As the leaves start to turn and a crispness fills the air, I find myself yearning for the comforting embrace of a homemade dish. Last week, a particularly rainy evening had me rifling through my fridge, stumbling upon some leftover roast turkey. Inspired, I decided to create a dish that embodies warmth and nostalgia—Turkey Pot Pie.
There’s something incredibly satisfying about transforming simple ingredients into a feast that brings loved ones together. The rich aroma of buttery pastry mingled with hearty vegetables and tender turkey creates a symphony of flavors that dances in the kitchen. This recipe isn’t just easy to whip up; it’s a delightful way to turn leftovers into a cozy meal that feels fresh and new. Plus, it’s perfect for gatherings, leaving guests raving about a dish that won’t have you stressed in the kitchen. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Turkey and Dumplings a must-try?
Comforting, Hearty Dish: This Turkey Pot Pie delivers that homey feeling, making it a favorite for family and friends.
Easy to Make: With simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this hearty meal in no time!
Delicious Leftover Utilization: It’s a genius way to turn leftover turkey into a delectable treat, reducing waste and maximizing flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress your guests with a dish that looks as good as it tastes; rave reviews guaranteed!
Flavor Fusion: The combination of spices, fresh veggies, and savory sauce meld seamlessly to create a mouthwatering experience.
Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own!
Turkey and Dumplings Ingredients
• Get ready to savor this delightful dish filled with comforting flavors!
For the Filling
- Unsalted butter – Adds a rich, creamy base that enhances the overall flavor.
- All-purpose flour – Used to thicken the filling; opt for whole wheat for added nutrition.
- Chicken stock – Provides a hearty backdrop; homemade makes it even more comforting!
- Leftover gravy (optional) – Intensifies the turkey flavor; perfect for using up those holiday leftovers.
- Large onion – Brings sweetness and depth to the dish; don’t skip!
- Medium carrots – Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Medium ribs celery – Contributes crunch and aromatic flavor.
- Leftover roast turkey – The star ingredient; make sure to shred it into bite-size pieces for easy eating.
- Frozen peas – Offers a burst of freshness and color; no need to thaw before using.
- Fresh flat-leaf parsley – Brightens the dish with herbaceous notes; feel free to substitute with thyme or rosemary.
- Ground black pepper – A dash adds warmth and balances the flavors.
- Diamond Crystal kosher salt – Enhances the overall taste; adjust to liking.
For the Topping
- Baking powder – Gives the topping a light and fluffy texture; essential for a perfect dumpling!
- Fresh chives – Infuses a mild onion flavor; can be replaced with green onions if needed.
- Buttermilk – Creates a tender dough and rich flavor; mix with milk and vinegar if unavailable.
- Large egg – Binds the ingredients together, ensuring a cohesive topping; vital for texture.
This Turkey and Dumplings recipe is not just about the ingredients; it’s about creating memories and flavors that warm your heart. Enjoy the journey of bringing them together!
How to Make Turkey and Dumplings
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Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. This will create a rich, creamy base for your filling, so let it melt completely before adding the vegetables.
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Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes. You’ll want them to become fragrant and tender; this step builds the foundation of flavor in your pot pie.
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Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, mixing well. This will create a roux, thickening your filling as you introduce the liquids next.
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Whisk in the chicken stock and optional leftover gravy gradually, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Keep stirring until it thickens, giving you that comforting sauce that will envelop the turkey.
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Add in the shredded turkey, peas, parsley, black pepper, and salt to the mixture. Stir until everything is combined and warmed through – about 3-5 minutes will do.
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Combine the remaining flour, baking powder, chives, buttermilk, and egg in a separate bowl. Mix until you have a thick, sticky dough that will serve as the topping!
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Pour the turkey filling into your pie dish, then top it with the dough, sealing the edges carefully. This is where you can get creative – a little rustic look goes a long way!
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Bake according to your pie dough instructions, until the topping is golden brown and cooked through, which usually takes about 25-30 minutes.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for extra flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Turkey and Dumplings
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance the flavor of your Turkey and Dumplings. Frozen veggies can work in a pinch, but fresh adds vitality!
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Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the filling while simmering. Overcooking can cause the turkey to dry out, leading to a less enjoyable dish.
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Thickening Time: Ensure your roux is properly cooked but not burnt. A well-cooked roux will provide the perfect consistency for your sauce without a raw flour taste.
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Customize the Topping: Feel free to adjust the topping’s thickness by adding more or less buttermilk. A thicker topping can hold more filling, making for an extra hearty dish!
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Check Seasoning Last: Taste your filling before finishing, as it helps you adjust seasoning just right. Each turkey will have a varying saltiness, especially if using leftover gravy.
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Let It Rest: Allow the Turkey and Dumplings to cool slightly before serving; this will help the filling set and make serving easier.
What to Serve with Turkey Pot Pie?
Cozy up with the delightful flavors of comforting sides that beautifully enhance your pot pie experience.
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Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing crunch is the perfect contrast to the rich pot pie, adding brightness and a touch of zing. Top it with a light vinaigrette for an invigorating twist!
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery potatoes provide a smooth, velvety base that complements the savory filling while soaking up those delightful flavors.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet caramelized carrots not only bring vibrant color to the plate but also balance the richness of the pot pie with their natural sweetness.
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Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice studded with fresh herbs offers a light, aromatic touch that ties in with the earthy flavors of the turkey and spices in your dish.
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Savory Biscuit Bites: Flaky, buttery biscuits are like little pillows of comfort. Serve them warm for your guests to dunk in the turkey filling, making them irresistible!
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Chilled Apple Cider: A glass of spiced apple cider pairs beautifully, enhancing the hearty flavors while offering a crisp, refreshing quality.
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Pumpkin Pie Bars: For dessert, these bars provide a sweet, seasonal finish with warm spices that harmonize wonderfully with the savory notes of your meal.
Let these delightful accompaniments elevate your dining experience, transforming a simple pot pie into a memorable feast that warms the soul.
How to Store and Freeze Turkey and Dumplings
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled pot pie before baking. It can last up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, followed by foil.
Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-60 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. If thawed, bake for 30-35 minutes.
Serving Tip: Always let the Turkey and Dumplings cool for a few minutes before serving; this way, the filling sets slightly for easier slicing!
Make Ahead Options
These Turkey and Dumplings are an absolute lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance by cooking all the ingredients until just combined, then allowing it to cool before refrigerating in an airtight container. For the topping, mix your dry ingredients and combine them with buttermilk and egg, then store this dough in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the filling in a pot on the stove, pour it into a pie dish, and top it with the chilled dough. This way, you will enjoy all the flavors just as they should be, saving you time while ensuring your meal remains delicious!
Turkey and Dumplings Variations
Feel free to make this comforting dish your own by exploring these delightful twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a tasty and inclusive option.
- Vegetarian: Replace turkey with sautéed mushrooms and extra veggies for a hearty meatless version that still satiates.
- Creamy: Add a cup of heavy cream to the filling for an extra rich and luscious texture that takes comfort food to new heights.
- Spicy: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to infuse some heat for those who love a kick!
- Herbed: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of parsley for a fragrant twist that elevates the dish.
- Savory Cheese: Mix in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the filling for a deliciously cheesy flavor that the whole family will love!
- Root Veggies: Swap out carrots and celery for your favorite root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for a unique flavor profile.
- Nut Crust: For a crunchy topping, sprinkle some chopped nuts like almonds or pecans over the crust before baking for added texture and flavor.
With these variations, there’s no limit to the amazing comfort you can create in your kitchen!
Turkey and Dumplings Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best turkey for my Turkey and Dumplings?
Absolutely! When selecting turkey, look for fresh, sustainably raised options if possible. If using leftovers, ensure they are from a roast that was properly cooked and stored, ideally consumed within 3 to 4 days after cooking.
What is the best way to store Turkey and Dumplings?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure that the dish has completely cooled before sealing it to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Can I freeze Turkey and Dumplings?
Very much! To freeze, assemble the pot pie but avoid baking it first. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then cover it with foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to serve, you can bake it straight from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-60 minutes or until heated through.
What should I do if my filling is too thick or too thin?
No worries! If your filling is too thick, you can gradually whisk in a little more chicken stock to loosen it up. If too thin, return it to the stove and allow it to simmer a bit longer until it thickens up. A well-cooked roux helps achieve that cozy, creamy consistency!
Are there any dietary considerations for Turkey and Dumplings?
For sure! This recipe can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, consider adjusting seasoning if cooking for someone with high sodium sensitivity, especially if using store-bought broth or leftover gravy. Always check for allergies related to the ingredients used, such as dairy or specific vegetables.
Can I use frozen vegetables in my Turkey and Dumplings?
Absolutely! Frozen peas are a great choice as they add immediate freshness without thawing. However, if you’re using mixed frozen vegetables, consider sautéing them briefly before adding to the filling to prevent excess moisture from affecting the dish.
Savory Turkey and Dumplings: A Cozy Comfort Dish to Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Whisk in the chicken stock and optional leftover gravy gradually, bringing to a simmer.
- Add the shredded turkey, peas, parsley, black pepper, and salt to the mixture.
- Combine the remaining flour, baking powder, chives, buttermilk, and egg in a separate bowl.
- Pour the turkey filling into your pie dish, then top with the dough.
- Bake according to your pie dough instructions, until the topping is golden brown and cooked through.