Turkey Pot Pie: A Comforting Classic with a Flaky Twist

There’s something magical about a golden flaky crust cradling a rich savory filling—especially when it’s a Turkey Pot Pie. Whether you’re repurposing holiday leftovers or just craving a cozy meal this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Below I’ll walk you through the secrets to making the perfect pot pie with pro tips I’ve picked up over years of trial and error.
Why Turkey Pot Pie Deserves a Spot on Your Table
Let’s be honest: leftover turkey can get boring. But transform it into a pot pie and suddenly it’s the star of a whole new meal. Here’s why this dish shines:
- Economical – Uses up leftover turkey and veggies.
- Versatile – Swap ingredients based on what’s in your fridge.
- Comfort in Every Bite – Warm creamy filling + buttery crust = pure nostalgia.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have turkey rotisserie chicken works just as well!
The Key Components of an Unforgettable Pot Pie
1. The Filling: Flavor Bombs Await
The best pot pie fillings are rich creamy and packed with texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cooked turkey (diced or shredded)
- Aromatics – Onions garlic and celery for depth.
- Veggies – Carrots peas and potatoes are classics but mushrooms or green beans add great twists.
- Sauce – A velvety mix of butter flour broth and cream (or milk for a lighter version).
*Pro Tip: Sauté your veggies *just* until tender—they’ll soften more while baking.*
2. The Crust: Buttery Flaky Perfection
You have options here:
- Homemade pastry – A mix of flour butter and ice water for maximum flakiness.
- Store-bought crust – A time-saver that still delivers.
- Biscuit topping – For a rustic cobblestone-style pie.
Pro Tip: Brush the crust with an egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water) before baking for that gorgeous golden shine.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Turkey Pot Pie
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked turkey diced
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots diced
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1 3/4 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 2/3 cup milk or cream
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 pie crust (top & bottom or just top)
Instructions
- Sauté the Veggies – In a large pan melt butter and cook onions carrots and garlic until softened.
- Make the Sauce – Stir in flour to form a roux then slowly whisk in broth and milk until thickened.
- Combine Everything – Add turkey peas and seasonings. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Assemble & Bake – Pour filling into a pie dish cover with crust vent the top and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes until golden.
Pro Tip: Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing—this keeps the filling from oozing out everywhere!
Final Thoughts: Make It Your Own
The beauty of pot pie? It’s forgiving. Don’t like peas? Skip ‘em. Want extra herbs? Toss in rosemary or sage. Craving extra crunch? Sprinkle grated Parmesan on the crust before baking.
At the end of a long day few things beat cutting into a steaming slice of Turkey Pot Pie—each bite a reminder that the best meals are often the simplest.
Now who’s ready for seconds? 🥧