Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is the perfect dish to elevate your holiday table. This comforting meal features a flaky crust and a savory filling that brings together tender vegetables and hearty vegan chick’n. Ideal for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering, this dish is both delicious and satisfying. Its unique twist on traditional pot pie makes it a standout choice for vegans and non-vegans alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of herbs, spices, and creamy vegan ingredients creates a rich taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, making this pot pie is straightforward, even for beginners.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course for Thanksgiving, but also great for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
• Healthier Alternative: Packed with vegetables and plant-based proteins, this recipe offers a nutritious option without sacrificing flavor.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown crust topped with stuffing looks beautiful on any table, making it a showstopper.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having the right equipment will make all the difference in achieving that perfect pot pie.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Skillet
• Baking dish
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out your pie crust evenly, ensuring it bakes uniformly.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables and cooking the chick’n pieces to enhance their flavors.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining filling ingredients without mess.

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 from frozen. If using homemade, make sure it’s well chilled.

Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing

Prepare the stuffing according to my recipe or if using store bought, prepare and let cool.

Step 3: Cook the Chick’n Pieces

Cook the chick’n pieces separately (cooking them directly in the filling might make them too mushy). I cooked mine in the air fryer but you could pan fry them as well. If you want to season them a little, feel free. Set aside.

Now you’re ready to assemble your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie! Follow the remaining steps to complete this delightful dish.

How to Serve Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is a comforting dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Use a variety of leafy greens topped with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.
• Cranberry Spinach Salad: Combine fresh spinach with dried cranberries, walnuts, and a tangy dressing for a festive touch.

Add Festive Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for an extra layer of flavor.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft vegan dinner rolls can complement the richness of the pot pie perfectly.

Enhance with Sauces

• Vegan Gravy: Drizzle warm vegan gravy over each slice for added moisture and flavor.
• Hot Sauce: Provide hot sauce for those who enjoy a little kick with their meal.

Include Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal Roasted Veggies: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes add crunch and color to your plate.

Finish with a Sweet Treat

• Pumpkin Pie: A classic dessert that ties in beautifully with the Thanksgiving theme.
• Apple Crisp: Warm apple crisp topped with vegan ice cream makes for a delightful end to your meal.

How to Perfect Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Creating the perfect Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie involves attention to detail and skillful preparation. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Use a Quality Crust: A flaky, well-made crust can make all the difference in texture and taste.
• Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Slightly undercook vegetables before adding them to the filling; they will continue cooking in the oven.
• Season Well: Season each component separately to build layers of flavor throughout the pie.
• Avoid Soggy Bottoms: Pre-bake the crust slightly before adding the filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.
• Let It Rest: Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps set the filling for cleaner slices.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add herbs or spices according to your taste preferences for more personalized flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and warmth.
2. Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed with almonds offer a crunchy texture and vibrant color.
3. Stuffed Acorn Squash: Roasted acorn squash filled with quinoa and cranberries adds sweetness and nutrition.
4. Maple-Glazed Carrots: Carrots glazed in maple syrup bring sweetness that complements savory flavors beautifully.
5. Sweet Potato Casserole: Topped with vegan marshmallows or pecans, this dish adds a festive touch to your table.
6. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with veggies and lemon dressing brings brightness to your plate.
7. Cranberry Sauce: Homemade cranberry sauce provides tartness that balances out rich dishes like pot pie.
8. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts drizzled in balsamic glaze make for an excellent side dish option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie can be exciting, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using a soggy crust: Ensure your pie crust is well-chilled before use. A warm crust can become soggy when filled with the filling.
• Overcooking the filling: Cook the chick’n pieces separately to avoid mushiness. This helps maintain their texture in the pot pie.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your filling adequately. A touch of salt and spices enhances flavor significantly.
• Adding too much liquid: Be cautious with the amount of broth and cream. Too much can lead to a soupy pot pie rather than a hearty one.
• Neglecting to cool stuffing: If using store-bought stuffing, let it cool before adding it on top. This prevents steam from making the crust soggy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a single slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, covered, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie?

A Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is a plant-based version of traditional pot pie, filled with chick’n, vegetables, and topped with savory stuffing.

How do I make my Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pie crust and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in the filling.

Can I customize the filling of my Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like mushrooms or green beans, or substitute chick’n with lentils for variety.

How long does it take to prepare this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie?

The total time for preparation and cooking is about 1 hour and 10 minutes, making it relatively quick for a holiday dish.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it easily by adding different veggies or herbs according to your taste. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just craving comfort food, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table!