Turkey Pot Pie – A Simple Way to Use Leftovers
Turkey Pot Pie is a great way to use leftover turkey. It has a creamy filling with vegetables and a flaky puff pastry crust. Pot pies are a classic comfort food dating back to ancient times, originally cooked in a deep dish with a rich, savory filling. Today, this Turkey Pot Pie simplifies the traditional version into a quick and easy single-serving meal.
This recipe appears in our cookbook “Cooking for One – Not an Army” along with other delicious recipes. It’s made for one, but you can easily double (or triple) this recipe for company or leftovers! If you didn’t get a copy yet, our book is on Amazon right here!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation – Simple steps with minimal effort.
- Uses Leftovers – A great way to reduce food waste.
- Perfect for One Person – No need to make a huge batch.
- Customizable – Adjust the filling with different ingredients.
- Comforting and Filling – A warm, satisfying meal.
Ingredients for Turkey Pot Pie
This recipe uses simple ingredients commonly found in most kitchens. Turkey Pot Pie is the perfect recipe to make after Thanksgiving!
Filling
- Leftover turkey – Adds protein and flavor.
- Butter – Used for sautéing.
- Salt & pepper – Basic seasoning.
- Onions & garlic – Add depth to the flavor.
- Dried sage – A warm, earthy spice.
- Flour – Thickens the sauce.
- Turkey broth – Keeps the filling moist and rich.
- Peas & carrots (or other mixed vegetables) – Add color and texture.
Topping
- Puff pastry – Creates a flaky, crisp crust.
- Egg wash (optional) – Gives a golden finish.
How to Make Turkey Pot Pie
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small skillet, melt ½ tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the turkey and warm it through. Add the rest of the butter, onions, garlic, and dried sage. Sauté for 3 minutes.
Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw taste. Slowly pour in the turkey broth while scraping the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 3 minutes. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 5 more minutes.
Ladle the filling into a 10-ounce ramekin or a 6-inch skillet. Top with puff pastry, brushing it with egg wash if desired. Cut two small slits for steam to escape. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Tips & Tricks
- Thicker Filling – Use more flour or reduce broth.
- Vegetable Swaps – Try corn, green beans, or mushrooms.
- Use Chicken Instead – Works with rotisserie or leftover chicken.
- Crispier Crust – Bake the puff pastry separately and place it on top before serving.
- Dairy-Free Option – Replace butter with olive oil and use dairy-free puff pastry.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free flour and a gluten-free pastry alternative.
Variations of Turkey Pot Pie
This recipe is versatile, and you can easily switch things up to create different flavors:
- Spicy Turkey Pot Pie – Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
- Herb-Infused Pot Pie – Increase the amount of thyme, rosemary, or sage for a more herbaceous flavor.
- Cheesy Turkey Pot Pie – Stir in shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyère into the filling.
- Sweet & Savory Pot Pie – Add a touch of honey or maple syrup for a subtle sweetness.
What to Serve with Turkey Pot Pie
This pot pie pairs well with:
- Mashed Potatoes – A creamy, rich side.
- Green Beans – A fresh, simple addition.
- Cranberry Sauce – A sweet and tangy balance to the savory dish.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – For a crunchy, slightly caramelized side.
Leftovers & Storage
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Freeze in an oven-safe dish for up to 3 months.
- Reheating – Warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it softens the crust.
Equipment You’ll Need
To make this recipe, you’ll need:
- Small skillet – For cooking the filling.
- Mixing bowl – For preparation.
- Oven-safe ramekin or skillet – For baking.
- Pastry brush – For egg wash (optional).
Other Recipes to Try
Love this recipe? Here are more delicious dishes from Sisters Know Best:
- Full-Size Turkey Pot Pie – A creamy version that serves more than one.
- Turkey Enchilada Verde – A single-serving Mexican-inspired dish also from our cookbook.
- Zucchini Turkey Burgers – A different way to use turkey for moist and healthy burgers.
If you want to learn about the health benefits of turkey, check out this article.
This Turkey Pot Pie is a simple meal for one. It’s a good way to use leftovers while enjoying a warm, homemade dish.
