Turkey pot pie is a comforting dish that combines tender turkey with a creamy filling, all encased in a flaky, golden crust. It’s perfect for using up leftover turkey after a big holiday meal. This recipe brings warmth and satisfaction, making it a favorite for family dinners.
Making turkey pot pie from scratch might seem daunting, but the process is quite rewarding. With fresh ingredients and a homemade crust, you will create a dish that rivals any store-bought version, while also enjoying the delicious aroma that fills the kitchen during baking.
Why Make This Recipe
Turkey pot pie is not only delicious but also practical. It’s an excellent way to repurpose leftover turkey, minimizing waste and maximizing flavor. The savory filling is rich and creamy, with tender vegetables enhancing the taste. Plus, you get the satisfaction of creating a dish from scratch.
Casual gatherings are perfect occasions to serve this comforting meal. When friends or family drop by, or when you want a cozy dinner, turkey pot pie will surely impress. It feels like a warm hug on a plate, connecting everyone around the table with its delightful taste.
Equipment Needed for Turkey Pot Pie
To make turkey pot pie, gather the following essential equipment:
- Large food processor
- Large, deep-sided skillet
- Rolling pin
- 9-inch pie dish or deep skillet
- Plastic wrap
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Paring knife
- Mixing spoon
- Whisk
Having these tools handy will make your preparation and cooking process much smoother, allowing you to focus on creating the perfect pot pie.
What You Need to Make Turkey Pot Pie
- 1.5 cups butter (3 sticks), cut into small pieces
- 3.75 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1.5 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, chilled
- 6 tablespoons ice water, plus more if needed
- 3 tablespoons butter, plus more for greasing baking dish
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and medium diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 0.75 cup white wine
- 1 and 1/3 cups heavy cream, plus 2 tablespoons for brushing
- 2.5 cups shredded turkey meat
- 1.5 cups frozen peas
- 3 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
- 3 sprigs thyme, stems removed
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Flaky salt
Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to indulge in a warm, hearty meal.
How to Cook Turkey Pot Pie Step by Step
To get started on your turkey pot pie, first, place the butter into the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up. This will help achieve a flakier crust. In a large food processor, combine the flour, salt, and sugar by pulsing them until they are well mixed.
Add the chilled butter into the processor and pulse until the mixture resembles pea-size pieces with some larger chunks. With the food processor running, introduce the apple cider vinegar along with the ice water, 4 tablespoons at a time. The aim is for the dough to come together but remain moist, not sticky.
If the dough is too crumbly and struggles to form, add additional ice water, one teaspoon at a time, until it binds together properly. Once your dough is ready, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and gather it into a cohesive ball. Knead it a few times, then divide it into two equal pieces, flattening each into a disk. Wrap these disks in plastic wrap and refrigerate them for at least an hour.
Once your dough has chilled, preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. On a medium flame in a large, deep-sided skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. As it melts, add the diced onions and carrots, sautéing them for about 7 to 8 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook until it is fragrant, then sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, stirring it in until golden and bubbly. Gradually whisk in the white wine, letting the mixture reach a simmer.
Allow the wine mixture to simmer for about 3 minutes, which will cook out the alcohol. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture boils and starts to thicken, taking about 5 minutes. Once the sauce is thickened, fold in the shredded turkey, frozen peas, chopped parsley, and thyme, seasoning everything with salt and pepper to taste. Set the filling aside to cool slightly.
Next, flour a clean surface and roll out one of the chilled dough disks until it’s a large round about 1/4 inch thick. Carefully transfer it into a greased 9-inch pie dish or a deep skillet, letting it hang over the edges. Fill it with the cooled turkey mixture, and then roll out the second dough disk in the same manner. Place it over the filling, trimming any excess edges.
Crimp the edges of the pie together, ensuring a good seal. Use a paring knife to cut slits in the top of the crust, allowing steam to escape during baking. Brush the pie crust with the remaining heavy cream and sprinkle it with flaky salt for added flavor.
Bake your turkey pot pie in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The crust should turn a lovely golden brown, and the filling should bubble up. Watch carefully; if the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil. Once done, let the pie cool for 15 minutes before serving.
How to Make Turkey Pot Pie
Making turkey pot pie involves some straightforward steps focusing on creating that rich filling and delicious crust. The key is in using quality ingredients and treating the dough with care to ensure a perfect bake.
Start with chilled butter for the crust, and remember to keep your dough cool throughout the process for the best texture. The filling brings a burst of flavor with tender vegetables and turkey, making every bite satisfying.
After preparing your filling, allow it to cool slightly before assembling your pie. This prevents a soggy bottom crust. When adding the top layer of dough, make sure to seal the edges well to keep all that savory goodness inside.
How to Serve Turkey Pot Pie
When it’s time to serve the turkey pot pie, let it sit a moment after baking. This helps the filling settle and makes for easier slicing. Use a sharp knife to cut the pie into generous wedges.
A simple side salad can complement the rich flavors of the pie. A refreshing green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the meal. Consider presenting the pot pie directly from the baking dish for a rustic, homey feel.
What to Serve with Turkey Pot Pie
Turkey pot pie pairs wonderfully with various sides. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables can add color and nutrition to your meal. For a heartier option, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery corn on the cob will round out the dish well.
Bread, such as baguettes or rolls, also makes a good accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any of the delicious filling that may escape from the pie.
How to Store Turkey Pot Pie
Storing turkey pot pie properly is essential to maintain its flavor and texture. If you have leftover pie, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days.
You can also freeze unbaked or baked pot pie. To do this, wrap the whole pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Enjoy it within three months for the best taste. When ready to eat, bake from frozen or heat leftovers in the oven until warmed through.
Tips to Make Turkey Pot Pie
To ensure your turkey pot pie turns out perfectly, consider a few helpful tips. Always use cold butter and chilled water for the crust to maintain flakiness. Avoid overworking the dough; you want it just combined for that perfect texture.
Don’t skip cooling your filling before adding it to the crust; a warm filling can steam the bottom crust, making it soggy. Also, ensure even baking by placing the pie in the center of the oven.
Variation
If you’d like, you can switch up the filling of your turkey pot pie. For a different flavor, try adding mushrooms, sweet potatoes, or even a splash of cream sherry for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
You can also customize the herbs, using rosemary or sage instead of thyme. If looking for a healthier twist, substitute the heavy cream with a lighter version or use dairy-free alternatives.
Best Time to Make Turkey Pot Pie
While turkey pot pie is wonderful year-round, it shines particularly well during the colder months. It’s perfect for fall and winter, capturing the essence of comfort food.
Post-holiday gatherings are the ideal time to make turkey pot pie, utilizing leftover turkey. However, any time you have cooked turkey on hand is an opportunity to create this delicious meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is working with warm ingredients. Always use chilled butter and keep your dough cool to achieve that desired flaky crust.
Another issue is neglecting proper seasoning; don’t forget to season the filling well. Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper to elevate the flavors. Finally, ensure your filling has cooled before adding it to the crust to avoid a soggy base.
Nutritional Notes
Turkey pot pie can be a hearty meal that provides a well-rounded profile of nutrients. Turkey offers a good source of protein, while the vegetables pack in vitamins and minerals.
However, it does contain butter and cream, which are higher in calories and fats. If you’re looking for a lighter version, opt for less cream or substitute some of the butter in the crust with a healthier fat, like olive oil.
FAQs
Can I make turkey pot pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and dough a day in advance. Assemble the pot pie right before baking for the freshest result.
Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, pre-made crusts can save you a step. They can still yield a delicious result.
What can I use if I don’t have turkey?
Chicken works great as a replacement, or even vegetables for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.
Conclusion
Turkey pot pie is a versatile dish that brings a sense of home and comfort. With a rich filling and a flaky crust, it’s a meal that warms the heart. Its adaptability makes it suitable for various occasions, from cozy family dinners to enjoyable gatherings with friends.
By undertaking the steps to prepare this delicious pie, you’ll not only impress your guests but also create lasting memories around the dinner table. Whether using leftover turkey from a holiday feast or making it as a stand-alone dish, turkey pot pie can always make a delightful meal.
