Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, then this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is just what you need! This recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it combines all the flavors of a traditional Thanksgiving feast into one hearty pie. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it’s a comforting classic that everyone can enjoy, whether they’re vegan or not.

Imagine flaky crust filled with savory chick’n and vibrant veggies, all topped with delicious stuffing. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time. Trust me; this pot pie will quickly become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can whip up this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Even non-vegans will love this comforting dish, making it perfect for gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven right before serving – less stress during busy holidays!
• Flavorful Comfort Food: Rich flavors from the chick’n and stuffing create a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is part of the fun! They are all simple, wholesome components that will come together to create something truly special.

For the Pie Filling

• 1 9-10” vegan pie crust, store bought or homemade
• 2 cups vegan chick’n pieces, cooked and set aside
• 2 medium sized carrots, sliced in half and sliced into semi-circles or diced
• 1/2 cup sliced celery
• 1/2 medium to large onion, chopped medium sized dice
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 6 tablespoons vegan butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 1 1/2 cups vegan vegetable broth
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2/3 cup vegan heavy cream

For the Topping

• 2-3 cups vegan stuffing, homemade (my recipe here) or packaged and prepared, but do not bake as it will bake on top of the pie

Variations

This recipe is flexible, so feel free to get creative! Here are some variation ideas you might love:

• Swap the protein: Use seitan or tempeh instead of chick’n for a different texture and flavor.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some mushrooms or green beans for extra nutrients and color.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for a unique twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free flour and use a gluten-free pie crust if needed.

How to Make Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Crust

If you’re using a store-bought crust, you can take it directly from the freezer. For homemade, ensure it’s well chilled. This step is crucial because a cold crust bakes up flaky and light.

Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing

Follow my stuffing recipe or prepare your favorite store-bought version. Make sure to let it cool after preparation; this will help prevent sogginess when layering it on top of the pie.

Step 3: Cook the Chick’n Pieces

Cook your chick’n pieces separately to ensure they retain their texture. I recommend using an air fryer or pan frying them until golden brown. If you’d like to add extra flavor, season them lightly during cooking. Set aside once done.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic first; cook until they’re fragrant and translucent. Then add carrots and celery, stirring occasionally until tender. This step builds layers of flavor in your filling!

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Sprinkle flour over your sautéed veggies, mixing well so everything is coated. Gradually pour in vegetable broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add salt, pepper, thyme, peas, and cream next; cook on low until thickened. This sauce is what makes your pot pie creamy and luscious!

Step 6: Assemble Your Pie

Pour your filling into the pie crust evenly. Top generously with prepared stuffing—this creates a delicious crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling underneath.

Step 7: Bake

Place your pot pie in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 40 minutes or until golden brown on top. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Now sit back, relax, and enjoy every bite of this delightful Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Creating the perfect Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is easier than you might think! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out deliciously every time.

• Use a high-quality crust: A flaky, flavorful crust can make all the difference in your pot pie. Whether you choose store-bought or homemade, ensure it’s made with quality ingredients for the best texture and taste.

• Don’t skip the seasoning: Adding herbs and spices to your filling enhances the flavor profile significantly. Thyme, rosemary, or even a dash of nutmeg will elevate your pot pie to a whole new level.

• Pre-cook your vegetables: Sautéing your carrots, celery, and onions before adding them to the filling not only softens them but also intensifies their flavors. Plus, it helps avoid excess moisture that could make your filling runny.

• Let the stuffing cool: If you’re using homemade stuffing, allow it to cool before adding it to the pot pie. This prevents the mixture from becoming too soggy and ensures it maintains its texture on top of the pie.

• Cover edges with foil: To prevent over-browning during baking, cover the edges of your crust with aluminum foil after 20 minutes. This way, you’ll have a beautifully golden crust without burning!

How to Serve Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Presenting your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie with flair can turn this delightful dish into a centerpiece at any gathering! Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or thyme on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Vegan sour cream: A dollop of vegan sour cream adds creaminess and tang that complements the savory flavors of the pot pie.
• Crispy shallots: For an extra crunch, top your pot pie with crispy fried shallots; they add both texture and flavor that enhance every bite.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, these caramelized sprouts offer a slightly bitter contrast that balances the richness of the pot pie.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic pair beautifully with pot pie and provide a comforting touch to your holiday spread.
• Cranberry sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the savory flavors perfectly while adding a festive touch to your meal.
• Green bean almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with toasted almonds add crunch and brightness, rounding out the meal beautifully.

With these serving tips and side dish suggestions, your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie will be not just a meal but an experience everyone will remember! Enjoy creating this comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any holiday table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dish without the last-minute rush. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it, making it an ideal choice for busy holiday gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pot pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Make sure the pot pie has cooled completely.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To maintain quality, consume sooner if possible.

Reheating

• Thaw the frozen pot pie overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and heat for about 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until heated through and top is crispy.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I make this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuffing a day in advance. Just assemble everything right before baking for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

What can I use instead of vegan heavy cream in Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie?

You can use coconut cream, cashew cream, or any non-dairy milk combined with cornstarch as a thickener. These alternatives will give you a creamy consistency while keeping it deliciously vegan!

How long does Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie take to cook?

The total time for preparing and cooking this dish is about 1 hour and 10 minutes, making it a relatively quick option for your holiday feast.

Can I customize the vegetables in my Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add any seasonal vegetables you love. Just keep the cooking times in mind to ensure everything is tender and delicious.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie becomes a cherished part of your holiday traditions! It’s hearty, flavorful, and brings everyone together around the table. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any tweaks you make along the way. Happy cooking!

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