Turkey Pot Pie Recipe is one of my absolute favorite comfort foods. It brings back so many memories from my childhood. I remember the fragrance of savory herbs and spices wafting through my family kitchen as my mom prepared the dish. As I grew older, I loved making this hearty dish myself. It allows space for creativity, whether you’re using leftovers or fresh ingredients. Pie crust cradles a warm, rich filling that’s simply irresistible.
Turkey Pot Pie is not only delicious but also serves as a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey, especially after festive occasions. The creamy filling, combined with tender vegetables and a flaky crust, warms the heart. This dish checks all the boxes when I crave comfort food.
Ingredients for Turkey Pot Pie Recipe
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pie Crust:
You can choose store-bought or homemade pie crust. Both options work well, and you can tailor them to your liking.
How to Make Turkey Pot Pie Recipe
One of my favorite parts of making Turkey Pot Pie is preparing the filling. It’s comforting to watch the ingredients come together. First, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, celery, and sauté until they soften, about 5-7 minutes.
Next, sprinkle the flour over the mixture. This will help thicken your filling. Stir for about a minute, making sure everything is well blended. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and let it simmer. Once it thickens, add heavy cream, turkey, peas, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. The aroma makes my mouth water!
Choosing the Right Pie Crust
The crust is crucial in Turkey Pot Pie. A flaky and buttery crust complements the rich filling perfectly. You can prepare a homemade crust or opt for a store-bought one to save time.
For those who enjoy baking, here’s a simple homemade pie crust recipe. Combine 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour with 1/2 cup of cold butter. Mix until crumbly. Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until it forms a dough. Chill it for at least 30 minutes.
If using store-bought dough, make sure to follow the instructions on the package.
Assembling the Turkey Pot Pie
Once the filling is ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out your dough and lay one crust in a pie pan, leaving a bit of overhang. Fill it generously with the mixture, then cover with another crust. Don’t forget to cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Crimp the edges for a neat finish and create a golden crust. It always reminds me of my childhood when I would assist my mom with this part, making sure it looked just right.
Baking the Pie
Bake your Turkey Pot Pie for about 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. My favorite moment is when I take it out of the oven. The sight of bubbling filling and the smell in my kitchen is unbeatable. Allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to let the sauce thicken a bit.
Variations on Turkey Pot Pie Recipe
One of the reasons I adore Turkey Pot Pie is its versatility. There are plenty of variations to suit individual tastes and dietary restrictions:
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute turkey with mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
- Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or buffalo sauce to the filling for an extra kick.
- Herb-Infused: Try fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or rosemary for enhanced flavor.
- Different Meats: Chicken or even beef can be used instead of turkey, allowing for variety.
Sides to Serve with Turkey Pot Pie
Turkey Pot Pie is a meal on its own, but I love pairing it with some simple sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with light dressing adds a nice contrast.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create extra comfort alongside the pie.
- Steamed Veggies: Broccoli or green beans offer a healthy and colorful addition.
Storing Leftovers
Turkey Pot Pie makes great leftovers. If there are any slices left after your meal, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is easy—just pop the pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing. Slice the pie and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. You can enjoy your Turkey Pot Pie any time you want!
Nutritional Benefits of Turkey Pot Pie
Turkey Pot Pie is more than just comfort food. Here are some nutritional highlights:
- Turkey: A lean protein source low in calories.
- Vegetables: Carrots, peas, and celery provide vitamins and minerals.
- Whole Grains (if using whole wheat crust): Offers fiber to keep you full.
Turkey Pot Pie for Every Occasion
Turkey Pot Pie suits many occasions. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a cozy gathering, or post-holiday meal, it fits the bill. I always make a big batch around Thanksgiving. Not only does it use up leftover turkey, but it also fills my house with warmth and wonderful scents.
Turkey Pot Pie holds a special place in my heart. The combination of flavors and textures reminds me of family, love, and shared meals. It’s a fantastic dish to prepare with loved ones, creating new memories while enjoying an old favorite.