Introduction

Turkey pot pie is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender turkey with a rich and creamy filling, all encased in a flaky pie crust. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover turkey, making it an ideal meal for the day after a big holiday feast. The blend of vegetables and savory spices creates a delicious symphony of flavors that will satisfy any comfort food craving.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Turkey: 3 cups, cooked and shredded
Carrots: 1 cup, diced
Celery: 1 cup, diced
Onion: 1 medium, diced
Frozen peas: 1 cup
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Butter: 1/3 cup
All-purpose flour: 1/3 cup
Chicken broth: 2 cups
Milk: 1 cup
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
Dried rosemary: 1/2 teaspoon
Frozen pie crusts: 2 (9-inch)

Prep Time

The prep time for this turkey pot pie is approximately 20 minutes. During this time, you will prepare the vegetables, shred the turkey, and assemble the filling.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time for the turkey pot pie is about 30 to 35 minutes. Therefore, the total time required from start to finish is roughly 1 hour. This recipe yields 6 to 8 servings, making it a great option for family dinners or meal prep for the week. Enjoy this delicious turkey pot pie as a warm and satisfying meal!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, add diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens. Stir in the milk and bring to a gentle simmer.

Add the Turkey and Seasonings

Add the cooked turkey to the sauce, then sprinkle in the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the Pie Crust

If using refrigerated pie crusts, roll one out and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any overhanging edges. Pour the turkey filling into the crust.

Add the Top Crust

Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Bake the Pie

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the pie in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Cool and Serve

Allow the turkey pot pie to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade turkey pot pie!

Notes

Substitutions

You can substitute shredded leftover chicken for turkey if preferred. Additionally, other vegetables like peas or corn can be added to the filling.

Storage

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven until heated through.

Freezer Instructions

This pot pie can be frozen before baking. Assemble the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Cook techniques

Making the Filling

To create a flavorful filling for the turkey pot pie, sauté vegetables until tender and mix them with cooked turkey and a creamy sauce. The combination of herbs and spices will enhance the overall taste.

Preparing the Crust

A flaky crust can be achieved by using cold butter or shortening and handling the dough minimally to avoid overworking it. This ensures that the crust stays light and airy when baked.

Assembling the Pie

When assembling the turkey pot pie, it’s important to spread the filling evenly and cover it with the prepared crust. Sealing the edges ensures that the filling stays contained during baking.

Baking the Pie

Bake the turkey pot pie until the crust is golden brown and flaky. Utilizing a pie shield or aluminum foil can help prevent the edges from burning while the filling cooks through.

Letting it Rest

After baking, allow the turkey pot pie to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought crust for the turkey pot pie?

Yes, using a store-bought crust can save time and still result in delicious turkey pot pie.

How do I store leftover turkey pot pie?

Leftover turkey pot pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for longer storage.

Can I add other vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the filling by adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn to suit your taste.

Is it possible to make a vegetarian version?

Yes, substitute the turkey with a variety of vegetables, beans, or tofu and use vegetable broth to create a hearty vegetarian pot pie.

How long does it take to bake the pot pie?

Typically, the turkey pot pie takes about 25-35 minutes to bake, but it may vary based on your oven and the thickness of the crust.

Conclusion

Turkey pot pie is a delightful and comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. Its flaky crust paired with a savory filling makes it a perfect meal for gatherings or a cozy night in. Whether using leftover turkey or preparing it fresh, this recipe is simple yet delicious, providing a satisfying way to enjoy a classic comfort food.

More recipes suggestions and combination

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