Turn leftover turkey into an entirely new meal with this turkey pot pie recipe. The dish consists of a creamy herbed gravy with cooked turkey and vegetables topped with a buttery golden pie crust. Using what you have on hand, you can customize this basic recipe to your taste. To save time, you can use pre-cut, frozen, or leftover vegetables. Maximum comfort food for minimal effort!.
Every fall season, I try to find a few recipes to use up leftover cooked turkey or chicken. (You know, once we get tired of turkey sandwiches!) Pot pie is usually the first dish that springs to mind because it’s a reliable, satisfying choice.
The aroma of a freshly baked turkey pot pie wafting through your kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This classic comfort food is the perfect way to use up leftover turkey, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. But one question often arises: how long should you bake a turkey pot pie at 350°F to achieve that perfect golden crust and bubbly filling?
Fear not, fellow pie enthusiasts! We’ve scoured the internet and consulted culinary experts to bring you the definitive answer to this burning question. So, grab your rolling pin, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a masterpiece.
The Perfect Baking Time: Unveiling the Secrets
For a turkey pot pie, bake it for 40 to 45 minutes at 350°F. However, this can vary slightly depending on several factors, including:
- Pie crust thickness: A thicker crust will require a longer baking time.
- Filling consistency: A thicker filling will take longer to heat through.
- Oven temperature accuracy: Ensure your oven is calibrated correctly for consistent results.
Visual Cues for Baking Perfection
The timer is your guide, but visual cues are where the real measure of doneness is found. Here’s what to look for:
- Golden brown crust: The crust should be a beautiful golden brown, indicating that it’s cooked through and flaky.
- Bubbling filling: The filling should be bubbling around the edges, signifying that it’s heated through and ready to be enjoyed.
- No raw dough: Check the bottom crust for any signs of raw dough. If it’s still pale, bake for a few minutes longer.
Baking Tips for a Flawless Pie
To ensure your turkey pot pie emerges from the oven a golden masterpiece, follow these tips:
- Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F before placing the pie inside. This ensures even baking and prevents a soggy bottom crust.
- Use a pie shield: If you notice the edges of the crust browning too quickly, cover them with a pie shield or aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Check for doneness: Start checking the pie after 40 minutes, and continue baking until it meets the visual cues mentioned above.
- Let it rest: Allow the pie to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set and prevents a runny mess.
Additional Resources for Baking Bliss
For more detailed instructions and variations, check out these fantastic resources:
- Allrecipes’ Fast and Easy Turkey Pot Pie: This recipe provides a simple and straightforward approach to making a delicious turkey pot pie.
- Food.com’s Turkey Pot Pie Recipe: This recipe offers a more traditional approach with a homemade crust and a flavorful filling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
- A: Absolutely! Using a store-bought pie crust is a great time-saving option. Just be sure to follow the baking instructions on the package.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
- A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn. Just make sure they are cooked before adding them to the filling.
Q: Can I freeze turkey pot pie?
- A: Yes, you can freeze turkey pot pie before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the pie and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
Now that you know the secrets to baking a perfect turkey pot pie, it’s time to get in the kitchen and create your own culinary masterpiece. Remember, a little patience and attention to detail will yield a golden-crusted, bubbly-filled pie that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake!
Use Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey
Use cooked turkey, which is especially convenient after a Thanksgiving meal. When those who ate the larger slices of leftover Thanksgiving sandwich have had their fill, use three cups of chopped or shredded turkey for the filling. You can use light or dark meat, or a combination of both.
(By the way, if the idea of going back to the kitchen to make another dinner after a holiday meal isn’t your thing, let me assure you that this all-in-one meal is simple to prepare. ).
Can I use cooked chicken instead? Yes, feel free to substitute.
These Step-by-Step Photos Will Help
After the base veggies and butter cook together, add flour, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. (Major flavor building is happening during these crucial steps!) Below, left: The base of the pot pie filling. Below, right: After adding the flour & herbs.
After the flour soaks up the moisture from the cooked vegetables, add the broth and whole milk. Let everything simmer and thicken on the stove, until the sauce has a thick gravy-like consistency.
Then you’ll add the cooked turkey and your vegetable add-in. (Peas, in this case.)
Your filling is done! ↓ Let it cool for 10 minutes, and then pour it into a 9-inch pie dish:
