Name: Leftover Turkey Pot Pies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 tbsp unsalted butter; ½ cup sweet onion; ½ cup carrots; ½ cup celery; 2 cups cooked turkey; ¼ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups Stock; ½ cup frozen sweet peas; ½ tsp Fresh Thyme; 2 9-inch pie crusts; 1 egg

Transform your leftover turkey into a comforting and delicious meal with these turkey pot pies. Perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe combines tender turkey, vegetables, and a rich gravy under a flaky pie crust.

Photos of Leftover Turkey Pot Pies Recipe

Fresh thyme might not be a staple in every kitchen, so you'll want to pick some up at the supermarket. Also, if you don't already have pie crusts on hand, you can find them in the refrigerated section. Make sure to get unsalted butter for better control over the seasoning.

Ingredients for leftover turkey pot pies

Butter: Adds rich flavor and helps cook the vegetables.

Onion: Provides a sweet and savory base.

Carrots: Adds sweetness and texture.

Celery: Brings a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness of the carrots.

Turkey: The star of the dish, adding protein and flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

Black pepper: Adds a mild heat.

All-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy.

Stock: Forms the base of the gravy, adding depth of flavor.

Peas: Provides a pop of sweetness and color.

Thyme: Adds a fresh, aromatic flavor.

Pie crusts: Forms the crispy, golden topping.

Egg: Used for the egg wash to give the crust a shiny finish.

One reader, Alexina Mello says:

This leftover turkey pot pie recipe is a game-changer! The filling is rich and flavorful, and the crust turns out perfectly golden. It's a fantastic way to use up turkey, and my family loved it. Definitely adding this to our post-holiday meal rotation!

Alexina Mello

Techniques Required for Making Leftover Turkey Pot Pies

How to chop vegetables: Explanation on how to chop sweet onion, carrots, and celery into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. How to make a roux: Explanation on how to combine butter and flour to create a smooth mixture that will thicken the gravy. How to whisk in stock: Explanation on how to slowly add stock to the roux while whisking to prevent lumps and create a smooth gravy. How to crimp pie crust: Explanation on how to seal the edges of the pie crust by pressing them together with a fork or fingers to prevent filling from leaking out. How to apply egg wash: Explanation on how to brush the top of the pie crust with beaten egg to achieve a golden brown finish.

How To Make Leftover Turkey Pot Pies

Give holiday leftovers a yummy makeover with these turkey pot pies made with veggies base, filled with peas and gravy, and topped with golden pie crust.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 35 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4tbspunsalted butter
½cupsweet onion,diced
½cupcarrots,diced
½cupcelery,diced
2cupscooked turkey,chopped
¼tspsalt
¼tspblack pepper
2tbspall-purpose flour
2cupsstock,chicken or turkey
½cupfrozen sweet peas
½tspfresh thyme,optional
29-inch pie crusts,store-bought or homemade
1egg,plus 1 tbsp water, whisked, for brushing

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Add the butter to a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add onions, carrots, and celery.
Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Stir in chopped turkey and season with salt and pepper.
Add flour to the filling and stir until the mixture is smooth. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes to cook out the flour taste.
Then slowly whisk in the stock to form a light gravy. If the gravy seems too thick, add more stock or water by the ¼ cup.
When the gravy is done, add peas and fresh thyme and remove from heat.
Divide the pot pie filling between ramekins. Fill ramekins up about ¾ of the way full to prevent overflowing.
Cover ramekins with a top piece of pie crust, either store-bought or homemade.
Crimp the edges well and poke a few holes in the center of the pie crust to let steam escape. Brush with egg wash.
Bake the turkey pot pies at 350 degrees F for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown around the edges and in the center.
Let the pot pies cool for a few minutes before serving.
Leftover pot pie will keep well in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat them in a 350-degree F oven until warmed through and piping hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 412.67kcal
Fat: 23.01g
Saturated Fat: 9.91g
Trans Fat: 0.25g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.33g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.73g
Carbohydrates: 35.96g
Fiber: 1.98g
Sugar: 2.44g
Protein: 15.02g
Cholesterol: 72.41mg
Sodium: 448.01mg
Calcium: 27.04mg
Potassium: 276.00mg
Iron: 1.47mg
Vitamin A: 127.81µg
Vitamin C: 4.95mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Leftover Turkey Pot Pies

When adding the flour to the filling, make sure to stir continuously to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth mixture. Cooking the flour for 1 to 2 minutes helps to eliminate any raw flour taste, resulting in a richer and more flavorful gravy.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Leftover Turkey Pot Pies

Prepare the filling: Chop onions, carrots, and celery in advance and store them in the fridge to save time on prep day.

Use pre-cooked turkey: Utilize leftover turkey from a previous meal to cut down on cooking time.

Ready-made crust: Opt for store-bought pie crusts to skip the dough-making process.

Batch cooking: Make a larger batch of the filling and freeze portions for future quick meals.

Microwave thawing: Quickly thaw frozen peas in the microwave to speed up the process.

Substitute Ingredients For Leftover Turkey Pot Pies Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a similar fat content and richness, making it a good alternative for sautéing vegetables.
sweet onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a similar sweetness and texture, making them an excellent substitute.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a similar texture and slightly sweet flavor, which works well in pot pies.
celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel has a similar crunch and adds a slight anise flavor, enhancing the dish.
cooked turkey - Substitute with cooked chicken: Cooked chicken has a similar texture and flavor, making it a perfect substitute for turkey.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness along with a depth of umami flavor.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor without altering the color of the dish.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can thicken the sauce similarly to flour but is gluten-free.
stock - Substitute with broth: Broth provides a similar liquid base and flavor, making it an easy substitute for stock.
frozen sweet peas - Substitute with frozen green beans: Green beans offer a similar texture and slight sweetness, making them a good alternative.
fresh thyme - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme has a concentrated flavor and can be used in smaller quantities to replace fresh thyme.
pie crusts - Substitute with puff pastry: Puff pastry provides a flaky, buttery crust that works well as a substitute for pie crusts.
egg - Substitute with milk: Milk can be used to brush the crust for a similar golden finish if eggs are not available.

Presentation Ideas for Leftover Turkey Pot Pies

Use individual ramekins: Present the turkey pot pies in small, elegant ramekins to maintain portion control and enhance visual appeal.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprig of fresh thyme or a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley on top of the crust after baking for a touch of color and freshness.
Create a golden crust: Ensure the pie crust is brushed with an egg wash to achieve a beautifully golden and glossy finish.
Serve on a stylish plate: Place the ramekin on a large, white plate to create a clean and sophisticated presentation. Add a small side salad or a few roasted vegetables for contrast.
Add a sauce drizzle: Drizzle a light gravy or reduction sauce around the base of the ramekin on the plate to add an extra layer of flavor and elegance.
Use microgreens: Top the pot pie with a small handful of microgreens for a modern and fresh touch that adds both texture and visual interest.
Incorporate edible flowers: Place a few edible flowers on the plate or around the ramekin to elevate the dish with a pop of color and sophistication.
Serve with a side of artisan bread: Accompany the pot pie with a slice of artisan bread or a buttery roll to complement the rich flavors of the filling.
Use a decorative napkin: Fold a decorative napkin and place it under the ramekin to add a touch of elegance and refinement to the overall presentation.
Highlight the filling: Ensure the filling is visible through the steam holes in the crust, showcasing the vibrant colors of the vegetables and turkey for an appetizing look.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Pot Pies

Large skillet: Used for cooking the vegetables and turkey mixture, allowing for even heat distribution.
Whisk: Essential for smoothly incorporating the stock into the flour mixture to form a light gravy.
Ramekins: Individual baking dishes that hold the pot pie filling and crust, ensuring even cooking and easy serving.
Pie crust: Either store-bought or homemade, used to cover the ramekins and create the pot pie crust.
Pastry brush: Used to apply the egg wash to the pie crust, giving it a golden brown finish.
Oven: Preheated to 350 degrees F, used to bake the pot pies until the crust is golden brown.
Knife: For chopping the onions, carrots, and celery into small, even pieces.
Cutting board: A safe surface for chopping vegetables and other ingredients.
Measuring cups: For accurately measuring the butter, vegetables, turkey, stock, and peas.
Measuring spoons: For measuring small quantities of salt, pepper, flour, and thyme.
Mixing spoon: For stirring the vegetables, turkey, and other ingredients in the skillet.
Rolling pin: If using homemade pie crust, this tool helps roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
Fork: Used to crimp the edges of the pie crust and poke holes to let steam escape.
Baking sheet: Placed under the ramekins in the oven to catch any overflow and make it easier to remove the hot dishes.

How To Store and Freeze Leftover Turkey Pot Pies

Let the turkey pot pies cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which can make the crust soggy.
To store leftover pot pies in the refrigerator, place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. They will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
To freeze the pot pies, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, making sure there are no air pockets. Then, place the wrapped pies in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. Label the container with the date and contents.
Frozen turkey pot pies will keep well for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, remove the desired number of pot pies from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
To reheat refrigerated or thawed pot pies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pot pies on a baking sheet and loosely cover them with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
If reheating frozen pot pies directly from the freezer, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen pot pies on a baking sheet and loosely cover them with aluminum foil. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is golden brown. Remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking to allow the crust to crisp up.
Individual portions of the pot pie filling can also be frozen in airtight containers or resealable freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw the filling in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through. Serve the filling in freshly baked pie crusts or over mashed potatoes for a quick and easy meal.

How To Reheat Leftover Turkey Pot Pies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the ideal temperature for reheating pot pies without drying them out or burning the crust.
Place the leftover turkey pot pie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will catch any spillage and make cleanup easier.
If the pie crust is looking a bit pale or soggy, brush it with a beaten egg or a little melted butter. This will help the crust crisp up and turn a beautiful golden brown color.
Cover the pot pie loosely with aluminum foil. This will prevent the crust from burning before the filling is heated through.
Place the pot pie in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the crust is golden brown. The exact time will depend on the size of your pot pie and how cold it was when it went into the oven.
If you want an extra-crispy crust, remove the aluminum foil for the last 5 minutes of baking. This will allow the crust to brown and crisp up nicely.
Once the pot pie is heated through, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set and prevent burns from the hot gravy.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat individual portions of pot pie in the microwave. Place a slice or individual pot pie in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. The crust won't be as crispy as it would be from the oven, but it's a quick and easy option for a fast lunch or dinner.

Random Fact About Leftover Turkey Pot Pies

A fun fact about this leftover turkey pot pie recipe is that it is a great way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers. The combination of vegetables and turkey in a savory pie crust creates a comforting and hearty meal that can be enjoyed for several days.

Is Making Leftover Turkey Pot Pies Economical for Home Cooking?

This leftover turkey pot pie recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Utilizing leftover turkey reduces waste and maximizes value. The vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery are affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. Pie crusts and stock are inexpensive, and the recipe yields a hearty meal. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12 USD.

Are Leftover Turkey Pot Pies Healthy or Unhealthy?

The leftover turkey pot pie recipe is a comforting and satisfying dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to its high content of saturated fat and refined carbohydrates. The recipe relies on butter, pie crusts, and flour-based gravy, which can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels and blood sugar spikes. Additionally, the recipe lacks a significant amount of fiber-rich ingredients, which are essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system and promoting feelings of fullness.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the butter with a healthier cooking oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil, to reduce saturated fat content
Use whole wheat flour for the gravy and opt for a whole wheat or gluten-free pie crust to increase fiber intake
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the filling, such as adding more carrots, celery, and peas, or incorporating additional nutrient-dense vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or kale
Reduce the amount of pie crust used by making open-faced pot pies or using a single crust instead of a top and bottom crust
Experiment with alternative toppings, such as mashed sweet potatoes or a crumble made from nuts and seeds, to boost the nutrient profile of the dish

Editor's Thoughts on This Leftover Turkey Recipe

This leftover turkey pot pie recipe is a fantastic way to repurpose holiday leftovers into a comforting, hearty dish. The combination of tender turkey, sweet peas, and aromatic thyme creates a flavorful filling, while the buttery pie crust adds a delightful crunch. The instructions are clear and straightforward, making it accessible even for novice cooks. Baking individual ramekins ensures perfect portion control and an elegant presentation. Overall, this recipe is a delicious and practical solution for leftover turkey, promising a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed for days.

Enhance Your Leftover Turkey Pot Pies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Elevate your leftover turkey pot pies with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled in a tangy balsamic glaze. The earthy flavors of the sprouts perfectly complement the rich, savory filling of the pies, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Pair your turkey pot pies with creamy garlic mashed potatoes. The smooth, buttery texture of the potatoes will melt in your mouth, offering a delightful contrast to the flaky pie crust and hearty filling.

Cranberry Apple Salad: Add a refreshing twist to your meal with a cranberry apple salad. The crisp apples and tart cranberries provide a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the pot pies, making each bite a delightful experience.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a bowl of butternut squash soup alongside your turkey pot pies. The velvety, slightly sweet soup enhances the savory notes of the pot pies, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweeten your dinner with maple glazed carrots. The natural sweetness of the carrots combined with the rich maple syrup glaze adds a delightful contrast to the savory turkey pot pies, making each bite a symphony of flavors.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Leftover Turkey Pot Pies

Chicken Pot Pie: A comforting classic, this dish features tender chicken mixed with carrots, peas, and celery in a creamy gravy, all encased in a flaky pie crust.

Beef Shepherd's Pie: A hearty and satisfying meal, this pie is filled with seasoned ground beef, carrots, peas, and corn, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked to perfection.

Vegetable Pot Pie: A vegetarian delight, this pot pie is packed with a medley of vegetables like carrots, peas, corn, and potatoes, all in a rich, savory gravy and topped with a golden crust.

Turkey And Wild Rice Soup: A warm and hearty soup, perfect for using up leftover turkey. This soup combines wild rice, carrots, celery, and a flavorful broth for a comforting bowl of goodness.

Chicken And Dumplings: A Southern classic, this dish features tender chicken and vegetables in a rich, creamy broth, topped with fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Leftover Turkey Pot Pies

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Begin by hollowing out button mushrooms and filling them with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and bake until golden brown. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, making each bite a burst of flavor. Serve these warm, and watch them disappear quickly.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian starter that never fails to impress. Toast slices of baguette until they are crisp and golden. Rub each slice with a clove of garlic for an extra layer of flavor. Top with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of the crunchy bread and the fresh, tangy topping is a perfect way to whet your appetite for the main course.

Desserts:

Pumpkin Pie: Transform your leftover turkey pot pie meal into a delightful autumn treat with a Pumpkin Pie. The rich, spiced filling made from pureed pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves pairs perfectly with a buttery, flaky crust. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch. This classic dessert is sure to bring warmth and comfort to your table, making it an ideal way to end your meal.

Apple Crisp: For a comforting and easy-to-make dessert, consider an Apple Crisp. This dish features tender, cinnamon-spiced apples topped with a crunchy oat and brown sugar streusel. The contrast between the soft, juicy apples and the crisp, buttery topping creates a delightful texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate the experience. This dessert is perfect for using up any extra apples you might have on hand.

Why trust this Leftover Turkey Pot Pies Recipe:

This leftover turkey pot pie recipe is a trusted favorite because it transforms leftover turkey into a comforting, hearty meal. The combination of butter, sweet onion, carrots, and celery creates a flavorful base, while the stock and flour form a rich, smooth gravy. The addition of sweet peas and fresh thyme adds a touch of freshness. Topped with a golden pie crust, this dish is both satisfying and easy to make. Perfect for using up leftovers, it’s a recipe you can rely on for a delicious, homemade meal.

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FAQ:

Can I use chicken instead of turkey in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you have leftover chicken, it works just as well as turkey in this pot pie recipe.

Can I make this pot pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the pot pies ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Can I freeze the leftover pot pies?

Definitely! You can freeze the baked pot pies. Just let them cool completely, wrap them tightly, and freeze. Reheat them in a 350-degree F oven until warmed through.

What can I use if I don't have ramekins?

If you don't have ramekins, you can use a regular pie dish or even a muffin tin for mini pot pies. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.

How can I make the crust extra crispy?

For an extra crispy crust, make sure to brush the top with an egg wash before baking. You can also bake the pot pies on the lower rack of the oven to help the bottom crust get nice and crispy.