Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

A delicious Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie brings together comfort and flavors in a festive dish that’s perfect for any holiday gathering. This vegan version features a rich filling topped with savory stuffing, making it an excellent alternative for those seeking plant-based options. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking to impress friends at a potluck, this dish will surely stand out on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting flavors: Enjoy the warm, hearty taste of classic pot pie without any animal products.
• Versatile option: Perfect as a main dish for Thanksgiving or any holiday celebration.
• Easy preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Crowd-pleaser: Delight both vegans and non-vegans alike with this comforting pot pie that everyone will adore.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the filling and stuffing in advance for an easy assembly when it’s time to bake.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Knife and cutting board: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Baking dish: Choose one that fits your pie crust perfectly for even cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time.

Ingredients

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

For the Crust

• 1 9-10” vegan pie crust, store bought or homemade

For the Filling

• 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

How to Make Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Crust

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

Step 2: Make the Stuffing

Prepare the stuffing according to my recipe or if using store-bought, follow package instructions. Allow it to cool completely before adding it on top of your pie.

Step 3: Cook the Chick’n Pieces

Cook the chick’n pieces separately to avoid them becoming too mushy in the filling. You can use an air fryer or pan fry them until golden brown. Optionally, season to taste before setting aside.

This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is sure to be a hit at your next gathering! With its creamy filling and crunchy stuffing topping, it’s a delightful way to celebrate with plant-based goodness.

How to Serve Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Serving your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie can create a delightful experience for you and your guests. With a few creative ideas, you can enhance the appeal of this comforting dish.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the hearty pot pie perfectly.

Enjoy with Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or squash add color and flavor to your meal.

Serve with Cranberry Sauce

• A side of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce provides a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the pot pie.

Accompany with Bread Rolls

• Soft bread rolls are great for sopping up any delicious filling that escapes from the pot pie.

Offer a Side of Gravy

• A rich vegan gravy can be drizzled over the pot pie or served on the side for added moisture and flavor.

How to Perfect Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Achieving the ideal Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie requires some attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time.

• Use a cold crust: If making homemade, ensure your pie crust is well-chilled before baking. This helps it maintain its structure and flakiness.
• Pre-cook your fillings: Cooking the chick’n pieces and vegetables beforehand prevents them from releasing too much moisture in the pie.
• Season generously: Don’t be shy with herbs and spices! Seasoning enhances flavors and makes each bite delicious.
• Check for doneness: Ensure the crust is golden brown and flaky before removing from the oven. This indicates that it’s cooked through.
• Let it rest: Allowing the pot pie to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps set the filling, making it easier to slice.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie elevates your holiday meal. Here are some perfect sides to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic are a classic comfort food that pairs well with pot pie.
2. Green Bean Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with almonds offer a delightful crunch alongside your savory dish.
3. Stuffed Acorn Squash: Roasted acorn squash stuffed with quinoa, cranberries, and nuts adds festive flair and nutrition to your plate.
4. Maple-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with maple syrup bring a touch of sweetness that balances savory flavors.
5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad loaded with veggies provides texture and complements the richness of the pot pie.
6. Sweet Potato Casserole: Creamy sweet potato casserole topped with crunchy pecans brings warmth and sweetness to your holiday spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using a soggy crust: Ensure your pie crust is well-chilled and prepped correctly. A soggy bottom can ruin the texture, so consider blind baking if needed.
• Overcooking the filling: When cooking chick’n pieces, avoid overcooking them in the filling. Cook them separately until just done to prevent a mushy texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t forget to season your filling adequately. Use salt, pepper, and herbs liberally for a flavorful pot pie.
• Skipping the cooling time for stuffing: If using prepared stuffing, allow it to cool before adding it to the pie. This prevents excess moisture from making the crust soggy.
• Not letting it rest before serving: Let your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This helps set the filling and makes slicing easier.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The pot pie can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie.

Can I make Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and crust in advance. Assemble and bake it closer to mealtime for freshness.

What can I substitute for chick’n pieces?

You can use cubed tofu or tempeh as an alternative protein source for your pot pie.

How do I ensure my pot pie is gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free pie crust and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Can I customize the vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or replace vegetables like green beans, corn, or mushrooms according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

The Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is not just delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for any holiday table or cozy dinner. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it truly yours. Don’t hesitate to give this comforting dish a try!