The Best Leftover Turkey Pie – A Must-Try Holiday Recipe!
The holidays may be over, but the feast doesn’t have to end. This comforting Leftover Turkey Pie transforms your festive leftovers into a rich, creamy, and savory dish, wrapped in golden puff pastry. It’s the ultimate way to savor every last bite of your holiday meal.
Packed with tender roast turkey, smoky bacon, and a velvety Dijon-infused sauce, this pie is bursting with flavor. A hint of tarragon and a touch of cranberries add a festive twist, making it the perfect dish to enjoy in front of a cozy Christmas movie.
With minimal effort and simple ingredients, this recipe turns leftovers into a showstopping meal. Whether served with a fresh salad or buttery greens, this hearty pie is guaranteed to bring warmth and comfort to your post-holiday table.
Leftover Turkey Pie Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavor
Roast Turkey – Tender, shredded turkey brings rich, roasted depth, making the most of holiday leftovers in every bite.
Puff Pastry – Buttery, flaky layers encase the filling, baking to golden perfection for an irresistible crunch.
Bacon or Ham – Smoky, savory bites add depth and a touch of indulgence to the creamy sauce.
Dijon Mustard – A hint of tangy warmth balances the richness, elevating every layer of flavor.
Chicken Stock & Cream – A luscious duo that forms the velvety base, bringing everything together in silky harmony.
Cranberries – A subtle touch of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory, creamy filling.
Parmesan – A final flourish of umami-rich cheese, melting into the sauce and crisping on top for extra flavor.
Leftover Turkey Pie: Tips, Serving Ideas & FAQ
This Leftover Turkey Pie is a delicious way to transform holiday leftovers into a rich, comforting meal. Flaky puff pastry encases a creamy, flavorful filling with roasted turkey, smoky ham or bacon, and a hint of festive cranberries. Whether it’s a post-Christmas tradition or an everyday indulgence, this pie is sure to satisfy.
Recipe Tips
1. Make-Ahead for Convenience
If you’re short on time, prepare the filling a day in advance. Simply cook the filling, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to bake, transfer the filling to a pie dish, top with puff pastry, and bake as directed. This not only enhances the flavors but also makes dinner effortless.
2. Get Creative with Leftovers
This pie is incredibly versatile. Swap out turkey for chicken, use leftover roast vegetables instead of carrots and celery, or add a splash of white wine for extra depth in the sauce. If you have mashed potatoes on hand, try a mashed potato topping instead of puff pastry for a twist on shepherd’s pie.
3. Achieve the Perfect Crispy Crust
For a beautifully golden, flaky crust, always brush the pastry with an egg wash before baking. To prevent a soggy bottom, bake the pie on a preheated baking sheet, which helps distribute heat evenly. You can also prick the pastry with a fork to allow steam to escape, keeping it crisp and airy.
What to Serve with Leftover Turkey Pie
1. Fresh Green Salad
A crisp, refreshing salad balances the richness of the pie. Try a mix of arugula, baby spinach, and cherry tomatoes, dressed with a light vinaigrette. The fresh flavors cut through the creamy filling, creating a perfect contrast.
2. Steamed Vegetables
For a simple yet satisfying side, serve with steamed greens like Brussels sprouts, green beans, or asparagus. Lightly seasoned with butter and a sprinkle of sea salt, these veggies add a nutritious and vibrant touch to your meal.
3. Rustic Garlic Mashed Potatoes
If you’re looking for an extra cozy pairing, creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic make an indulgent side. Their buttery texture complements the pie’s flaky crust and rich filling, making every bite extra satisfying.
FAQ
1. Can I freeze Leftover Turkey Pie?
Yes! Assemble the pie and freeze it unbaked for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-50 minutes until golden and heated through.
2. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works well and adds a slightly smoky flavor. Simply shred the chicken and use it in place of turkey for an easy alternative.
3. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to maintain crispness, or microwave for a quick meal.
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free puff pastry and replace the flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch or xanthan gum. Ensure all other ingredients, like chicken stock, are gluten-free.
This Leftover Turkey Pie is a heartwarming way to give your holiday leftovers a second life. With its golden crust and creamy, savory filling, it’s the perfect dish to enjoy on a cozy winter evening. Serve with your favorite sides and savor every bite!
Leftover Turkey Pie
Ingredients
- For the filling
- 1 tbsp butter – Adds depth and richness to the base.
- 1 yellow onion finely diced – Provides a mild sweetness and aromatic foundation.
- 2 celery ribs finely diced – Contributes a subtle crunch and flavor balance.
- 2 carrots peeled and diced – Infuses natural sweetness and color.
- 100 g scant ½ cup chopped bacon or leftover ham – Enhances the dish with smoky and savory notes.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – Lends a tangy depth to the filling.
- 1 tsp garlic paste – Introduces a fragrant savory element.
- 1 tsp salt – Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
- ½ tsp ground black pepper – Adds gentle heat and complexity.
- 1 tsp dried tarragon or mixed Italian herbs – Provides an aromatic herbaceous touch.
- 2 tsp flour or 1 tsp xanthan gum – Aids in thickening the sauce.
- 240 ml 1 cup hot chicken stock or leftover gravy – Forms the flavorful base of the sauce.
- 240 ml 1 cup cream – Enriches the filling with a velvety texture.
- 3 tbsp dried cranberries chopped – Offers a hint of sweetness and contrast.
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan – Enhances umami and depth of flavor.
- 450 g 1 pound shredded roast turkey or chicken – The star ingredient, providing texture and substance.
- For the topping
- 2 packs ready-rolled puff pastry – Creates a crisp flaky crust.
- 1 egg lightly beaten – Ensures a golden, glossy pastry finish.
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan – Adds a touch of savory sharpness.
- Pinch of grated nutmeg – Introduces a warm subtle spice.
Instructions
- Make the pie filling
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat until sizzling. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots, sautéing gently until softened.
- Stir in the chopped bacon or ham, Dijon mustard, and garlic paste, allowing the flavors to meld for a couple of minutes.
- Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and dried herbs, followed by the flour or xanthan gum. Stir well to coat the ingredients evenly.
- Pour in the hot chicken stock (or leftover gravy) along with the cream, stirring continuously as the sauce thickens.
- Fold in the chopped dried cranberries, grated Parmesan, and shredded turkey, ensuring everything is well coated in the rich sauce.
- Add the topping and bake
- Transfer the mixture into a ceramic or pie dish, spreading it evenly.
- Cut the puff pastry into decorative shapes, such as stars, and layer them over the filling, slightly overlapping. Alternatively, use a whole sheet of puff pastry, ensuring to score the top to allow steam to escape. Brush with beaten egg.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth of flavor.
- Place the dish on a baking tray to catch any spills, then bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving with a crisp salad or steamed greens.
