Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your holiday table. This savory pot pie features a delicious filling of chick’n, vegetables, and creamy sauce, all topped with a layer of savory stuffing. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a cozy family meal, this vegan alternative is sure to impress everyone with its rich flavors and hearty texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of chick’n, fresh vegetables, and herbs creates a mouthwatering filling you’ll crave.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can have this pot pie ready in just over an hour.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for Thanksgiving, this pot pie can be enjoyed year-round as a comforting main course.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Serving 8 generous portions makes it an ideal choice for family dinners and gatherings.
• Plant-Based Goodness: Enjoy all the flavors of traditional pot pie while keeping it vegan-friendly.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie, you’ll need a few essential tools to simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Large skillet
• Baking dish
• Pastry brush (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining the filling ingredients evenly.
• Large skillet: This tool allows for sautéing the vegetables effectively while ensuring they cook evenly.
• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish holds everything together while baking and makes serving easy.

Ingredients

A delicious vegan version of pot pie topped with savory stuffing!

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(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

How to Make Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Crust

1. If using a store-bought crust, you can use it directly from frozen.
2. If making a homemade crust, ensure it’s well chilled before rolling out.

Step 2: Make the Stuffing

1. Prepare the stuffing according to my recipe or if using store-bought, prepare it as directed.
2. Let the stuffing cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Cook the Chick’n Pieces

1. Cook the chick’n pieces separately as cooking them directly in the filling might make them too mushy.
2. You can cook them in an air fryer for crispiness or pan fry them until golden brown.
3. Optional: Season them lightly during cooking for extra flavor.

Set aside once cooked.

Now you’re ready to assemble your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie! Follow the next steps to combine all these wonderful ingredients into a comforting meal.

How to Serve Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Serving Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is an opportunity to create a delightful and festive meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides, sauces, and garnishes that enhance its rich flavors.

With a Side Salad

• A fresh garden salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette complements the savory pot pie. The crunch of the vegetables balances the creamy filling.

Drizzled with Gravy

• Adding a drizzle of vegan gravy on top brings extra moisture and flavor. Use homemade or store-bought options for convenience.

Accompanied by Cranberry Sauce

• A spoonful of tart cranberry sauce adds a sweet contrast to the savory pie. It offers a traditional touch to your holiday table.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your pot pie with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for an aromatic finish. This simple addition elevates the presentation and flavor profile.

Served with Bread Rolls

• Soft vegan dinner rolls on the side provide an excellent way to soak up any leftover filling or gravy. They make for a hearty addition to your meal.

How to Perfect Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Creating the perfect Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie involves a few key tips that ensure great taste and texture.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and high-quality vegan chick’n for the best flavor.
• Pre-cook Chick’n Pieces: Cooking chick’n separately helps maintain its texture, preventing it from becoming mushy in the filling.
• Season Generously: Enhance flavors by adjusting seasoning according to your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to add more herbs or spices.
• Let Stuffing Cool: Allow your stuffing to cool before placing it on top of the pie. This prevents excess moisture from making the crust soggy.
• Use a Well-Chilled Crust: A chilled crust helps achieve a flaky texture when baked. If you’re using homemade dough, keep it in the fridge until ready to use.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

To complement your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie, consider serving it alongside these delicious side dishes that enhance your holiday feast.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes made without dairy create a smooth and comforting side that pairs perfectly with pot pie.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Tossed in olive oil and garlic, these crispy Brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor.
3. Maple Glazed Carrots
   Sweet carrots glazed with maple syrup bring out their natural sweetness while adding vibrant color to your plate.
4. Green Bean Almondine
   Lightly sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds offer both texture and flavor, making them an elegant choice.
5. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad with seasonal vegetables provides protein and fiber while enhancing the meal’s overall nutrition.
6. Sweet Potato Casserole
   Creamy sweet potatoes topped with crunchy pecans create a sweet contrast that complements savory dishes beautifully.
7. Baked Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices can be a hearty addition that feels festive and satisfying.
8. Vegan Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots dressed in a tangy vegan mayo adds brightness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Using a soggy crust: Ensure your pie crust is well-chilled before baking. This helps maintain its texture and prevents sogginess from the filling.
• Overcooking the chick’n: If you cook the chick’n pieces directly in the filling, they may become mushy. Cook them separately and add them to the filling later for better texture.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your filling adequately. Use herbs and spices like thyme, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor of your pot pie.
• Not letting the stuffing cool: If you use hot stuffing directly in the pie, it can affect the baking time and texture. Allow it to cool first for optimal results.
• Failing to check for doneness: Always check that your pot pie is golden brown on top and heated through before serving. This ensures a deliciously baked dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator; ensure it is cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

• You can freeze unbaked or baked pot pie; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
• It can be stored for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 25-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 10 minutes or until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie, here are some frequently asked questions:

What makes this a Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie?

This pot pie is made without any animal products, using vegan chick’n, plant-based butter, and vegetable broth to create a delicious filling that everyone can enjoy.

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

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like mushrooms or green beans or even switch out chick’n for another protein like lentils or quinoa based on your preference.

How do I prevent my pot pie from being too watery?

To avoid excess moisture, make sure all vegetables are cooked properly before adding them to the filling. Using a thickening agent like flour also helps absorb any extra liquid.

Can I use store-bought stuffing for my pot pie?

Yes! Store-bought vegan stuffing works well. Just prepare it according to package instructions and let it cool before adding it on top of your pie.

Final Thoughts

The Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is not only hearty but also versatile, allowing you to customize with various vegetables or proteins. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Try this recipe today and impress your family with a delightful vegan twist on a classic dish!