Leftover Turkey Hand Pies Recipe

Whenever I have leftover turkey from a big family dinner, I love turning it into something completely new and exciting like these Leftover Turkey Hand Pies. They’re warm, flaky, and packed with cozy flavors that make me actually look forward to leftovers. This recipe is especially handy when you want a simple, satisfying meal that doesn’t feel like just reheated turkey.

You’ll find that this Leftover Turkey Hand Pies Recipe is the perfect way to use up all those Thanksgiving or holiday turkey bits without any waste. Plus, the hand pies are super portable and kid-friendly, making them great for lunches, picnics, or a casual dinner. I promise, once you try these, leftover turkey won’t ever feel boring again!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a role in creating that rich, creamy, and flavorful filling tucked inside a crispy puff pastry crust. I always recommend using fresh veggies and good-quality broth for the best taste.

• Unsalted butter: For sautéing veggies and adding richness without extra saltiness.
• Celery: Adds a subtle crunch and freshness in the filling.
• Carrot: Provides a sweet and earthy balance to the turkey.
• Yellow onion: Gives a mild, savory base flavor that’s essential for depth.
• Garlic: Adds an irresistible aroma and slight kick.
• All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the turkey filling into a creamy consistency.
• Chicken broth: The liquid that brings all the filling ingredients together with savory flavor.
• Milk: Makes the filling creamy without overpowering the turkey taste.
• Dried thyme: Provides that classic herbaceous note you expect in poultry dishes.
• Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors naturally.
• Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that balances the creaminess.
• Frozen peas: For little pops of sweetness and color.
• Cooked turkey: The star of the show – leftover turkey diced into bite-sized pieces.
• Puff pastry sheets: The flaky, buttery crust that makes these hand pies feel so special.
• Large egg: Combined with water for an egg wash that ensures a golden crust.
• Water: To thin out the egg wash for perfect browning.
• Fresh thyme and parsley: For garnish that adds a touch of freshness and color.

Variations

While I love sticking to the classic approach, you can easily tailor this leftover turkey hand pies recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

• Vegetarian option: Swap turkey for sautéed mushrooms and lentils to mimic that meaty texture and add umami depth—my go-to when I want a meatless twist.
• Cheesy addition: Adding a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or mozzarella into the filling makes the pies ooze with gooey goodness that my kids adore.
• Spicy kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper if you like a little heat; it wakes up the flavor nicely.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and puff pastry if you’re sensitive, and the pies still turn out crisp and delicious.

How to Make Leftover Turkey Hand Pies Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Veggies Until Tender

Start by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion, celery, and carrots, and sauté them gently until they soften up—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the flavor base, so don’t rush it. When they’re translucent and fragrant, add the minced garlic and cook for just about a minute more to release its aroma without burning.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling

Sprinkle in the flour and stir it into the veggies, letting it cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate that raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, then add thyme, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring as the mixture comes to a boil and thickens; this usually takes about 2 minutes. It’s important to keep the heat moderate and stir constantly so your filling doesn’t stick or clump.

Step 3: Stir in Turkey and Peas, Then Cool

Once your sauce has thickened, fold in the frozen peas and diced turkey. The peas add just the right pop of sweetness, and the turkey brings in those tender, meaty bites we all crave. Take the filling off the heat and let it cool slightly while you prepare your puff pastry—this prevents soggy crusts and helps everything set nicely.

Step 4: Cut Your Puff Pastry and Fill

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unroll one sheet of puff pastry and cut it into six equal rectangles. Keep the second sheet wrapped until you’re ready to use it—this keeps it from drying out. Place these rectangles onto your baking sheet, then spoon about 2 tablespoons of the turkey filling into the center of each rectangle.

Step 5: Seal and Glaze Your Hand Pies

Mix the egg with water to make an egg wash, then brush the edges of the filled rectangles to help seal them. Unroll the second puff pastry sheet and cut six matching rectangles. Place them on top of the filling, gently pressing the edges together with a fork to seal. Don’t forget to cut a few small slits on top for steam to escape and brush the tops with egg wash for that beautiful golden shine.

Step 6: Bake to Perfect Golden Flakiness

Bake your hand pies for about 30 to 35 minutes until they puff up beautifully and turn a deep golden brown. You’ll know they’re done when the crust is crispy and the filling bubbles slightly if you peek through the vents. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burning your mouth.

How to Serve Leftover Turkey Hand Pies Recipe

Garnishes

I usually garnish mine with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and thyme to brighten things up and add a pop of color. It makes a difference not just visually but also adds a light herbal note that complements the savory hand pies wonderfully.

Side Dishes

These hand pies are pretty filling on their own, but I love pairing them with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables to round out the meal. If I’m feeling indulgent, a side of buttery mashed potatoes or a scoop of classic cranberry sauce always hits the spot.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday brunches or special gatherings, I like arranging these hand pies on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of gravy or dipping sauces like honey mustard. Wrapping each pie individually in parchment for grab-and-go parties is another fun way to serve them that guests always appreciate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover turkey hand pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They keep pretty well but taste best eaten within the first day for that perfect crispness. Reheating them carefully helps bring back some of that fresh-baked charm.

Freezing

I’ve had great luck freezing leftover hand pies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferring them to a labeled, airtight container. They freeze well for up to two months and are a lifesaver when I want a quick homemade meal. Just remember to freeze them before baking or after fully cooling.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer the oven over the microwave so the crust stays flaky. Preheat your oven to 325°F, then bake the pies on a tray for 12-15 minutes. If they start browning too much before heating through, covering loosely with foil is a neat trick I’ve learned to keep them from burning.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

What I love most about this Leftover Turkey Hand Pies Recipe is how it transforms something ordinary into an exciting meal that feels fresh and homemade. It’s been my little secret weapon for stretching holiday leftovers without sacrificing flavor or fun. So next time you have turkey hanging around, give these hand pies a try—you won’t regret turning your leftovers into something cozy and delicious that everyone will love.

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