Comforting Leftover Turkey Pie for Thanksgiving

The morning after Thanksgiving carries a hush that lingers longer than usual. Plates are stacked, candles burned low, and yet the aroma of roasted herbs still drifts through the air as if the feast never ended. In that quiet, I opened the refrigerator to a familiar sight, containers brimming with turkey, roasted vegetables, and stuffing, each one holding a fragment of yesterday’s gathering.

Rather than preparing another reheated plate, an idea began to take shape. I reached for my old ceramic pie dish, the one that has seen more Sunday suppers than I can count, and began arranging each layer as if building a story. A flaky crust to anchor it, creamy potatoes to mellow the edges, savory turkey nestled in rich gravy, and a crown of stuffing to seal it all, each ingredient finding a new place in a single, comforting bake.

As it baked, the kitchen slowly regained its heartbeat. Steam curled at the edges, the top turned golden and crisp, and a gentle aroma of broth and herbs invited anyone nearby to linger. That pie wasn’t just a way to clear leftovers, it became a quiet continuation of celebration, proof that gratitude can live beyond the holiday, tucked into every warm slice.

Short Description

Comforting Leftover Turkey Pie For Thanksgiving — A hearty Thanksgiving leftover turkey pie with layers of tender turkey, creamy vegetables, mashed potatoes, and stuffing, baked under a flaky crust for a cozy post-holiday meal.

Key Ingredients

• 1 ready-made pie crust
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups leftover turkey meat, chopped
• 1 box Stove Top stuffing
• 2 cups chicken or turkey broth
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup corn
• 1 cup green beans
• 5 medium potatoes (or prepared mashed potato mix)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp salt

Tools Needed

• Pie dish
• Large skillet or pan
• Cooking pot
• Wooden spoon
• Mixing bowl
• Potato masher

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Butter the baking dish and gently press the ready-made pie crust into it. Shape it to fit the dish edges and preheat the oven to 375°F.

Step 2: Cook and Mash the Potatoes
Peel and cut 5 medium potatoes into bite-size pieces. Add them to a pot of cold water with 1 teaspoon salt. Boil for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain, then mash with milk and butter until creamy. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Turkey Filling
Chop leftover turkey into bite-size cubes. Heat olive oil in a large pan and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Broth
Add turkey, peas, carrots, corn, and green beans. Season with a pinch of salt and cook for 5 minutes. Pour broth into the center, add cornstarch, and stir until thickened, about 5 minutes. Set aside.

Step 5: Make the Stuffing
Prepare Stove Top stuffing according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 6: Assemble the Pie
Spread turkey filling evenly over the crust. Top with mashed potatoes, smoothing into an even layer. Finish with stuffing, gently pressing so it adheres.

Step 7: Bake
Bake for 30 minutes at 375°F until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines all Thanksgiving favorites in one meal

Reduces food waste with a creative twist

Family-friendly and hearty

Freezer-friendly for easy weeknight dinners

Comforting and nostalgic flavors

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Overfilling the Pie
Too much filling can cause overflow.
Solution: Leave a small gap near the top.

Runny Filling
Undissolved cornstarch leads to thin gravy.
Solution: Dissolve cornstarch fully in broth before mixing.

Dry Stuffing Top
Stuffing may dry out if baked too long.
Solution: Cover with foil midway if browning too quickly.

Soggy Crust
Moisture may soften crust.
Solution: Pre-bake crust for 5 minutes for extra crispness.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve each slice with warm gravy and a spoonful of cranberry sauce for contrast.

Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts or a crisp green salad to balance the richness.

Perfect for family-style meals, brunch gatherings, or cozy weekend leftovers.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.

To freeze, wrap individual slices securely, freeze for up to 1 month, and thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought mashed potatoes?
Yes, ready-made mashed potatoes work well.

2. Can I add cheese?
Absolutely, mix shredded cheese into the potatoes for extra richness.

3. How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Pre-bake and ensure filling is thick.

4. Can I make it vegetarian?
Substitute turkey with mushrooms or lentils.

5. Can I prepare it ahead?
Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Tips & Tricks

Brush crust edges with butter for golden color

Use leftover gravy instead of broth for richer flavor

Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for aroma

Recipe Variations

Cheesy Turkey Pie: Add 1 cup shredded cheddar into mashed potatoes.

Herb & Mushroom Pie: Replace turkey with sautéed mushrooms and thyme.

Cranberry-Topped Pie: Add a layer of cranberry sauce beneath stuffing for sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This pie has become my quiet tradition after the holiday rush—a way to gather the scattered flavors of Thanksgiving into one warm dish. Each slice reminds me that comfort can be simple, born from what we already have in our kitchens. It’s more than leftovers; it’s a second celebration, tucked beneath a golden crust.

If you find yourself staring at containers of turkey and sides, consider this pie your invitation to slow down and savor. It’s the kind of meal meant to be shared, reheated, and remembered—proof that gratitude doesn’t end with the feast.