Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pot Pie (From Scratch Crust & Filling)

Name: Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pot Pie Recipe
Prep time: 55 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Leftover turkey meat (about 4 cups cut/chopped); 1 cup of onions, garlic, and green onions (chopped); 1 cup of ‘half and half.’; 1 cup of broth (homemade or store-bought); 2 cups of frozen peas; 2 cups of chopped carrots; ½ cup of celery stalks (chopped); ¼ cup of flour; 1 teaspoon of salt; 1-2 Maggi (or 1-2 teaspoon of Chicken Bouillon seasoning powder); 1 teaspoon of onion powder; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger or ½ teaspoon of fresh ginger; 2-tablespoon olive oil; 1 egg (for egg brushing the pie before placing in the oven); 2½ cups of all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons of pure organic cane sugar; ½ teaspoon of salt; 1 cup of butter (or two sticks); ¼ (or less) cup of cold water

Say hello to this Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pot Pie of your dreams! It’s cozy, creamy, and easy to make from scratch — including the buttery homemade crust. Turkey pot pie is the perfect way to transform leftover turkey into a comforting, family-friendly meal that everyone will love! My kiddos were all over this hearty dish! I know you and your loved ones will love it too!

Homemade Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pot Pie!

After Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any big holiday meal, there’s always leftover turkey sitting in the fridge somewhere, right? Typically, just waiting to be transformed. Though there’s absolutely nothing wrong with eating them as is, I personally love to recreate those leftover turkeys into something special. And this Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pot Pie is one of my favorite ways to do exactly that. It’s warm, comforting, and completely easy to make from scratch — including the crust. I made a whole turkey this past Thanksgiving (for a family of 4), so we have tons of leftovers. Mind you, this turkey pot pie recipe uses only a breast, and yes, we still have more turkey in the freezer. 🙂 I will likely make my gluten-free chicken pot pie soup, turkey bites, or white chicken chili, next. Leftovers always welcome a new life!

This pot pie is rich without being (too) heavy, loaded with vegetables, and seasoned just right. Get creative and stick with the vegetables you love. If you don’t like peas, don’t add them. I have made these with a 4-cup bag of grocery-store frozen cut vegetables from the frozen aisle. I have also made them with select peas, fresh-cut carrots, and celery. Do what pleases you! This turkey pot pie recipe is the kind of meal that feels nostalgic and cozy, but also practical and satisfying. If you’re looking for a comforting way to stretch leftover turkey into a brand-new dinner, this recipe is it.

Why Turkey Pot Pie Recipe?

The very first time I made this leftover turkey pot pie was back in 2019 during the coronavirus lockdown. The country was shut down, gatherings were limited, and Thanksgiving looked very different that year. We celebrated quietly, just by ourselves, and like many households, we ended up with a lot of leftover turkey.

Out of that season came this recipe — born from simplicity, comfort, and making the most of what we had. What started as a practical way to use up leftovers quickly became a household staple. Since then, this turkey pot pie has made its way back to our table year after year, long after social distancing faded, simply because it’s comforting, familiar, and always hits the spot.

*Photos from our family’s Sunday dinner a few weeks after Thanksgiving 2025. It’s safe to say that turkey pot pie has officially become our family’s after-Thanksgiving tradition — a cozy, comforting way to keep the holiday spirit going long after the turkey is carved.

Turkey Pot Pie Vs. Chicken Pot Pie

On paper, turkey pot pie and chicken pot pie may sound different, but they are the same in reality. All you need to do is use chicken instead of turkey, and vice versa! Then add the veggies you like and make it as tasty as you wish.

Why You’ll Love This Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pot Pie

Uses real leftover turkey — no waste
Made with a from-scratch buttery pie crust
Creamy, well-seasoned filling packed with vegetables
Perfect for post-holiday meals or weekend cooking
Comfort food that feeds the whole family
It makes a perfect Sunday dinner and centerpiece as shown below

Turkey Pot Pie Ingredients:

Leftover turkey meat, chopped
Onions, chopped
Garlic cloves, minced
Frozen peas
Carrots, chopped
Celery stalks, chopped
All-purpose flour
Half-and-half
Chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
Olive oil
Salt
Maggi cubes (or 1–2 teaspoons Chicken Bouillon seasoning powder)
Onion powder
Black pepper
Ground ginger (or ½ teaspoon fresh ginger)
Egg (for egg wash)

Ingredients for making the best turkey pot pie with leftover thanksgiving turkey

NOTE: When it comes to the vegetables, go with what you like and add the veggies you enjoy. In my most recent turkey pot pie (December 2025), I used 4 cups of freezer aisle mixed vegetables, 1 cup chopped onion, and 1 cup green bell peppers, and it turned out so nicely!! I skipped peas and celery because those aren’t my kiddos’ fav.

When it comes to the vegetables, go with what you like and add the veggies you enjoy. In my most recent turkey pot pie (December 2025), I used 4 cups of freezer aisle mixed vegetables, 1 cup chopped onion, and 1 cup green bell peppers, and it turned out so nicely!! I skipped peas and celery because those aren't my kiddos' fav.

Homemade Pie Crust for Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pot Pie

To make the crust for this leftover Thanksgiving turkey pot pie, you will need flour, butter, a little sugar, a dash of salt, and cold water. Get excited because not only am I going to share my very easy pot pie recipe, but I am also going to show you how I make my crust from scratch every time.

What are the Ingredients for Making Turkey Pot Pie?

All-purpose flour
Organic cane sugar
Salt
Butter, cold
Cold water (as needed)

Homemade Pie Crust for Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pot Pie
To make the crust for this leftover Thanksgiving turkey pot pie, you will need flour, butter, a little sugar, a dash of salt, and cold water. Get excited because not only am I going to share my very easy pot pie recipe, but I am also going to show you how I make my crust from scratch every time.

How to Make the Pie Crust (From Scratch)

Cut the butter into small cubes and place it in the freezer for about 30 minutes to chill.
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt using your hands, a fork, or a food processor.
Add the chilled butter and work it into the flour until the mixture looks like coarse breadcrumbs.
Gradually add cold water, just until the dough comes together. Do not overwork it.
Form the dough into a ball and divide into two portions. (I typically use only one portion for the top crust.)
Wrap each portion and refrigerate for 30 minutes or freeze for 10 minutes.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to fit your baking dish. Set aside

How to Make Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pot Pie from scratch:

Let’s make the most cozy, creamy, and made-from-scratch. Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pot Pie is easy with the following steps.

Prep the Vegetables, cut/shred the turkey
Wash, chop, and set aside all vegetables before you start cooking.Wash, chop, and set aside all vegetables before you start cooking. Cut/shred your leftover turkey meat.
Build the Flavor Base and Sauté the Aromatics
Place a pot over medium heat and add olive oil. Once warm, add onions and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring until softened. Add the garlic, carrots, and celery. Season with Maggi (or seasoning powder), onion powder, black pepper, and ginger. Stir well to combine.
Create the Creamy Filling
Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 2–3 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Slowly add the chicken broth and half-and-half, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
Add the peas (if using them) and chopped turkey meat. Stir everything together, taste, and adjust the seasoning if needed. Cook for another 3–5 minutes, then remove from heat and allow the filling to cool slightly.
Assemble the Pot Pie
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray your baking dish and pour in the turkey filling. Flour your rolling board/clean surface and roll out the pie crust.
Secure Pie Crust on the Casserole
Gently place the rolled-out pie crust on top. Press the edges down using your hands or a fork to seal. Brush the crust with beaten egg for a golden finish. Use a knife to cut a few slits in the crust to allow steam to escape.
Bake the Turkey Pot Pie
Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Tips for the Best Turkey Pot Pie

Let the filling cool slightly before topping with the crust to prevent sogginess
Don’t skip the slits in the crust — they help release steam
If the crust browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil
This recipe works beautifully with leftover gravy added to the filling

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Make ahead: Assemble the pot pie and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking
Refrigerator: Store leftovers for up to 3–4 days
Freezer: Freeze unbaked or baked pot pie for up to 2 months
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through

Leftover Pot Pie FAQs:

Can I use leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or Christmas?

Yes, this recipe is made specifically for leftover turkey. Roasted, baked, or even smoked turkey all work beautifully in this pot pie. The picture below is the leftover turkey that I used in today’s recipe.

Can I substitute chicken for turkey?

Absolutely. If you don’t have leftover turkey, cooked chicken works just as well using the same measurements and method.

Why should I let the filling cool before adding the crust?

Allowing the filling to cool slightly helps prevent the crust from becoming soggy and ensures it bakes up flaky and golden.

Can you Refrigerate Unbaked Turkey Pot Pie?

Oh, absolutely, you can freeze unbaked turkey pot pie in the freezer whenever you are ready to use it, then you bake it until fully cooked.

Can I freeze turkey pot pie?

Yes. You can freeze it either baked or unbaked for up to 2 months. If baking from frozen, add extra baking time and loosely cover the crust if it browns too quickly.

What if my filling seems too thick or too thin?

If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or half-and-half. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer before assembling the pie.

Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of homemade?

Yes. While the homemade crust adds extra richness, a good-quality store-bought crust works perfectly when you’re short on time.

What other recipes can I make with Leftover Turkey?

My next best leftover turkey recipe has to be my healthy turkey bites on keto-friendly bread (pictured below). Peppered turkey bite is a perfect appetizer that I suggest you seriously check out!

These flavorful, fun, and fabulous turkey bread bites will leave you with an unforgettable experience.

More Dishes to Make With Leftover Turkey:

Turkey Noodle Soup
White Turkey Chili
Turkey Stew
Turkey Enchiladas
Easy Turkey Fried Rice
Leftover Turkey Tetrazzini
Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
Turkey Quiche or Frittata

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This pot pie recipe is the best thing to make with Thanksgiving Turkey leftover, and the best part is that you can use whatever you have! Don’t fret if you don’t have leftover turkey meat; you can totally make this recipe with chicken. This Leftover Turkey Pot Pie is everything comfort food should be — rich, creamy, hearty, and deeply satisfying. It’s a beautiful way to turn leftovers into something intentional and special, without wasting a thing.

If you have leftover turkey sitting in your fridge, this recipe deserves a spot on your table.

Happy cooking 🤍

More Cozy holiday Turkey recipes:

Herb Butter Turkey Breast (Perfect Oven-Roasted Turkey Meat) is an Easy and Delicious Option for the Holidays That everyone will enjoy! Looking for an easy, healthier option turkey recipe for the holidays? If you’re like me and already planning your Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner menus, then stay ahead of the curve with my effortless herb butter turkey breast. It’s one of my go-to, most festive turkey recipes for when I’m hosting, and you’re going to love it too! The best part is that it is easy-peasy to make! And yet it’s so moist, tasty, health-ish, and nutritious! Talk about an effortless turkey recipe your entire family will love!

Other Holiday Inspired Recipes You Will Love

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