Stuffing Crust Turkey Potpie: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Comfort Food

Stuffing Crust Turkey Potpie: Imagine sinking your fork into a flaky, golden-brown crust, not just any crust, but one made entirely of savory stuffing! This isn’t your grandma’s potpie (though we love her version too!). We’re taking comfort food to a whole new level with this incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy recipe.

Potpie, in its essence, is a dish steeped in history, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. These early versions were often encased in inedible “coffyns” designed solely to hold the filling. Thankfully, culinary traditions have evolved, and today, we celebrate the crust as much as the filling! This Stuffing Crust Turkey Potpie pays homage to that evolution, combining the classic warmth of potpie with the beloved flavors of Thanksgiving stuffing.

What makes this dish so irresistible? It’s the perfect marriage of textures and tastes. The creamy, savory turkey filling, brimming with tender vegetables, is beautifully complemented by the crispy, herb-infused stuffing crust. It’s a comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or when you simply crave a taste of home. Plus, using leftover turkey makes it incredibly convenient and a fantastic way to reduce food waste after a holiday feast. Get ready to experience potpie like never before!

Ingredients:

• For the Stuffing Crust:
• 2 cups seasoned stuffing mix (I prefer Pepperidge Farm Herb Seasoned)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• For the Turkey Potpie Filling:
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk (I use 2%)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 2 cups cooked turkey, cubed (leftovers work great!)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt to taste

Preparing the Stuffing Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish. This will prevent the stuffing crust from sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the seasoned stuffing mix, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Make sure the butter is evenly distributed throughout the stuffing mix. I like to use my hands to really get in there and mix it well.
3. Add the chicken broth and beaten egg to the stuffing mixture. Stir until everything is moistened and holds together. The mixture should be damp but not soggy. If it seems too dry, add a tablespoon of chicken broth at a time until you reach the right consistency.
4. Press the stuffing mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pie dish. You want to create a sturdy crust that will hold the potpie filling. I find it helpful to use the back of a spoon to smooth out the crust and make sure it’s firmly packed.
5. Bake the stuffing crust for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden brown and set. Keep a close eye on it, as it can burn easily. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and set it aside while you prepare the filling.

Making the Turkey Potpie Filling:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t let them brown too much.
2. Stir in the dried thyme, dried rosemary, and black pepper. Cook for another minute, allowing the herbs to release their fragrance. This step really enhances the flavor of the potpie.
3. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the vegetables. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes. This will create a roux that will help thicken the sauce. Make sure to cook out the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to break up any lumps that may form. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth.
5. Add the milk and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Stir in the frozen peas, frozen corn, and cooked turkey. Heat through, about 3-5 minutes. Make sure the turkey is heated through properly.
7. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and season with salt to taste. I always recommend tasting the filling and adjusting the seasoning as needed.

Assembling and Baking the Potpie:

1. Pour the turkey potpie filling into the prepared stuffing crust. Spread it evenly to ensure each bite is perfect.
2. Return the potpie to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the stuffing crust is golden brown. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil.
3. Remove the potpie from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set slightly and prevent it from being too runny.
4. Slice and serve warm. Enjoy! This potpie is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread.

Tips and Variations:

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to the filling, such as potatoes, mushrooms, or green beans. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Crust Options: If you don’t want to make a stuffing crust, you can use a store-bought pie crust or puff pastry. Just follow the package directions for baking.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little bit of heat.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just add the peas and corn right before baking. You can also assemble the entire potpie and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
• Leftovers: Leftover potpie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave.
• Gravy Boost: For an even richer flavor, add 1/2 cup of turkey gravy to the filling.
• Cheese Please: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top of the stuffing crust during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting Stuffing Crust Turkey Potpie!

Conclusion:

This Stuffing Crust Turkey Potpie isn’t just another recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a comforting symphony of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. From the savory, creamy filling bursting with tender turkey and vegetables to the golden-brown, herb-infused stuffing crust, every bite is an experience. I truly believe this recipe elevates the classic potpie to a whole new level of deliciousness, making it a must-try for any home cook looking to impress.

Why is this recipe a must-try? Because it’s more than just a meal; it’s a memory in the making. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey (or any roasted turkey, really!), transforming it into something truly special. The stuffing crust, oh, the stuffing crust! It’s not just a topping; it’s an integral part of the dish, adding a delightful savory crunch that complements the creamy filling perfectly. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers. The combination of convenience and incredible flavor makes this Stuffing Crust Turkey Potpie a winner in my book.

Looking for serving suggestions or variations? I’ve got you covered! For a heartier meal, serve each slice with a side of cranberry sauce or a simple green salad. The tartness of the cranberries cuts through the richness of the potpie beautifully, while the salad adds a refreshing element. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a subtle kick. Or, for a vegetarian option, substitute the turkey with roasted butternut squash and mushrooms. You could even experiment with different types of stuffing for the crust – cornbread stuffing would be amazing! Feel free to get creative and adapt the recipe to your own taste preferences.

Don’t be intimidated by the “stuffing crust” part – it’s much easier than it looks! The key is to use a good quality stuffing mix and follow the instructions carefully. And remember, even if it doesn’t look perfect, it will still taste amazing. The rustic charm of a homemade potpie is part of its appeal, after all.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of a homemade Stuffing Crust Turkey Potpie. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or special occasions. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below – I can’t wait to see your creations! Happy cooking! I am confident that this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen, bringing warmth and deliciousness to your table for years to come. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece!