Thanksgiving Turkey Pot Pie

Elevate Your Thanksgiving Leftovers with a Feast-Worthy Thanksgiving Turkey Pot Pie Extravaganza!

As the aroma of Thanksgiving lingers in the air, transform your leftover turkey into a culinary masterpiece with our Thanksgiving Turkey Pot Pie recipe. This comforting dish combines the richness of holiday flavors with the warmth of a pot pie, creating a post-Thanksgiving feast that’s equally delightful. Join us as we guide you through the art of crafting a pot pie that stands as a delicious tribute to the Thanksgiving table.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

  1. Leftover Turkey – 3 cups, shredded: Utilize those succulent turkey leftovers for a flavorful filling.
  2. Butter – 1/4 cup: Adds richness and enhances the overall flavor.
  3. Yellow Onion – 1, finely chopped: Provides a sweet and savory base for the filling.
  4. Carrots – 1 cup, diced: Adds a pop of color and natural sweetness.
  5. Celery – 1 cup, diced: Brings a refreshing crunch to the filling.
  6. Frozen Peas – 1 cup: Introduces a burst of sweetness and vibrant color.
  7. All-Purpose Flour – 1/3 cup: Acts as a thickening agent for the filling.
  8. Chicken or Turkey Broth – 2 cups: Creates a savory, comforting base for the filling.
  9. Whole Milk – 1 cup: Adds creaminess and richness to the filling.
  10. Fresh Thyme – 1 tablespoon, chopped: Infuses a hint of herbal freshness.
  11. Salt and Pepper – To taste: Season generously for a well-balanced filling.

For the Pie Crust:

  1. Store-Bought Pie Crust – 2 sheets: Convenience without compromising on flakiness.

For the Egg Wash:

  1. Egg – 1, beaten: Gives the pie crust a golden, glossy finish.

Instructions:

Preparing the Filling:

  1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. Add Turkey: Stir in shredded turkey and frozen peas, allowing the peas to thaw in the mixture.
  3. Create Roux: Sprinkle flour over the turkey and vegetable mixture, stirring constantly to create a roux.
  4. Pour in Broth and Milk: Gradually pour in chicken or turkey broth and whole milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
  5. Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken. Add fresh thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.

Preparing the Pie Crust:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Line Pie Dish: Line a pie dish with one sheet of pie crust, allowing excess to hang over the edges.
  3. Fill with Turkey Mixture: Pour the thickened turkey and vegetable filling into the pie crust.
  4. Cover with Second Crust: Place the second sheet of pie crust over the filling. Trim the excess crust and seal the edges. Create decorative slits on top for venting.

Baking the Pot Pie:

  1. Egg Wash: Brush the top crust with beaten egg for a golden finish.
  2. Bake Until Golden: Place the pot pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
  3. Rest Before Serving: Allow the pot pie to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to let the filling set.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Herb Infusion: Experiment with a blend of fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley for added depth of flavor.
  • Sweet Potato Crust: For a twist, consider using thinly sliced sweet potatoes as a crust alternative.
  • Mushroom Medley: Add sautéed mushrooms to the filling for an earthy dimension.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

  • Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour for the thickening agent.
  • Use heavy cream or a keto-friendly milk substitute.
  • Create a low-carb crust using almond flour, cream cheese, and egg.

Low-Carb Version:

  • Opt for a low-carb thickening agent such as arrowroot powder.
  • Choose a low-carb milk alternative like almond milk or coconut milk.
  • Explore low-carb pie crust options available in stores or make your own using almond flour.

With this Thanksgiving Turkey Pot Pie, the spirit of Thanksgiving extends beyond the holiday feast. It’s a delicious ode to resourcefulness, turning leftovers into a culinary triumph. Share this comforting pot pie with loved ones, savoring the warmth of the season in every bite. Here’s to extending the joy of Thanksgiving and transforming leftovers into a meal that feels as special as the holiday itself!