Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that feels like a big hug during the holidays, then you’ve come to the right place! This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and festivities. Each bite of this pot pie, topped with savory stuffing, brings back memories of family gatherings, cozy evenings, and the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight dinner or an elaborate holiday feast, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table!

What makes this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie truly special is its ability to bring people together. Imagine serving a golden-brown pie filled with hearty chick’n pieces and fresh veggies, all encased in a flaky crust. It’s the kind of recipe that sparks conversations and creates lasting memories.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this delicious pot pie ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this hearty dish; it’s perfect for picky eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the filling and stuffing ahead of time, making dinner stress-free when the holiday rush hits.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of savory veggies, creamy sauce, and fluffy stuffing is simply irresistible.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: While it shines at Thanksgiving, this pot pie is delightful any day of the year!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are wholesome and easy to work with. This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie uses simple components to create layers of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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

One of the best parts about this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is how flexible it is! You can easily make adjustments based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use lentils or chickpeas instead of chick’n pieces for a different texture.
• Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in mushrooms, green beans, or even sweet potatoes for added nutrition.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with fresh rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a unique flavor twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute with gluten-free flour and use a gluten-free pie crust for an allergen-friendly option.

How to Make Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Crust

If you’re using a store-bought crust, grab it from the freezer so it’s ready for baking. If you’re going homemade, make sure it’s well chilled before rolling it out. A chilled crust will help keep its shape during baking.

Step 2: Cook Your Stuffing

Prepare your stuffing according to my recipe or if using store-bought stuffing mix, follow those instructions but let it cool after preparation. This ensures that it holds its structure when baked atop your pot pie.

Step 3: Sauté Your Veggies

In a large pan over medium heat, melt the vegan butter and add your chopped onions. Sauté until they are translucent; this caramelization brings out their natural sweetness. Next, add in your garlic, carrots, celery, salt, pepper, thyme leaves along with flour. Stir well until everything is coated.

Step 4: Create the Filling

Gradually pour in your vegetable broth while stirring constantly until thickened. Then add in your cooked chick’n pieces and peas along with vegan heavy cream. Mix until everything is well combined; this creamy filling is what dreams are made of!

Step 5: Assemble Your Pie

Pour your delicious filling into your prepared pie crust. Top generously with your cooled stuffing mixture—this will create a delightful contrast once baked!

Step 6: Bake It To Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 40 minutes or until golden brown on top. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be impossible to resist! Allow it to cool slightly before slicing into this beauty.

Now you’re all set to enjoy some hearty comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Creating the perfect Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is all about attention to detail and a little love in the kitchen. Here are some tips to ensure your pot pie comes out delicious and satisfying!

• Choose the Right Chick’n: Opt for a high-quality vegan chick’n that holds its texture well during cooking. This ensures that each bite is hearty and flavorful rather than mushy.

• Don’t Rush the Cooling Process: Allow your stuffing to cool before adding it to the pie. This prevents excess moisture from making the crust soggy and helps maintain that delightful flaky texture.

• Season Generously: Feel free to add extra herbs or spices to your filling. A bit of sage or rosemary can enhance the holiday flavors, making every bite feel festive.

• Check the Crust: If you’re using a store-bought pie crust, double-check its vegan status. Some brands may use non-vegan ingredients, so it’s always best to read labels before purchasing.

• Let It Rest Before Serving: After baking, let your pot pie sit for about 10-15 minutes before cutting into it. This resting period helps the filling set up and makes slicing much easier!

How to Serve Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Serving your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie can be just as delightful as preparing it! Consider these ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully at your holiday table.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the pot pie.
• Vegan Sour Cream: A dollop on top provides a creamy contrast and complements the savory filling beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery (using vegan butter), these mashed potatoes are a classic side that pairs perfectly with the flavor-packed pot pie.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and sea salt, these sprouts become caramelized and crispy in the oven, adding a crunchy texture that balances out your meal.

• Cranberry Sauce: A sweet-tart cranberry sauce can provide a refreshing bite that cuts through the richness of the pot pie, making each forkful even more enjoyable.

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast that brings balance to your plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie will not only be delicious but also an eye-catching centerpiece at any holiday gathering! Enjoy every moment spent with loved ones around this delightful dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is not only a feast for the eyes but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time, saving you precious moments on the big day. Plus, the flavors meld beautifully when stored, making it even more delicious!

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, ensure the pot pie is completely cooled.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe airtight container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes from frozen or 15-20 minutes if thawed.
• If reheating individual slices, you can also use the microwave for convenience, but be aware that this may make the crust less crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuffing in advance and assemble your pie just before baking. This will save you time on Thanksgiving Day.

What is a good substitute for vegan heavy cream in Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie?

You can use canned coconut milk or a homemade cashew cream as excellent substitutes for vegan heavy cream. Both options will give your pot pie a rich and creamy texture.

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

When stored properly, your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie can last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s well covered!

Can I freeze Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie?

Yes! This pot pie freezes wonderfully. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before wrapping it tightly and placing it in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is truly special—it’s warm, comforting, and bursting with flavors that everyone will love. I hope you enjoy making this delightful dish as much as I do! Gather your loved ones around the table and celebrate with a meal that’s both hearty and kind. Happy cooking!