook techniques
Making a Flaky Pie Crust
Creating a flaky pie crust involves using cold ingredients and minimal handling of the dough. Use chilled butter or shortening, and mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. This helps achieve the desired flakiness.
Creating a Creamy Filling
For a creamy filling, start by making a roux with butter and flour, then gradually whisk in broth and milk. Simmer until thickened, which creates a rich base for your turkey pot pie.
Sautéing Vegetables
Sauté fresh vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery in a bit of oil or butter until they are tender. This step enhances the flavor of the filling and adds texture.
Pre-Baking the Pie Crust
Pre-baking the pie crust, also known as blind baking, ensures a crisp texture. Place parchment paper with pie weights in the crust and bake until slightly golden before adding the filling.
Assembling the Pie
When assembling the pie, layer the filling evenly and cover with another crust. Seal the edges by crimping them together to prevent leakage and ensure a beautiful finish.
Baking the Pie
Bake the assembled pie in a preheated oven until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. This ensures the dish is heated through and the flavors meld together beautifully.
FAQ
Can I use leftover turkey for this recipe?
Yes, leftover turkey is perfect for turkey pot pie and adds great flavor to the dish.
Can I make the pie crust ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie crust in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble the pie.
What vegetables can I substitute in the filling?
You can use any vegetables you enjoy, such as peas, corn, or green beans, based on your preference.
How can I make the pie gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free turkey pot pie, use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust and thicken the filling with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour alternative.
How do I store leftover turkey pot pie?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Conclusion
The turkey pot pie is a comforting and delicious dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its flaky crust and savory filling, it’s perfect for using up leftover turkey while providing a delightful dining experience for the whole family. This recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted to suit personal tastes and dietary preferences.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Pot Pie
Swap turkey for chicken in the pot pie recipe for a classic favorite. Add vegetables like peas and carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
Vegetable Pot Pie
For a vegetarian option, fill the pot pie with a medley of vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini, along with hearty beans or lentils for protein.
Shepherd’s Pie
Transform the idea of pot pie by using a base of mashed potatoes instead of crust. Layer ground meat, vegetables, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes.
Beef Pot Pie
Substitute turkey with beef for a heartier version of pot pie, using tender cuts mixed with hearty vegetables, and a rich gravy.
Quiche
Instead of a pot pie, try a quiche filled with eggs, cream, cheese, and your choice of vegetables or meats for a different twist on savory pies.
Curry Pot Pie
Incorporate curry flavors by adding curry powder, coconut milk, and mixed vegetables for an exotic twist on the traditional pot pie.
Pasta Bake
If you want to switch it up, consider a pasta bake using similar ingredients – turkey, vegetables, and cheese baked with pasta for a comforting casserole.