Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your home with the delightful scents of the holidays, you’ve come to the right place! This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is not only a comforting meal but also a great way to gather loved ones around the table. The rich filling, combined with a savory stuffing topping, makes this pot pie a standout for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.

What truly makes this recipe special is its ability to bring everyone together. It’s hearty, satisfying, and completely plant-based, ensuring that everyone can enjoy it without compromise. Trust me; once you try this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie, it will become a cherished favorite in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This pot pie comes together quickly, making it perfect for those busy days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors and creamy texture. It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the pot pie when you’re ready to bake. Perfect for holiday meal prep!
• Delicious Flavor: Packed with wholesome ingredients and herbs, each bite is bursting with flavor. Your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather everything we need for this delightful dish!

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 into 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 wonderful things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it according to your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using lentils or mushrooms instead of chick’n for a different texture and flavor.
• Add more veggies: Toss in your favorite vegetables like green beans or corn for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add some cayenne pepper or paprika if you like a little kick in your pot pie!
• Change the herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for a unique twist.

How to Make Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Crust

If you’re using a store-bought crust, there’s no need to thaw it—just grab it from the freezer when you’re ready! If you’re making your own crust, ensure it’s well chilled before rolling it out. A cold crust helps create that flaky texture we all love.

Step 2: Make Your Stuffing

Prepare your stuffing according to my recipe or use store-bought if you’re short on time. Just make sure it’s cooled before adding it on top of the finished pot pie. This step is crucial so that your stuffing doesn’t become mushy during baking.

Step 3: Cook the Chick’n Pieces

Cook your chick’n pieces separately from the filling. I recommend using an air fryer for that crispy texture, but pan-frying works wonders too! Avoid cooking them directly in the filling; otherwise, they might become too soft. Once they’re nice and golden brown, set them aside.

Now that we have our ingredients ready and our steps outlined, get excited because you’re just moments away from enjoying this delightful Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Creating the perfect Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie can be an enjoyable experience, and with a few handy tips, you can ensure it turns out delicious every time!

• Choose the Right Pie Crust: If you opt for a store-bought crust, make sure it’s vegan-friendly. A flaky crust will provide a delightful contrast to the savory filling.

• Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Even though vegan chick’n pieces are flavorful, adding your own spices can enhance the dish. A sprinkle of herbs or spices while cooking helps build depth in flavor.

• Let Stuffing Cool Before Adding: If using homemade stuffing, allow it to cool before layering on top of the pie. This prevents moisture from making the crust soggy and keeps everything perfectly textured.

• Check Your Filling Consistency: The filling should be thick but not dry. If it’s too runny, consider adding a bit more flour or letting it simmer longer to thicken up before pouring into the crust.

• Cover Edges of the Crust: To prevent overbrowning, use strips of aluminum foil to cover the edges of your crust during baking. This way, you’ll have a beautifully golden pie without burnt edges.

How to Serve Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie

Serving your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is just as important as making it! Presenting this hearty dish can make your holiday table shine with warmth and comfort.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or thyme on top right before serving for a burst of freshness and color.
• Vegan Sour Cream: A dollop on each slice adds creaminess that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Crispy Onions: Scatter some crispy fried onions over the top for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic pair perfectly with pot pie, making each bite even more comforting.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor that balances well with the rich filling of the pot pie.
• Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce provides a sweet-and-sour element that cuts through the savory richness beautifully.
• Green Bean Casserole: This classic side brings a creamy texture and earthy flavor that complements your pot pie wonderfully.

Embrace these ideas and make your Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie not just a meal but an entire experience filled with joy and celebration! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it, making your holiday cooking a breeze. Here’s how to keep your delicious pot pie fresh and flavorful.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the pot pie cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. For best results, freeze before baking.

Reheating

• For refrigerated pot pie, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any plastic wrap and cover with foil. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.
• If reheating from frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, removing the foil for the last 15 minutes.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries that may help you out.

Can I make Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and pie crust separately, assemble them, and then store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What can I use instead of chick’n pieces in Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie?

You can substitute chick’n pieces with diced mushrooms or lentils for a hearty flavor. Just make sure they’re cooked before adding them to the filling!

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

Your leftover Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days when stored properly.

Can I freeze my Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie?

Yes! It’s best to freeze it before baking. Just wrap it well and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Vegan Thanksgiving Pot Pie becomes a cherished dish at your holiday table! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings everyone together. Enjoy making this comforting delight, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!