Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that brings family and friends together, this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is just the ticket! It’s a comforting classic that’s perfect for chilly autumn evenings or festive gatherings. What makes this recipe special is the savory stuffing layer on top, which adds a delightful twist to traditional pot pie. Plus, it’s entirely plant-based, making it suitable for everyone at the table. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving something hearty on a busy weeknight, this pot pie will warm your heart.

This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, letting you spend more time enjoying the company of loved ones and less time in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting flavors: The combination of chick’n, veggies, and savory stuffing creates a mouthwatering experience that feels like a warm hug.
• Family-friendly appeal: Even those who aren’t vegan will love digging into this hearty dish. It’s packed with flavors that everyone can enjoy!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the filling and stuffing in advance, making it easy to pop into the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a regular night at home, this pot pie fits right in.
• Flexible ingredients: Feel free to get creative with seasonal vegetables or your favorite stuffing recipes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! For this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie, you’ll find everything you need right in your grocery store or pantry.

For the Pie

• 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

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 things about this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If you prefer tofu or tempeh over chick’n pieces, feel free to use them instead. Just make sure they are well-seasoned!
• Add different veggies: Try incorporating mushrooms, green beans, or sweet potatoes for added texture and flavor.
• Change up the herbs: If thyme isn’t your favorite, rosemary or sage can add a lovely aroma that complements the dish beautifully.
• Top with mashed potatoes: Instead of stuffing as a topping, use creamy mashed potatoes for an even heartier version!

How to Make Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. If you’re using a store-bought crust, you can take it out of the freezer now. If you’re making your own crust from scratch, ensure it’s well chilled before rolling it out. Having everything ready makes the cooking process much smoother!

Step 2: Cook Your Chick’n Pieces

Before adding them to your filling, cook those chick’n pieces separately. This step prevents them from becoming too mushy in the pot pie. I love using my air fryer for that crispy texture, but pan-frying works great too. A little seasoning here can elevate their flavor even more!

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the vegan butter and add in your chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until they become translucent – this step brings out their natural sweetness! Then toss in your diced carrots and celery. Cook until they are slightly tender.

Step 4: Make the Filling

Sprinkle in flour while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Gradually add vegetable broth while continuing to stir until thickened. Next up is adding those cooked chick’n pieces along with frozen peas and seasonings like salt, pepper, and thyme leaves. Finally, stir in vegan heavy cream for that rich texture we all love!

Step 5: Assemble Your Pot Pie

Pour your delicious filling into the pie crust then top it off with prepared stuffing (do not bake beforehand). Spread it evenly over the filling – this is where all that flavor comes from as it bakes together!

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place your assembled pot pie inside. Bake it for about 40 minutes or until golden brown on top. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Once done baking, let it cool slightly before serving so you don’t burn yourself on that delicious filling!

Enjoy sharing this delightful Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Creating the perfect Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie can be a delightful experience, and these tips will ensure your dish turns out both delicious and satisfying!

• Pre-cook your filling: Cooking the vegetables and chick’n separately ensures they maintain their texture and flavor. This step prevents them from becoming overly mushy in the pot pie.

• Season generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning your filling! Adding herbs like thyme or even a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the overall flavor profile, making each bite delightful.

• Let the stuffing cool: If you prepare your stuffing ahead of time, allowing it to cool before adding it to the pot pie helps prevent excess moisture, which could make the crust soggy.

• Use a deep dish: A deeper pie dish provides ample space for all those delicious fillings. It also allows for a thicker layer of stuffing on top, creating that comforting texture we all love.

• Brush with plant-based milk: For a beautiful golden crust, brush the edges with a splash of plant-based milk just before baking. This simple trick gives your pot pie an enticing finish!

How to Serve Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Serving your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is just as fun as making it! Consider presenting it family-style on a festive table or plated individually for an elegant touch. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience:

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
• Vegan sour cream: A dollop of vegan sour cream adds creaminess and enhances the savory richness of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy bites add a lovely crunch and earthy flavor that complements the pot pie beautifully.
• Maple-glazed carrots: Sweet yet savory, these vibrant carrots bring a pop of color and flavor that harmonizes perfectly with your main dish.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy and comforting, mashed potatoes are a classic holiday side that pair wonderfully with the rich filling of the pot pie.
• Cranberry sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors in your pot pie, enhancing every bite.

Enjoy this heartwarming dish surrounded by loved ones, and feel free to get creative with your garnishes and sides! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal with minimal effort on busy days.

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

• Cool the pot pie completely before freezing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. For best results, label with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 30-40 minutes until heated through.
• If reheating from the fridge, bake for about 20-25 minutes until warm.

FAQs

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

Can I use other vegetables in my Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like green beans, mushrooms, or corn—whatever your heart desires!

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

To achieve a flaky crust, keep your ingredients cool and handle the dough as little as possible. Chilling your pie crust before baking also helps!

Can I make Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge before baking, and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve!

What can I serve with Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie?

This pot pie pairs beautifully with a side salad or some roasted veggies. It’s perfect for adding those extra holiday flavors!

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is truly special—combining comfort food vibes with a festive twist! I hope you find joy in making this dish and sharing it with loved ones. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate without compromising on taste or values. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!