Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings warmth to the table, then this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is just what you need. Imagine a flaky crust filled with savory chick’n, vibrant veggies, and topped with hearty stuffing—it’s a showstopper for any gathering! This recipe is not only perfect for Thanksgiving but also makes for a cozy weeknight dinner or a delightful dish to share during family get-togethers. It truly captures the essence of comfort food while keeping things plant-based.

What makes this pot pie special is its ability to bring everyone together. Whether you’re hosting friends or just enjoying a meal at home, this dish will surely warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this delicious pot pie in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pot pie! Its comforting flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the filling ahead of time, making meal prep a breeze.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of chick’n, veggies, and stuffing creates a deliciously rich flavor that warms the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie uses simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. From the flaky crust to the savory filling, each ingredient plays an important role in creating this delightful 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 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

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 tempeh, seitan, or even lentils instead of chick’n for different flavors and textures.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some green beans, corn, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or sage to give your pot pie a unique twist.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.

How to Make Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Crust

If you’re using a store-bought crust, simply let it thaw. If you’re making your own, ensure it’s well chilled before rolling it out. A cold crust ensures that it bakes beautifully flaky!

Step 2: Prepare Your Stuffing

Cook your stuffing according to my recipe or follow package instructions if using store-bought. Let it cool slightly before using; this prevents it from getting too soggy when layered on top of your filling.

Step 3: Cook the Chick’n Pieces

Cook your chick’n separately from the filling. I love using an air fryer for that crispy texture, but pan-frying works great too! Cooking them first ensures they maintain their texture during baking. Season them as desired before setting aside.

Step 4: Sauté Your Veggies

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the vegan butter. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until everything is tender and fragrant—this step really brings out those lovely flavors!

Step 5: Create Your Filling

Sprinkle in the flour while stirring continuously—this thickens the mixture beautifully! Gradually add in vegetable broth and vegan heavy cream while stirring until smooth. Finally, fold in those cooked chick’n pieces and peas before seasoning with salt, pepper, and thyme.

Step 6: Assemble Your Pot Pie

Pour your filling into the prepared pie crust. Top generously with cooled stuffing—this creates a delicious layer that crisps up nicely in the oven!

Step 7: Bake!

Bake your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie in a preheated oven until golden brown on top—about 40 minutes should do it! Keep an eye on it towards the end so that it doesn’t over-bake.

And there you have it—a warm hug in pie form! Enjoy sharing this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie with loved ones around your table.

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Creating a delectable Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is easy, and with these simple tips, you’ll impress everyone at your holiday table!

• Chill the crust properly: If you’re making a homemade pie crust, ensure it’s well chilled before rolling it out. This helps maintain its flaky texture during baking.

• Cook chick’n pieces separately: Cooking the chick’n pieces ahead of time prevents them from getting mushy in the filling. This way, they retain their texture and flavor!

• Use fresh herbs: Adding fresh thyme or rosemary can elevate the taste of your pot pie. Fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor compared to dried ones and make your dish feel extra special.

• Let the filling cool slightly: Allowing your filling to cool down before adding it to the crust helps prevent sogginess. A warm filling can steam the crust while baking.

• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings according to your preferences! A pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika can add an unexpected depth of flavor to your pot pie.

How to Serve Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Serving this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary dishes. Here are some delightful ideas to enhance your holiday feast!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness on top of your pot pie, making it visually appealing.
• Vegan sour cream: A dollop of vegan sour cream drizzled over each slice brings a creamy tang that balances out the savory flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and sea salt, roasted Brussels sprouts offer a crispy texture and earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the pot pie’s richness.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes made with vegan butter and garlic create a comforting side that complements every bite of your pot pie.
• Cranberry sauce: The sweet-tart flavor of homemade cranberry sauce adds a festive touch and enhances the savory notes of the pot pie.
• Green bean almondine: Sautéed green beans tossed with toasted almonds provide a delightful crunch and freshness that brighten up the meal.

With these serving suggestions, your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie will not only taste delicious but also look stunning on your holiday table! Enjoy creating wonderful memories around this comforting dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is an excellent choice for meal prep, making it a breeze to enjoy a delicious holiday dinner without the last-minute rush. You can prepare components in advance and store them properly to enjoy this comforting dish any time!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pot pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the pot pie cool completely.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Note: It’s best to freeze before baking, if possible.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the pot pie with foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.
• For frozen pot pie, remove the foil and bake straight from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 50-60 minutes, until hot and bubbly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you may have about making this delightful dish!

Can I make Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all components in advance and store them separately. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready.

What can I use instead of chick’n pieces in Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie?

You can substitute chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein such as lentils or tofu for a different texture while keeping the flavors delicious.

How do I ensure my Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie crust is flaky?

Make sure your butter is cold when mixing into the flour. Additionally, don’t overwork the dough; handle it gently for a flaky texture.

Can I add more vegetables to my Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie?

Definitely! Feel free to add any seasonal veggies like green beans, sweet potatoes, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is more than just a meal; it’s a cozy gathering of flavors that embodies the spirit of togetherness during the holiday season. I hope you find joy in making this recipe and sharing it with loved ones. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget—there’s always room for a second helping!