Name: Leftover Turkey Hand Pies: Deliciously Cozy Comfort Food
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 batch Pie Dough (Use leftover dough from Thanksgiving or purchase pre-made.); 2 cups Leftover Turkey (Shred or chop into small pieces.); 1 cup Vegetables (Parsnips, Carrots, Potatoes) (Frozen mixes can be substituted.); 1 large Egg (For egg wash.); 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt (Reduce quantity by half for fine salt.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The aroma of baked pastry wafting through the kitchen always stirs up memories of family gatherings and comforting meals. These Leftover Turkey Hand Pies are a delightful twist on traditional pot pie, turning your Thanksgiving leftovers into savory, handheld morsels that invite sharing. Wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust, each bite bursts with a scrumptious filling of tender turkey and roasted vegetables, making them an irresistible comfort food option. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they’re also perfect for meal prep—freezer-friendly and ready to bake whenever the craving strikes. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or served at a cozy gathering, these hand pies are sure to bring warmth and satisfaction. Have you ever tasted a dish that feels like a warm hug? Let’s dive into this comforting recipe and transform those leftovers into something extraordinary!

87bf0016 d065 4515 8280 4df642c30930tr rywipb

Why are Leftover Turkey Hand Pies Amazing?

Ultimate Comfort: The flaky pastry with savory turkey filling is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for any chilly evening.

Quick and Convenient: Ideal for busy days, these hand pies can be made ahead and frozen for a future meal that’s as easy to bake as it is delicious.

Customizable: Feel free to change up the filling by adding cheese or swapping in chicken, allowing everyone to enjoy a personalized version.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for family dinners or potluck gatherings, these hand pies are sure to please palates of all ages. Serve warm with cranberry sauce or a light salad for a delightful experience.

Satisfaction Guaranteed: Each bite is filled with tender turkey and roasted veggies, turning your Thanksgiving leftovers into a dish that feels both familiar and special. You’ll never look at leftovers the same way again! Enjoy this great example of how comfort food can also be practical, flavorful, and fun!

Leftover Turkey Hand Pie Ingredients

For the Pie Dough
• Pie Dough – Use leftover dough from Thanksgiving or purchase pre-made for a quick start.

For the Filling
• Leftover Turkey – Shred or chop into small pieces for optimal mixing and even flavor distribution.
• Vegetables (Parsnips, Carrots, Potatoes) – Adds delightful texture and flavor; frozen mixes can be a great substitution for convenience.
• Egg Wash (1 egg) – Brush on the crust for that irresistible golden-brown finish.
• Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; if using fine salt, reduce the quantity by half.

Note: These Leftover Turkey Hand Pies transform your holiday leftovers into a scrumptious, savory treat that everyone will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Leftover Turkey Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Dough
Start by rolling out your pie dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut the dough into 3×4-inch rectangles, ensuring you have equal pieces for the top and bottom of each hand pie. If you’re using pre-made dough, follow the package instructions, and keep the rolled dough chilled until ready to fill.

Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large skillet, combine your leftover turkey, diced parsnips, carrots, and potatoes over medium heat. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the mixture is heated through. Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely to avoid melting the dough when assembling the Leftover Turkey Hand Pies.

Step 3: Shape the Hand Pies
Take one rectangle of the prepared dough and spoon a generous amount of the turkey filling into the center. Brush the edges with egg wash to help seal the hand pies securely. Place another rectangle of dough over the filling, gently pressing the edges together to ensure a tight seal.

Step 4: Trim and Crimp Edges
Using a bench scraper or a knife, trim any excess dough from the edges to create a neat appearance. Then, crimp the edges with a fork for an added decorative touch and to further secure the filling inside each Leftover Turkey Hand Pie. This not only looks good but helps keep the filling from leaking while baking.

Step 5: Preheat and Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange your hand pies on it, leaving space between each for even baking. Brush the tops of the pies with the remaining egg wash to achieve a beautiful golden-brown finish. Bake for 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden and flaky with a delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the Leftover Turkey Hand Pies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes them easier to handle. Serve warm with a side of cranberry sauce or a fresh salad for a complete, cozy meal that your family will adore.

87bf0016 d065 4515 8280 4df642c30930bl lgb6fw

Make Ahead Options

These Leftover Turkey Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the pie dough and filling up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate them separately to keep the dough chilled and the filling fresh. Once ready to assemble, roll out the dough, fill it with the cooled turkey mixture, and seal as instructed. If you want to save even more time, you can shape the hand pies and freeze them unbaked for up to 3 months. Just remember to brush them with egg wash before baking straight from the freezer—add about 10 minutes to the cooking time for beautifully golden results. This way, you’ll have a comforting homemade meal ready to bake whenever the craving strikes!

What to Serve with Leftover Turkey Hand Pies

There’s nothing quite like pairing a delicious, homemade dish with complementary sides that enhance each other’s flavors.

Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of tart cranberry sauce beautifully balances the savory filling, adding a splash of color and flavor.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, perfect against the flaky pastry.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky, buttery mashed potatoes create a comforting side that echoes the rich flavors of the hand pies while adding a luscious texture.
Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted veggies bring out earthy flavors, providing both a visual and taste contrast to the delectable hand pies.
Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet, succulent corn-on-the-cob adds a fun, rustic touch to the meal that everyone will enjoy, especially on chilly nights.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, warm apple crisp drizzled with vanilla ice cream perfectly wraps up the meal, providing a sweet ending to your savory dish.
Sparkling Apple Cider: To drink, a glass of bubbly, crisp apple cider complements the savory hand pies with its lively sweetness, enhancing the dining experience.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: A slice of cheesy garlic bread brings delicious flavors together and is perfect for mopping up any delicious filling that escapes from the hand pies.

Enjoy mixing and matching these delightful sides to create a warm, comforting meal everyone will love!

Leftover Turkey Hand Pies: Tasty Variations

Feel free to explore different twists and swaps to make these hand pies your own!

Dairy-Free: Use non-dairy milk instead of egg wash for a golden crust, or leave it out entirely—your crust will still be delicious!
Replace butter with coconut oil for that flaky texture without dairy; they’ll taste just as comforting!
Vegetarian: Substitute turkey with a veggie protein like lentils or chickpeas. Add seasonal veggies for a hearty and nutritious filling.
These savory hand pies can be just as satisfying without meat, proving that comfort food can cater to everyone.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling for a touch of heat.
Just a few extras can turn your cozy hand pies into a spiced-up delight that will thrill those who enjoy a bit of adventure!
Cheesy Surprise: Incorporate your favorite cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, into the turkey filling for an extra creamy delight.
Just imagine that gooey, melty goodness inside; it’s comfort food at its finest!
Sweet and Savory: Try mixing in some dried cranberries or a splash of cranberry sauce into the turkey filling.
This unexpected twist adds a fantastic burst of flavor, blending savory with a hint of sweetness in each bite.
Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour pie dough for a gluten-free blend found at most grocery stores.
It’s a simple adjustment that ensures everyone can enjoy these delicious hand pies without compromise.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the filling for an aromatic touch.
This little extra makes every bite feel fresh and summery, no matter the season.
Different Proteins: If turkey isn’t on hand, roasted chicken or even leftover ham can work superbly in these hand pies.
You’ll be surprised at how versatile this recipe is; every protein swap opens up a brand-new flavor story!

Explore these variations, and let your creativity shine as you personalize your Leftover Turkey Hand Pies for unique flavors that will satisfy your cravings! And if you’re in the mood for a creamier experience, why not try a traditional turkey pot pie? It might also inspire your next baking adventure with all that comforting goodness!

Expert Tips for Leftover Turkey Hand Pies

Chill the Dough: Always keep your pie dough cold before rolling it out to ensure a flaky texture. Warm dough can lead to sogginess when baked.
Cool the Filling: Never skip the cooling step for your turkey filling; using it hot will risk melting the dough and creating a mess during assembly.
Seal Properly: Make sure to seal the edges of the hand pies well to prevent leaks. A simple fork crimp method works beautifully for this.
Baking from Frozen: If you’re freezing unbaked hand pies, bake them directly from the freezer without thawing them first—just add about 10 extra minutes to ensure they’re heated through.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Adding cheese or switching the veggies in your Leftover Turkey Hand Pies can provide a delightful twist that everyone will enjoy.

How to Store and Freeze Leftover Turkey Hand Pies

Fridge: Store baked hand pies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes for best results.

Freezer: Unbaked hand pies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to maintain freshness.

Baking from Frozen: Bake straight from the freezer, adding approximately 10 extra minutes to the cooking time at 425°F for a perfectly golden crust.

Reheating Baked Pies: If you have leftover baked turkey hand pies, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy that delightful comfort again!

87bf0016 d065 4515 8280 4df642c30930br h908tw

Leftover Turkey Hand Pies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best leftover turkey?
Absolutely! When choosing your leftover turkey, look for tender, juicy pieces without any dark spots or signs of spoilage. The meat should be well-cooked and flavorful, ensuring that your hand pies are delicious. If possible, use turkey that’s been stored properly in the refrigerator within 3 to 4 days after cooking for the best results.

What’s the best way to store leftover turkey hand pies?
You can store baked hand pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes for a crispy crust. For optimal taste, I recommend enjoying them fresh, but if you have leftovers, don’t hesitate to savor them again!

Can I freeze leftover turkey hand pies?
Very! Unbaked hand pies freeze beautifully. Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to keep them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from the freezer, adding about 10 extra minutes to the usual cooking time of 35 minutes at 425°F. You’ll still achieve a golden, flaky crust!

What should I do if my hand pie filling is too hot during assembly?
It’s essential to let your filling cool completely before assembling the pies. If you find you’ve made a tasty filling but it’s still hot, allow it to cool on the counter for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to release heat. Warm filling can melt the dough, leading to potential leaks when baking, so patience pays off here!

Are leftover turkey hand pies suitable for special diets?
Absolutely! You can customize your leftover turkey hand pies to accommodate various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, swap in gluten-free pie crust. Should you need to avoid dairy, consider using a milk substitute in the egg wash or skip it altogether. When serving, just double-check that guests are aware of any cheese or extra ingredients added to the filling for potential allergies.