Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

If you’re looking for a heartwarming dish that captures the spirit of Thanksgiving, look no further than this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it combines comfort food with wholesome ingredients. It’s perfect for family gatherings, cozy weeknight dinners, or even meal prep for those busy days. Plus, the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen will make everyone feel right at home.

What makes this pot pie truly special is the savory stuffing topping that adds a delightful crunch to every bite. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience—a warm hug on a plate that everyone can enjoy, whether they’re vegan or not!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting flavors: The combination of chick’n, veggies, and creamy sauce wrapped in a flaky crust is simply irresistible.
• Family-friendly: Everyone will love digging into this hearty pot pie—picky eaters included!
• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip this up without any fuss.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Versatile dish: This vegan pot pie fits perfectly into various occasions, from holidays to casual dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Now let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie comes together beautifully with just a few staples you might already have in your pantry.

For the 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

For the Creamy Sauce

• 2/3 cup vegan heavy cream (see notes)

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

One of the best things about this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative based on what you have at home or personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use tofu or tempeh instead of chick’n for a different texture and flavor.
• Add more veggies: Feel free to add mushrooms, green beans, or corn for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Change the herbs: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary to elevate the flavor profile.

How to Make Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Crust

If using a store-bought crust, you can take it from frozen straight to your baking dish. If you’re making your own crust, ensure it’s well chilled before rolling out. A cold crust helps create that flaky texture we all love!

Step 2: Cook Your Stuffing

Prepare your stuffing based on my recipe link provided or follow package instructions if you’re using store-bought. Allow it to cool before adding it to your pot pie; this helps maintain its texture when baked.

Step 3: Sauté Your Veggies

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the vegan butter. Once melted, add onions and garlic. Sauté them until they become translucent—this brings out their natural sweetness which enhances your filling’s flavor. Then toss in carrots and celery; cook until tender.

Step 4: Create Your Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle flour over sautéed veggies and stir well. Gradually pour in vegetable broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add in thyme, salt, pepper, peas, and finally mix in your reserved chick’n pieces along with the vegan heavy cream. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pot Pie

Pour the filling into your prepared pie crust. Spoon dollops of stuffing evenly over the top—this will create a deliciously crunchy layer as it bakes!

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once preheated, place your assembled pot pie directly into the oven. Bake for about 40 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. The aroma will be heavenly!

And there you have it—your very own Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie! Enjoy every bite with family and friends; it’s sure to become a beloved tradition in no time!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Creating the perfect Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is all about attention to detail and a sprinkle of love! Here are some pro tips to help you achieve pot pie perfection.

• Choose a Quality Crust: A flaky, delicious crust is crucial to your pot pie’s success. Whether you make it from scratch or buy it, ensure it’s vegan and well-chilled before using. This ensures it bakes up nice and crisp.

• Cook Chick’n Separately: Cooking your chick’n pieces beforehand prevents them from becoming mushy in the filling. This way, they maintain a delightful texture and soak up all the delicious flavors without losing their bite.

• Don’t Skip the Seasoning: If you want to add more flavor, consider seasoning your chick’n while cooking. A pinch of smoked paprika or Italian herbs can elevate the dish further, making each bite sing!

• Let Stuffing Cool: If you’re using prepared stuffing, allow it to cool before adding it on top of the filling. This helps prevent the crust from getting soggy and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Cover Edges While Baking: If your crust edges start browning too quickly while baking, cover them with strips of aluminum foil. This keeps them from burning and ensures an evenly cooked pie.

How to Serve Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Serving your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie can be as creative as you like! It’s not just about being delicious; presentation plays a key role in making your meal festive and inviting. Here are some ideas for serving this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh parsley or thyme sprinkled over the top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each slice.
• Vegan Sour Cream: A dollop of vegan sour cream on each plate brings creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the pie.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements the rich flavors of pot pie.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy vegetables offer a slightly bitter contrast that balances out the richness of your pot pie.
• Cranberry Sauce: A sweet-tart cranberry sauce adds a festive touch and enhances the overall flavor profile with its zing.
• Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds provide a crunchy texture and vibrant color on your holiday table.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie will not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on your table! Enjoy every moment shared around this comforting dish during your holiday celebrations.

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 for later, making your holiday cooking a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• After baking, let the pot pie cool completely.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Allow the baked pot pie to cool completely.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Remove wrapping and place in an oven-safe dish; cover loosely with foil.
• Bake for about 45-60 minutes or until heated through. If reheating refrigerated leftovers, bake for about 20-25 minutes at the same temperature.

FAQs

You might have some questions about this delicious recipe. Here are some common ones!

Can I make this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use a gluten-free pie crust and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in the filling.

How can I customize my Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like green beans or corn! Spices such as rosemary or sage can also enhance the flavor.

Is this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This pot pie is great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty dish throughout the week or save it for special occasions.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie! It’s not just a meal but a comforting hug on a plate that brings everyone together during the holidays. Enjoy making it and savoring each delightful bite with family and friends. Happy cooking!