Leftover Turkey Hand Pies are a delightful way to transform your holiday leftovers into scrumptious, cozy meals. These delightful pastries make use of cooked turkey, combining it with savory vegetables and a creamy sauce, all enveloped in flaky puff pastry. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet night in or hosting friends, these hand pies are quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Leftover Turkey Hand Pies

These leftover turkey hand pies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons to love them:

They are a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey and reduce food waste.
Each bite is filled with a savory turkey filling that can satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
The easy turkey hand pie recipe can be modified with various fillings, making it perfect for any palate.
They freeze beautifully, allowing for quick turkey hand pie meals whenever you crave them.
These hand pies are ideal for a cozy night in or as a party appetizer.
With just a few ingredients, you can create a nutritious meal that is also comforting.

Ingredients for Leftover Turkey Hand Pies

Gather these items:

2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
1 cup Diced celery
1 cup Diced carrot
1 cup Diced yellow onion
2 cloves Minced garlic
2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
1 cup Chicken broth
1/2 cup Milk
1 teaspoon Dried thyme
1 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
1 cup Frozen peas
2 cups Cooked and diced turkey
2 sheets Puff pastry
1 large Egg
1 tablespoon Water
1 tablespoon Fresh thyme
1 tablespoon Fresh parsley

How to Make Leftover Turkey Hand Pies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375℉. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrot, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in flour until fully combined. Gradually add chicken broth and milk, followed by thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until thickened.
Step 5: Stir in frozen peas and diced turkey until fully incorporated. Set aside to cool.
Step 6: In a small bowl, whisk together egg and water to create egg wash.
Step 7: Unroll one sheet of puff pastry and cut into 6 rectangles. Place on baking sheet.
Step 8: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the turkey filling into the center of each rectangle. Brush edges with egg wash.
Step 9: Cover with a second layer of puff pastry, pressing edges with a fork to seal. Cut slits for venting and brush with egg wash.
Step 10: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden-brown and puffed.
Step 11: Garnish with parsley or thyme before serving.

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Pro Tips for the Best Leftover Turkey Hand Pies

Keep these in mind:

Ensure the filling is cool before sealing the pastries to avoid sogginess.
You can add more vegetables or herbs to the filling for extra flavor.
For a crispy crust, avoid overfilling the hand pies.
These freezer-friendly turkey hand pies can be frozen for up to three months; just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Best Ways to Serve Leftover Turkey Hand Pies

These hand pies can be served in many ways:

Pair them with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
Serve with gravy on the side for dipping, making turkey hand pies with gravy even more enjoyable.
They also make great party snacks when cut into smaller portions.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Turkey Hand Pies

Store any leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350℉ for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This method preserves the pastry’s crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Leftover Turkey Hand Pies

What’s the secret to perfect Leftover Turkey Hand Pies?

The secret lies in not overfilling them and ensuring your filling is well-seasoned. The balance of flavors and textures is key to making satisfying turkey hand pies.

Can I make Leftover Turkey Hand Pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pies in advance. Just keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to bake, making them perfect for quick turkey hand pie meals!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Leftover Turkey Hand Pies?

Avoid common pitfalls by ensuring your pastry is cold before baking and not overcooking the filling. This will keep your homemade turkey hand pies delicious and flaky.

Variations of Leftover Turkey Hand Pies You Can Try

Feel free to mix things up with these ideas:

Substitute the turkey with chicken for a turkey pot pie twist.
Add cranberries or spinach for a festive flair.
Experiment with different spices like curry powder for a unique flavor.

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For more delicious recipes, check out our Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler or Pumpkin Coffee Cake. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, you might enjoy our Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cookies or Irresistible Peach Upside Down Mini Cakes. For a comforting dessert, try our Southern Banana Cobbler.

For more information on food safety and storage, visit the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service.