Leftover Turkey Recipes Easy: 1 Pot Pie You’ll Love!

Name: Leftover Turkey Recipes Easy: 1 Pot Pie You'll Love!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; 1/2 cup onion, diced; 1/2 cup celery, diced; 1/2 cup carrots, diced; 1/3 cup butter; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1 3/4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup milk; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

June 27, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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If you’re anything like me, you love a good challenge in the kitchen, especially when it comes to transforming leftovers into something magical! This savory turkey pot pie is my absolute favorite way to use up leftover turkey, and trust me, it’s ridiculously easy and oh-so-delicious! Picture this: a golden, flaky crust enveloping a creamy filling packed with tender turkey and vibrant veggies. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Plus, it comes together in just over an hour, making it a go-to weeknight dinner. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and turn that leftover turkey into a cozy meal the whole family will love!

leftover turkey recipes easy - detail 1

Ingredients List

2 cups cooked turkey, shredded – Use your leftover turkey, and don’t be shy about adding those tasty bits!
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables – A colorful mix adds nutrition and flavor; you can choose peas, corn, and carrots.
1/2 cup onion, diced – Adds depth and sweetness; make sure to chop them finely for even cooking.
1/2 cup celery, diced – This brings a lovely crunch and aromatic flavor; slice them uniformly.
1/2 cup carrots, diced – Sweet and vibrant, ensure they’re cut small so they cook through.
1/3 cup butter – This will create a rich base for your filling; unsalted is best to control seasoning.
1/3 cup all-purpose flour – For thickening the sauce; measure precisely for the right consistency.
1 3/4 cups chicken broth – Use low-sodium broth for a balanced flavor; homemade is even better if you have it!
1 cup milk – Whole milk works wonders for creaminess; you could also use a lighter option if preferred.
1 teaspoon thyme – A classic herb that adds warmth; feel free to use fresh thyme if you have it!
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for enhancing all the flavors; start light and adjust as you go.
1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade) – Choose your favorite; a flaky crust is key to a perfect pot pie!

How to Prepare Leftover Turkey Recipes Easy

Prepping the Ingredients

First things first, let’s get our ingredients ready! Start by shredding those leftover turkey pieces into bite-sized chunks. It’s all about making every mouthful delicious! Now, grab your veggies. Dice the onion, celery, and carrots into small, uniform pieces. This helps them cook evenly and ensures you get a nice mix in every bite. Don’t rush this step; it’s crucial for the texture of your filling. The frozen mixed vegetables can go straight from the freezer into the pot—no need to thaw them. They add a pop of color and nutrition!

Cooking the Filling

Now, heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Once it’s bubbly, toss in the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, until the veggies are softened and fragrant. It’s such a comforting aroma, I swear! Next, sprinkle in the flour and stir for about a minute. This is where the magic happens! The flour will coat the vegetables and start to thicken our sauce. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk—this is crucial! You want to bring it to a gentle simmer while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Keep cooking until it thickens; it should coat the back of a spoon nicely. Now, fold in the shredded turkey, mixed vegetables, thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Give it a good stir and let those flavors mingle!

Assembling the Pot Pie

Once your filling is ready, it’s time to assemble! Pour that delicious turkey mixture into your pie crust, spreading it out evenly. If you’re feeling fancy, you can make your own crust, but a store-bought one works just as well! Now, cover it with the top crust and seal the edges by crimping them with your fingers or a fork. Don’t forget to cut a few slits in the top—this allows steam to escape and prevents a soggy crust. Plus, it gives it that classic pot pie look!

Baking Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place your assembled pot pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips—trust me, it can get messy! Bake for 30-35 minutes until the crust is golden brown and beautiful. Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes; you want that perfect golden crust! To check for doneness, look for bubbling around the edges and a lovely golden hue on top. Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This little wait helps the filling set up nicely!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick preparation: This pot pie comes together in just about an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Use of leftover turkey: Transform your leftover turkey into a brand-new, mouthwatering dish—no waste here!
Comfort food appeal: There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty pot pie on a chilly evening; it’s pure cozy goodness!
Versatile with ingredient swaps: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out the herbs for a customized flavor that suits your taste!

Tips for Success

To elevate your turkey pot pie to the next level, here are some of my tried-and-true tips! First, consider using a homemade pie crust if you have the time—nothing beats the flavor and texture of a fresh crust. It adds a buttery richness that store-bought just can’t match. When making the filling, experiment with different herbs! Rosemary or sage can bring a lovely earthiness, while fresh parsley adds a bright note. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can give your pot pie a subtle kick.

Don’t shy away from adding a splash of heavy cream along with the milk for an ultra-creamy filling. For a fun twist, try incorporating leftover stuffing or mashed potatoes into the filling for added texture and flavor. Lastly, let your pot pie rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps the filling set and makes serving a breeze. Trust me, these little adjustments can make a world of difference in your pot pie game!

Variations

If you’re looking to mix things up with your turkey pot pie, you’re in for a treat! There are so many fun variations you can try that will keep this dish exciting every time. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Different Vegetables: While the classic mix works wonders, feel free to experiment! You can add diced bell peppers for sweetness, mushrooms for umami, or even green beans for a nice crunch. Just remember to cut them small so they cook through evenly!
Broth Swaps: Instead of chicken broth, try using vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or even turkey broth if you have it on hand. Homemade broth adds a depth that store-bought just can’t match!
Herb Variations: Switch up the thyme for fresh rosemary or parsley for a different flavor profile. You could also try a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or even some curry powder for an exotic twist!
Cheesy Addition: For a creamy, cheesy filling, mix in some grated cheese like cheddar or mozzarella just before pouring the filling into the pie crust. It melts beautifully and adds a decadent touch.
Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a touch of cayenne pepper to the filling. It’ll give your pot pie a delightful kick that’s sure to impress!
Crust Options: Try using a puff pastry for a lighter, flakier topping or even a biscuit crust for a heartier texture. You can also make a double crust if you’re feeling indulgent!

These variations not only allow you to customize your pot pie to suit your taste buds but also ensure that you can make the most of whatever leftovers you have on hand. Get creative and have fun with it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover turkey pot pie is super simple, and it ensures you can enjoy that deliciousness again later! Once your pot pie has cooled to room temperature—give it about 10-15 minutes to avoid condensation—transfer it to an airtight container. If you want to keep things tidy, you might consider slicing it before storing; this way, it’s easy to grab a piece whenever you’re hungry. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

If you find yourself with more pot pie than you can eat in that time, don’t worry! You can freeze it for longer storage. Just wrap the pot pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to label it with the date so you can keep track!

When you’re ready to enjoy your pot pie again, the reheating process is key to preserving its delightful texture and flavor. If you’ve stored it in the fridge, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pot pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the filling is bubbling. If you’re reheating a frozen pot pie, it’s best to let it thaw overnight in the fridge first, then follow the same reheating instructions. Alternatively, you can bake it from frozen, just allow for an additional 15-20 minutes in the oven.

For the best results, avoid using the microwave if you can. It can make the crust soggy, and we all want that beautiful flaky texture to shine through! By following these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor every last bite of your turkey pot pie, just as delicious as the first time around!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

It’s important to note that the nutritional information provided for this turkey pot pie is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used, brands, and preparation methods. Factors such as the type of pie crust, the fat content of the milk, and the specific vegetables you choose can all influence the final nutritional values. For the most accurate information, I recommend calculating the nutrition based on the exact ingredients you use. Enjoy your pot pie without worry, knowing that you can customize it to fit your dietary needs and preferences!

What’s Next?

Now that you’ve got this fantastic leftover turkey pot pie recipe in your hands, it’s time to get cooking! I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the warm, comforting flavors that come together in this dish. Trust me, it’s a meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles and satisfied stomachs.

Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear all about your experience! Did you add your own twist? How did your family enjoy it? Leave a comment below to share your thoughts or any variations you tried—I’m always looking for new ideas! And if you’re feeling generous, a rating would mean the world to me. Your feedback helps others discover this cozy recipe and inspires me to keep sharing more culinary adventures.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather those ingredients, and let’s make some delicious memories together! Happy cooking!

For more tips on using leftovers creatively, check out this Food Network article for inspiration!

If you’re interested in more delicious recipes, you can also explore easy leftover turkey recipes for more ideas!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.