Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

If you’re looking for a dish that embodies the warmth and comfort of the holidays, this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is just what you need! It’s hearty, delicious, and perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. This recipe has a special place in my heart because it combines the traditional flavors of Thanksgiving with a vegan twist, making it suitable for everyone at your table. Plus, who can resist a flaky crust topped with savory stuffing? It’s truly a crowd-pleaser!

Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself to some comforting food, this pot pie will make your kitchen smell heavenly. The combination of vegan chick’n, fresh veggies, and creamy filling will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This pot pie comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good pot pie! Kids and adults alike will enjoy digging into this warm, comforting meal.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare some components in advance. Just assemble the pie when you’re ready to bake!
• Flavorful Comfort Food: With its rich filling and crispy topping, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings while being completely plant-based.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients makes cooking even more enjoyable! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie:

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)
• 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! Feel free to get creative with different ingredients based on your preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using lentils or mushrooms instead of chick’n for a different texture and flavor.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some corn or green beans for added color and nutrition.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free pie crust and cornstarch in place of flour to keep this dish accessible for everyone.

How to Make Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Crust

First things first: if you’re using a store-bought crust, there’s no need to thaw it—just pop it out of the freezer. If you’re going homemade (which I highly recommend!), ensure your dough is well chilled before rolling it out. A nice cold crust helps achieve that beautiful flaky texture we all love!

Step 2: Cook Your Stuffing

Prepare your stuffing according to my recipe—or if you’re short on time, go with a packaged version. Just remember not to bake it yet; we’ll be layering it on top of our pot pie later. Let it cool while you work on the filling.

Step 3: Cook the Chick’n Pieces

In another pan or air fryer, cook those chick’n pieces until they’re golden brown. Cooking them separately is key—they’ll retain their texture better than if they simmered directly in the filling. If you’d like, feel free to sprinkle on some seasoning for an extra flavor boost!

Now that everything is prepped, you’re ready to combine these tasty ingredients into one fulfilling dish!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Making a perfect Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is all about attention to detail and a bit of love! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your pot pie turns out delicious every time.

• Choose the right crust: A flaky, well-made crust is essential for a great pot pie. If you’re using store-bought, look for one labeled vegan and avoid those with artificial flavors or preservatives.

• Don’t skip the seasoning: Enhance the flavors of your filling by seasoning it well. Adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage not only boosts taste but also brings that comforting holiday aroma.

• Let the filling cool slightly: After cooking the filling, let it cool before adding it to the crust. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy and ensures a crispy texture when baked.

• Use a mix of vegetables: While carrots and peas are classic choices, feel free to add other veggies like green beans or corn for extra color and nutrition.

• Cover with foil if browning too fast: If you notice your pot pie is browning too quickly during baking, gently cover it with aluminum foil. This will help cook the filling without burning the crust.

How to Serve Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Serving your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie can be just as delightful as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can create a beautiful presentation that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or thyme on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Vegan sour cream: A dollop of vegan sour cream on each slice provides creaminess and a tangy contrast to the savory filling.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs perfectly with pot pie.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until caramelized, these sprouts add a delicious crunch and earthy flavor.
• Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce complements the savory pie beautifully, providing a sweet balance that enhances every bite.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with seasonal greens tossed in vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pot pie.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie will be not only delicious but also beautifully presented, making your holiday gathering even more special! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for busy holiday weeks. You can prepare it in advance and enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving without the last-minute rush.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the pot pie to cool completely.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the frozen pot pie in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the pot pie with aluminum foil and heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuffing in advance and assemble the pie. Just bake it fresh on the day you plan to serve it for the best results.

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

You can use coconut cream or a mixture of plant-based milk with a little cornstarch or flour as a thickener. This will still give you that creamy texture without compromising on flavor.

How do I adjust this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie for gluten-free diets?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use a gluten-free pie crust. Ensure that your stuffing is also gluten-free if you’re using packaged varieties.

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

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like mushrooms, green beans, or corn to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your pot pie.

How long does this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie last in the fridge?

When stored properly, this pot pie will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Just remember to cover it well!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie! It’s not only a delicious addition to your holiday spread but also a comforting dish that brings everyone together. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experiences! Happy cooking!