Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish to bring to your table this holiday season, let me introduce you to my Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie! It’s a delightful twist on a classic favorite, filled with savory chick’n, tender veggies, and topped with delicious stuffing. This pot pie is not just for Thanksgiving; it’s perfect for family gatherings, busy weeknights, or any time you crave comfort food that’s both satisfying and kind to the planet.

What makes this recipe particularly special is its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. The creamy filling combined with the crispy stuffing creates a blend that warms your heart and fills your belly. Trust me, everyone at your table will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this pot pie ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Even picky eaters will love the comforting flavors of this dish!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the filling in advance and assemble it right before baking.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of chick’n, vegetables, and savory stuffing makes each bite a joy.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a cozy family meal, this pot pie fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the ingredients that make this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie so special! These are simple, wholesome components that come together beautifully in one hearty dish.

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 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 (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

This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Use lentils or mushrooms instead of chick’n for a different texture and flavor.
• Add more veggies: Incorporate other favorites like green beans or corn for added color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little kick!
• Change the herbs: Experiment with rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a unique twist.

How to Make Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Crust

If you’re using a store-bought crust, you can pull it straight from the freezer. If making homemade crust, ensure it’s well chilled before rolling it out. A good crust sets the foundation for our delicious filling!

Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing

Follow my recipe for homemade stuffing or prepare store-bought stuffing according to package instructions. Let it cool while you work on the filling. This adds great flavor on top!

Step 3: Cook the Chick’n Pieces

Cooking your chick’n pieces separately ensures they retain their texture. I recommend using an air fryer for crispiness, but pan-frying works too! Feel free to add any seasonings you like during this step.

Step 4: Sauté Your Veggies

In a big skillet over medium heat, melt your vegan butter. Add in onions and garlic first; sauté until they turn translucent. Next, toss in carrots and celery until they soften. This step is crucial because it enhances their natural sweetness!

Step 5: Create Your Sauce

Sprinkle flour over the sautéed veggies and stir well. Gradually whisk in vegetable broth while stirring continuously until thickened. Add in your chick’n pieces along with peas and vegan heavy cream. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme—this is where all those flavors come together!

Step 6: Assemble Your Pot Pie

Pour the filling into your prepared pie crust. Top generously with your cooled stuffing mixture—it will create a beautiful golden crust when baked!

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Place your assembled pot pie into a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 40 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. The aroma will fill your kitchen!

There you have it—your very own Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie! I hope this dish brings warmth to your home as much as it does mine. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Creating the perfect Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is all about the details, and these tips will help you ensure that your dish is nothing short of spectacular!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Having all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking saves time and reduces stress during the cooking process. This way, you can focus on enjoying the moment with your loved ones.

• Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Slightly undercooked vegetables in the filling maintain their texture and flavor during baking. This will give your pot pie a delightful bite instead of mushiness.

• Choose the Right Vegan Cream: Opt for a creamy vegan heavy cream that mimics the richness of traditional cream. This will elevate your filling, making it deliciously indulgent without compromising on diet preferences.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to add herbs like rosemary or sage to your filling for an extra depth of flavor. These herbs complement the stuffing beautifully and enhance the overall taste of the pot pie.

• Let it Rest Before Slicing: Allowing your pot pie to rest for about 10-15 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve. Plus, it allows those flavors to meld even more!

How to Serve Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Serving your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie can be just as fun as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can create an inviting and festive presentation that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
• Vegan Sour Cream: A dollop of vegan sour cream on each slice adds creaminess and tang that complements the savory filling beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic are a classic side that pairs wonderfully with pot pies. They add comfort and warmth to your holiday spread.

• Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with maple syrup and balsamic vinegar, these sprouts caramelize beautifully in the oven, adding a sweet and savory element alongside your pot pie.

• Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pot pie. It’s a holiday staple that brightens up every plate.

• Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds offer both crunch and nutrition. They are light yet flavorful, making them a perfect balance to heavier dishes.

With these serving suggestions, your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie will be an unforgettable centerpiece at your holiday table! Enjoy this cozy dish while surrounded by family and friends—it’s sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is a fantastic option for meal prep, making it perfect for busy holiday seasons or cozy weeknights. You can prepare it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy the delightful flavors whenever you’re ready!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pot pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, make sure the pot pie is completely cooled.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through; this usually takes about 25-30 minutes.
• If reheating individual slices, the microwave works too—heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes or until warmed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

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

Yes! You can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use a gluten-free pie crust to create a delicious gluten-free version.

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

You can substitute vegan heavy cream with blended silken tofu or coconut cream for a creamy texture without using dairy.

How long does it take to prepare the Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie?

The total prep and cook time is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. Perfect for a delicious holiday main dish!

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

Absolutely! This recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage instructions above!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in pie form that brings friends and family together during special occasions. Remember, cooking should be fun and fulfilling—don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients! Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and love as you prepare this delightful holiday dish.