Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that brings the warmth of the holidays to your table, then this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is just what you need. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a crust! This recipe has become a beloved favorite in my home, perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet delicious. The combination of hearty veggies and savory stuffing makes this pot pie a true showstopper.

What I love most about this pot pie is how versatile it is. You can whip it up for Thanksgiving dinner or enjoy it on any chilly evening. Plus, the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes will have everyone eagerly awaiting dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This pot pie comes together quickly, making it perfect for even the busiest of days.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love digging into this hearty, flavorful dish, from kids to grandparents!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the filling in advance and assemble it right before baking, saving you time.
• Deliciously Flavorful: With fresh vegetables and savory stuffing, each bite is packed with flavor that comforts the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie uses simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Gather these goodies to create a satisfying meal!

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
• 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 wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use lentils or chickpeas instead of chick’n pieces for a different texture.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some green beans or corn for added color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like a kick, add some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
• Change the herbs: Experiment with rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a unique flavor twist.

How to Make Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Crust

If you are using a store-bought crust, there’s no need to thaw—just take it straight from the freezer! For homemade crusts, make sure it’s well chilled before use. A good crust is essential for holding all that delicious filling together.

Step 2: Cook the Veggies

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the vegan butter. Add in your onions and garlic first. Sauté them until they’re translucent; this step brings out their natural sweetness! Then add in your carrots and celery, cooking until they’re slightly softened—about 5 minutes should do. This combination creates a flavorful base for your filling.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Sprinkle flour over your sautéed veggies and stir to combine. This helps thicken your filling. Gradually whisk in vegetable broth until smooth. Add salt, pepper, thyme, chick’n pieces, peas, and vegan heavy cream. Stir everything together until it’s thickened nicely—this creamy mixture is what makes each bite so comforting!

Step 4: Assemble Your Pie

Pour your filling into the prepared pie crust. Top generously with your vegan stuffing—this adds another layer of flavor and crunch! Spread it evenly across the top so every bite has that tasty stuffing goodness.

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake your pot pie for about 40 minutes or until golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it; if the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil. Once baked, let it cool slightly before serving—it’ll be hard to resist diving right in!

Now you have a delightful Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie ready to serve! Enjoy every comforting bite with family and friends at your next gathering!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Creating the perfect Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is all about attention to detail and a few handy tips. Here are some pro tips to ensure your pot pie shines on your holiday table!

• Use a chilled pie crust: A well-chilled crust will help create a flakier texture, while also preventing it from shrinking during baking. If you’re using a store-bought option, keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.

• Cook chick’n separately: To avoid soggy filling, cooking your vegan chick’n pieces separately ensures they retain their texture and flavor. This extra step can make all the difference in the final dish.

• Let stuffing cool before layering: Cooling the stuffing will prevent steam from making the pot pie soggy. Plus, it helps maintain its structure when you layer it.

• Season your filling generously: Don’t shy away from adding spices and herbs to your filling! A little extra seasoning can elevate the dish and make those flavors pop, ensuring a delicious experience with every bite.

• Cover edges with foil: If you notice that the edges of your crust are browning too quickly, gently cover them with aluminum foil. This will prevent burning while allowing the rest of the pie to bake through nicely.

How to Serve Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Presenting your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie can be just as enjoyable as making it! Consider these serving ideas to delight your guests and enhance the overall dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a vibrant color and fresh flavor that complements the savory filling beautifully.
• Vegan sour cream: A dollop of vegan sour cream on top brings a creamy tanginess that contrasts wonderfully with the warm pot pie.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper, these crispy Brussels sprouts provide a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich pot pie.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic are classic comfort food that makes for a cozy side dish alongside your pot pie.
• Cranberry sauce: The sweet-tart balance of cranberry sauce enhances flavors in savory dishes, making it an excellent accompaniment for this festive meal.
• Autumn salad: A mixed greens salad topped with apples, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette offers freshness and crunch that rounds out your holiday feast.

With these serving suggestions and tips in hand, your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is sure to be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every moment of sharing this delicious creation with loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it stores well for those busy holiday weeks or cozy family dinners.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pot pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the pot pie cool completely, then cover tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• It’s best to freeze before baking if you want the crust to remain flaky!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake for about 25-30 minutes until heated through. Cover with foil if the crust begins to brown too much.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie.

Can I use a different type of vegan protein instead of chick’n?

Absolutely! You can substitute chickpeas, lentils, or your favorite plant-based protein. Just ensure they are cooked and seasoned as per your taste.

What makes this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie special?

This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is special because it combines a comforting filling with a savory stuffing topping, making it a delightful centerpiece for any holiday table!

How do I know when my Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is done?

The pot pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. If you’re unsure, you can insert a knife into the center; it should come out hot.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use a gluten-free pie crust and swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The result will still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy creating this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie as much as I do! It’s more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort food that brings loved ones together. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish will surely warm hearts and bellies alike. Happy cooking, and may your holiday season be filled with joy and deliciousness!