There’s nothing quite like the sight of a golden-brown pie crust emerging from the oven, the air filled with the warm, savory scent of spices and tender turkey. After holiday feasts, I often find myself with an abundance of leftover turkey, and that’s when these Leftover Turkey Hand Pies come to the rescue! With just a handful of ingredients and 40 minutes in the kitchen, you can transform yesterday’s turkey into a delightful meal that feels fresh and exciting.
I vividly recall a moment when I shocked my friends during a casual gathering. They were convinced I had spent hours preparing a gourmet dish, yet I had simply folded delicious turkey filling into flaky puff pastry. The best part? These hand pies are as versatile as they are delicious, making them perfect for any occasion whether you’re planning a simple family dinner or impressing guests at a potluck. So, let’s dive into this recipe and make use of those leftovers in a way that sparks joy in every bite!
Why will you love Leftover Turkey Hand Pies?
Indulge in the irresistible comfort of hand pies filled with savory turkey, creamy goodness, and vibrant veggies.
- Quick & Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep, you’re on your way to a delicious meal while keeping your kitchen blissfully clean.
- Flavor Explosion: The mix of thyme, garlic, and fragrant veggies elevates the humble turkey, ensuring every bite is packed with mouthwatering flavor.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, these hand pies impress even the most discerning taste buds.
- Versatile Ingredient Swap: Feel free to customize the filling swap in your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch!
- Fun to Make: Get the family involved in folding and sealing these delightful hand pies, making it a fun cooking project together.
Experience the joy of transforming leftovers into something extraordinary!
Leftover Turkey Hand Pie Ingredients
For the Filling
- Unsalted butter – adds richness and flavor to your turkey filling.
- Diced celery – brings a refreshing crunch and a hint of earthiness.
- Diced carrot – adds a touch of natural sweetness and color to the mix.
- Diced yellow onion – enhances the savory depth of the filling.
- Minced garlic – infuses a fragrant aroma and savory notes into the mixture.
- All-purpose flour – thickens the filling and binds all the flavors together.
- Chicken broth – adds moisture and enhances the savory character of the turkey.
- Milk – helps create a creamy texture, balancing the filling’s richness.
- Dried thyme – imparts an aromatic herbaceous flavor that complements the turkey.
- Kosher salt – elevates all the ingredients by enhancing their natural flavors.
- Black pepper – gives a subtle kick to the overall taste profile.
- Frozen peas – contributes a pop of color and sweetness to the filling.
- Cooked and diced turkey – the star of your leftover turkey hand pies that retains all its flavorful goodness.
For the Pastry
- Puff pastry – flaky layers create a delightful contrast to the savory filling.
- Large egg – combined with water, it forms an egg wash for golden-brown crust.
- Water – helps thin out the egg for an easy-to-apply wash to enhance browning.
For Garnish
- Fresh thyme – adds a beautiful, aromatic touch to your finished hand pies.
- Fresh parsley – brings a pop of color and freshness to each serving.
With these Leftover Turkey Hand Pie Ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a family-favorite dish that reimagines your holiday leftovers into something special!
How to Make Leftover Turkey Hand Pies
- Preheat your oven to 375℉. This step ensures the hand pies bake evenly and develop that golden-brown crust you crave. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- Sauté the vegetables. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrot, sautéing until they are softened, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and sauté again. Toss in the minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant you’ll love the aroma filling your kitchen!
- Whisk in flour. Stir in the flour until it’s fully combined. Gradually add the chicken broth and milk, followed by the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Mix in peas and turkey. Stir in the frozen peas and your diced leftover turkey until fully incorporated. Once combined, set this tasty filling aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the egg wash. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water until well mixed. This will give your hand pies that delicious golden hue.
- Cut puff pastry. Unroll one sheet of thawed puff pastry and cut it into 6 equal rectangles. Place these pieces on your lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart for even baking.
- Fill the pastry. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the turkey filling into the center of each rectangle. Brush the outer edges with your egg wash to help seal them securely.
- Seal with a second layer. Unroll the second sheet of puff pastry and cut it into 6 rectangles. Cover the filling with one piece, pressing the edges together with a fork to seal. Cut slits in the tops for venting, then brush with egg wash. Repeat with the second box of pastry.
- Bake for perfection! Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and beautifully golden-brown.
- Garnish your hand pies with freshly chopped parsley or thyme before serving. For an extra treat, serve them alongside turkey gravy for dipping!
Optional: Serve with a side of cranberry sauce for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Leftover Turkey Hand Pies
- Perfect Puff Pastry: Ensure your puff pastry is well-thawed before use for easy handling and achieving that flaky texture.
- Avoid Soggy Bottoms: Place your filled hand pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking and sogginess—crispiness is key!
- Seal Tight: Use the fork to press the edges firmly together, preventing any delicious filling from leaking out during baking.
- Customize Filling: Feel free to experiment by adding different vegetables or spices to the filling; it’s a great way to make your leftover turkey hand pies truly unique.
- Watch the Bake Time: Every oven is different; start checking for doneness at 30 minutes to avoid over-baking those golden treats.
- Golden Crust: Don’t skimp on the egg wash! It’s essential for achieving a beautiful, golden-brown crust—your guests will truly appreciate the presentation.
How to Store and Freeze Leftover Turkey Hand Pies
Room Temperature: Keep baked hand pies out for up to 2 hours at room temperature. If serving at a gathering, ensure they stay warm and covered.
Fridge: Store cooled hand pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes for best results.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked hand pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For frozen baked hand pies, reheat directly from the freezer at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through and crisp. Enjoy your delicious Leftover Turkey Hand Pies anytime!
What to Serve with Leftover Turkey Hand Pies?
Create a cozy meal that enchants your senses and brings everyone together around the table.
- Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pies, adding a bright note.
- Buttery Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that complements the savory fillings inside the hand pies perfectly.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized delights add a nutty crunch, enhancing the overall experience while echoing the warm flavors of your main dish.
- Sage Brown Butter Sauce: Drizzle this decadent sauce on top for a luxurious finish that lends a nutty flavor, elevating your hand pies to gourmet status.
- Homemade Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of homemade cranberry sauce brings balance, adding a festive twist that pairs beautifully with turkey flavors.
- Warm Apple Crisp: A delightful dessert with a touch of cinnamon and sweetness makes for a lovely finish, reminiscent of cozy nights by the fire.
- Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa with fresh herbs offers a nutrient-packed complement, rounding out the meal while remaining delightfully light.
- Sparkling Apple Cider: Refreshing and bubbly, this drink is the perfect non-alcoholic pairing that enhances the flavors, creating an inviting atmosphere.
- Savory Gravy: Serve warm gravy on the side for those who want an extra kick, making each bite even more comforting and satisfying.
Enjoy these pairings alongside your Leftover Turkey Hand Pies for a heartwarming meal that your family will adore!
Leftover Turkey Hand Pie Variations
Feel free to play around with these delectable hand pies and make them your own! Each twist adds a delightful layer of flavor and excitement.
- Cheesy Addition:
Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheese, like cheddar or Gruyère, for a creamy, melty filling. The cheese gets wonderfully gooey and complements the turkey perfectly. - Spicy Kick:
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the filling for a little heat. A touch of spice can elevate the flavor profile and excite your taste buds! - Vegetarian Twist:
Substitute the turkey with 2 cups of cooked and diced mushrooms or lentils. This creates a hearty vegetarian option that’s just as satisfying and delicious. - Creamy Spin:
Mix in ¼ cup of cream cheese with the filling for a rich and creamy texture. It adds a luscious creaminess that enhances the overall flavor. - Savory Herbs:
Exchange thyme for fresh rosemary or sage to give the filling a different herbal flair. Each herb brings a unique personality to your hand pies that can surprise and delight your palate. - Sweet Surprise:
Add 1/3 cup of dried cranberries or chopped apples for a sweet contrast. This version is perfect for those seeking a blend of savory and sweet flavors, reminiscent of the holiday spirit. - Mediterranean Flavor:
Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese into the filling. This variation brings a sun-kissed flavor profile that will transport you to a Mediterranean getaway with every bite.
Transform these hand pies into a personalized delight that fits your cravings and brings joy with every bite!
Make Ahead Options
These Leftover Turkey Hand Pies are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance; simply cook the veggies and mix in the turkey and seasonings, then let it cool before refrigerating in an airtight container. For even easier assembly, assemble the pies (without baking) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just remember to cover them well to keep the pastry fresh and prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake straight from the fridge for a delicious treat that’s just as crispy and flaky as if you made it the same day! This way, you can enjoy hearty, homemade meals on busy nights with minimal effort.
Leftover Turkey Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my turkey is fresh enough to use in these hand pies?
Absolutely! When using leftover turkey, ensure it has been stored properly. The meat should be refrigerated within 2 hours of cooking and can be safely consumed for up to 3-4 days. If your turkey has an off smell or shows signs of discoloration, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
What’s the best way to store leftover turkey hand pies?
Very! To store baked hand pies, let them cool completely and then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. If you want to keep your hand pies warm for a gathering, cover them with a clean kitchen towel to retain that delightful warmth.
Can I freeze the leftover turkey hand pies?
Of course! To freeze unbaked hand pies, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw them increase baking time slightly, and they will turn out delicious!
What if the filling is too runny when I make the hand pies?
If you find your filling is a bit runny, don’t worry! You can thicken it up by adding a little extra flour start with 1 tablespoon at a time. Cook the mixture a bit longer until it reaches your desired thickness. Always ensure the filling has cooled before you fill the pastry to prevent sogginess.
Are leftover turkey hand pies safe for pets if they drop on the floor?
Very! While turkey is generally safe for dogs, be cautious of any seasoning or added ingredients like garlic and onions, which are harmful to pets. If they drop on the floor, make sure it’s just plain turkey and no added spices before giving it to them. Always monitor your pet for any allergic reactions after introducing new foods.
Can I customize the fillings based on dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! These hand pies are incredibly versatile. If someone requires gluten-free options, consider using gluten-free flour alongside gluten-free puff pastry. You can also swap out the turkey for plant-based proteins or even load the filling with more vegetables if you’re catering to vegetarian preferences. Just ensure everything is appropriately cooked and seasoned to your taste!
Delicious Leftover Turkey Hand Pies for Cozy Nights In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375℉. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrot, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in flour until fully combined. Gradually add chicken broth and milk, followed by thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until thickened.
- Stir in frozen peas and diced turkey until fully incorporated. Set aside to cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk together egg and water to create egg wash.
- Unroll one sheet of puff pastry and cut into 6 rectangles. Place on baking sheet.
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the turkey filling into the center of each rectangle. Brush edges with egg wash.
- Cover with a second layer of puff pastry, pressing edges with a fork to seal. Cut slits for venting and brush with egg wash.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden-brown and puffed.
- Garnish with parsley or thyme before serving.