How to make a Turkey Pot Pie with thanksgiving leftovers

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Introduction

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and family and a bountiful feast. But what happens when the festivities end, and you’re left with a fridge full of leftovers? Instead of reheating the same meal for days, why not transform those leftovers into a beloved classic dish with a twist? Enter the turkey pot pie—a delicious and creative way to give new life to your Thanksgiving turkey.

Throughout history, people have found innovative ways to make the most of their leftovers. From bubble and squeak in England to bibimbap in Korea, repurposing leftovers has become a beloved tradition in many cultures. The turkey pot pie is no exception, combining the comforting flavors of Thanksgiving with the convenience of a one-dish meal.

Detailed Guide: How to Make Turkey Pot Pie with Thanksgiving Leftovers

Ingredients

• 2 cups leftover turkey, diced
• 1 cup leftover vegetables (such as carrots, peas, or green beans)
• 1 cup leftover gravy
• 1 cup chicken or turkey stock
• One onion, diced
• Two cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• One prepared pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic in some oil until softened.
3. Add the leftover turkey, vegetables, gravy, and stock to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Season the mixture with thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
5. Transfer the mixture to a prepared pie dish.
6. Cover the dish with the pie crust, trimming excess and crimping the edges to seal. Cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
8. Allow the pot pie to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tip: For a golden, glossy crust, brush the top with an egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with 1 tbsp water) before baking.

Storage and Reheating

To properly store your leftover turkey pot pie and ensure it maintains its flavor, it’s crucial to let it cool down to room temperature before attempting to store it. This prevents condensation under the covering, which can make the crust soggy. Once cooled, cover the pot pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring no air can get in and dry out the filling or crust. This method allows you to safely keep the pot pie in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, maintaining its taste and texture.

When you’re ready to enjoy your pot pie again, reheating it correctly is critical to restoring its freshly baked quality. First, remove any plastic wrap or aluminum foil covering. Place the pot pie in a preheated oven set at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and bubbly. Keep an eye on the crust; if it begins to brown more than you’d like, loosely cover the edges with foil to protect them while the rest of the pie heats up.

If you have more pot pie than you can consume in a few days, freezing is an excellent option for more extended storage. Freeze the pot pie for 2-3 months by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap to keep out air and moisture, then in aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy the pot pie, there’s no need to thaw it. Remove all the wrappings and bake them directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-60 minutes. This method ensures the pot pie heats through and the crust becomes perfectly golden brown, almost as if it were freshly made.

Variations and Customizations

The beauty of the turkey pot pie is its versatility. Here are a few ideas for customizing the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

• Vegetarian: Substitute the turkey with extra vegetables or plant-based proteins like chickpeas or lentils.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free pie crust or replace the crust with mashed potatoes for a turkey shepherd’s pie.
• Creamy filling: Add 1/2 cup of heavy or sour cream to the filling for a richer, creamier texture.
• Herb-infused crust: To add extra flavor, mix chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or sage into the pie crust dough.
• Cheesy topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese over the crust before baking for a cheesy twist.

Additional Recipe Ideas to Elevate Your Turkey Pot Pie

Sweet Potato Crust

• Introduction: Swap the traditional crust with a sweet potato mash for a healthier, gluten-free alternative.
• Preparation: Steam or boil sweet potatoes until tender, mash with butter or olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Spread over your filling for a lovely, crusty topping.

Spicy Kick

• Introduction: Add a bit of heat to your turkey pot pie with some spicy elements.
• Ingredients: Incorporate spicy sausage, jalapeños, or a dash of cayenne pepper into the filling for those who appreciate a little spice.

Seafood Twist

• Introduction: Consider replacing or supplementing the turkey with seafood for a coastal variation.
• Options: Shrimp, scallops, or lump crab meat can make an intriguing twist on the traditional pot pie.

Mini Pot Pies

• Introduction: Mini pot pies are perfect for a fun, individual serving option.
• Method: Use ramekins or muffin tins to create personal-sized pies that are great for portion control and can make serving guests a breeze.

Tips for the Perfect Pot Pie

Achieving a Crispy Bottom

• Strategies: Prevent a soggy bottom by pre-baking the crust, using a glass pie dish for even baking, and ensuring the filling is not too liquidy.

Making Pie Dough in Advance

• Advice: Pie dough can be made ahead and frozen, saving time. When ready to use, it should be thawed in the refrigerator overnight.

Freezer-Friendly Tips

• Guidance: For best results when freezing, consider adding more seasoning to compensate for any flavor lost in freezing.

Creative Leftovers

• Ideas: Beyond turkey, explore using other holiday leftovers in your pot pie, such as stuffing, cranberry sauce, or mashed potatoes, for a truly festive dish.

Serving and Presentation

Accompaniments

• Suggestions: For a balanced meal, pair your pot pie with a light salad, cranberry sauce, or steamed green beans.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like a Chardonnay or a light red such as Pinot Noir complements the rich flavors of the pot pie.

Garnishing Ideas

• Finishing Touches: Fresh herbs, edible flowers, or a light dusting of parmesan cheese can elevate the presentation and add flavor.

Engaging Your Community

Pot Pie Potluck

• Proposal: Host a pot pie potluck where guests bring their version of pot pies. It’s a great way to share recipes and enjoy a variety of flavors.

Sharing is Caring

• Encouragement: Share your successful turkey pot pie creations on social media to inspire friends and family to try their hand at this comforting dish.

These additional ideas and tips for making turkey pot pie can help transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a culinary adventure that stretches well beyond the holiday season.

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Conclusion

Transforming your Thanksgiving leftovers into a turkey pot pie is not just a delicious initiative to reduce food waste; it’s a golden opportunity to unleash your creativity in the kitchen. By repurposing your leftovers, you’re not merely saving them from being discarded; you’re giving them a new lease on life and exploring exciting new flavor combinations. Utilizing ingredients like the savory turkey, the rich gravy, and the array of vegetables, you can craft a comforting and innovative dish. Moreover, this approach encourages a sustainable cooking habit, making the most out of every ingredient and minimizing waste. So, the next time you find yourself with a fridge brimming with Thanksgiving leftovers, remember that the possibilities are endless. Embrace the joy of cooking with an open heart and let your culinary creativity run wild! This is not just about making a meal; it’s about celebrating the abundance and transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary.

References

Dad’s Leftover Turkey Pot Pie

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Turkey Pot Pie with Thanksgiving Leftovers