As the last leaves of autumn flutter to the ground, I find myself reminiscing about the warmth of Thanksgiving gatherings. Every year, I draw inspiration from the vibrant tapestry of flavors that adorn the holiday table. This year, in a moment of culinary creativity, I transformed those cherished leftovers into something truly special: Thanksgiving Leftover Hand Pies. Imagine the flaky crust that encloses a delightful medley of savory turkey, rich stuffing, and a touch of tangy cranberry sauce, all baked to golden perfection. These hand pies are not just a clever way to claim victory over excess turkey; they’re a playful nod to resourceful cooking that ensures every bite feels like a celebration. Whether you’re hurriedly packing lunch or whipping up a snack to satisfy post-feast cravings, these delicious pies are as effortless to make as they are impressive to serve. Let’s dive into this simple, hands-on recipe that captures the essence of Thanksgiving in every crispy bite!
Why are Thanksgiving Leftover Hand Pies a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavors: Each bite brings together classic Thanksgiving tastes—savory turkey, flavorful stuffing, and sweet cranberry sauce wrapped in a flaky crust.
Hassle-Free Cooking: No need to make dough from scratch; using ready-made pie crust makes this recipe quick and easy!
Meal Versatility: Perfect for lunch, snacks, or appetizers, these hand pies cater to any occasion.
No Leftovers Wasted: A delightful solution for transforming your holiday extras into gourmet treats and minimizing waste.
Fun for Everyone: Easy to make and customizable, it allows the whole family to join in the fun of filling and folding!
Thanksgiving Leftover Hand Pies Ingredients
Transform your holiday leftovers into a delightful feast!
For the Crust
- Ready-made frozen pie crust – This provides a flaky base and saves time; you can also use homemade crust if you enjoy baking.
For the Filling
- Leftover turkey – A hearty source of protein; any cooked poultry will work perfectly here.
- Stuffing – Adds incredible flavor and texture; use whatever leftover stuffing you enjoyed during the feast.
- Cranberry sauce – Offers a delightful sweetness and a touch of tang; both fresh and canned options are ideal.
For the Finish
- Egg (for egg wash) – This creates a beautiful golden-brown crust; you can substitute it with milk or a non-dairy alternative if preferred.
How to Make Thanksgiving Leftover Hand Pies
- Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the pie crust package, usually around 425°F. This ensures a perfectly baked base for your hand pies. - Roll Out the Crust:
Take your ready-made frozen pie crust and roll it out gently on a clean surface. Use a mold or round cutter to create shapes, or cut rectangles, depending on your preference for the hand pies. - Layer the Filling:
On one half of each cut-out shape, layer your leftover turkey, stuffing, and a spoonful of cranberry sauce. Keep the filling toward the center to allow for sealing later. - Fold and Seal:
Carefully fold the other half of the crust over the filling, creating a pocket. Press the edges together firmly and crimp them with a fork to ensure a good seal and prevent any delicious filling from leaking out during baking. - Brush with Egg Wash:
Lightly brush the tops of each hand pie with the egg wash (or milk) to give them a lovely, shiny finish. This step is essential for achieving that enticing golden-brown crust. - Bake to Perfection:
Place your hand pies on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven until they are golden brown and flaky, usually about 20-25 minutes. Keep a close eye toward the end of the baking time to ensure they don’t over-bake.
Optional: Serve warm with a side of gravy or extra cranberry sauce for dipping to enhance the flavors.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Leftover Hand Pies
Fridge: Store cooled hand pies in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they remain fresh and flaky for your enjoyment.
Freezer: Wrap each hand pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. This way, you’ll have a quick snack ready whenever hunger strikes!
Reheating: For best results, reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Enjoy your Thanksgiving leftover hand pies any time!
Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Leftover Hand Pies
- Filling Freshness: Always use leftover fillings within a few days for optimal taste and texture; freshness makes a big difference!
- Seal Smartly: Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent filling leaks during baking; a crimping fork works wonders!
- Experiment Boldly: Don’t hesitate to experiment with other leftovers like mashed potatoes or veggies for unique flavors in your Thanksgiving leftover hand pies.
- Golden Crust: Keep an eye on the pies towards the end of baking; you want them to be perfectly golden, not overdone!
- Storage Sense: Allow your hand pies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their deliciousness for up to three days.
Make Ahead Options
These Thanksgiving Leftover Hand Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while enjoying the flavors of the holiday! You can prepare the filling by mixing together leftover turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pie crust can also be rolled out and shaped up to 24 hours before baking, ensuring everything is ready to go. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the prepared crusts with the chilled mixture, seal them, brush with egg wash, and bake. This method not only simplifies your meal prep but also keeps the hand pies just as delicious, making them a quick and delightful treat any time!
Thanksgiving Leftover Hand Pies Variations
Dive into a world of flavors and textures by customizing these delightful hand pies!
- Mashed Potato Magic: Substitute stuffing with creamy mashed potatoes for a thicker, comforting filling that adds a new dimension to each bite.
- Cheesy Delight: Add a sprinkle of your favorite cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, to the turkey mixture for an extra layer of creaminess and flavor.
- Vegetarian Twist: Swap turkey for roasted vegetables or lentils, and add spices like cumin or coriander to give the filling a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the turkey filling, igniting each bite with a thrilling kick of heat.
- Fruit Fusion: Combine chopped apples or pears with the cranberry sauce for a sweet surprise that beautifully complements the savory elements.
- Gravy Goodness: Before sealing, add a spoonful of turkey gravy to each pocket for a rich and moist filling—perfect for gravy lovers!
- Herbed Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary with your turkey and stuffing to introduce an aromatic freshness that elevates the entire dish.
- Sweet Compote: Swap cranberry sauce for a sweet-sour apple or cherry compote for a fruity twist that pairs deliciously with the savory filling.
Experiment with these variations to make each batch of hand pies uniquely scrumptious!
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Leftover Hand Pies?
Enjoy every bite of your delightful hand pies with these perfect pairing options that enhance their comforting flavors.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of creamy mashed potatoes provides a dreamy contrast to the flaky hand pies, making every bite truly indulgent. Consider adding a touch of garlic or roasted herbs for an extra layer of flavor.
- Herbed Green Beans: Fresh, sautéed green beans dressed in a light olive oil and herb dressing add a crisp, vibrant green element to your plate. Their brightness balances the hearty richness of the pies beautifully.
- Cranberry Sauce: Serve a small bowl on the side for dipping! The sweet-tart flavor of cranberry sauce pairs perfectly with the savory filling, creating a mouthwatering harmony that’s refreshingly festive.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized bites bring a satisfying crunch and earthy sweetness, while also introducing a delightful contrast to the hand pies. Toss them with balsamic vinegar for an extra punch of flavor.
- Stuffing Balls: Why not double down on comfort? Mini stuffing balls act as a playful, bite-sized tribute to the original feast, complementing the flavors in the hand pies while offering a fun texture variation.
- Spiced Apple Cider: Sip on a warm glass of spiced apple cider during your meal. The gentle sweetness and aromatic spices resonate with the cozy essence of Thanksgiving and blend seamlessly with the flavors of the hand pies.
- Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, embrace the holiday spirit with a classic slice of pumpkin pie. Its creamy texture and warm spices offer a comforting finish to your meal, echoing the seasonal festivities.
Thanksgiving Leftover Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right turkey for my hand pies?
Absolutely! It’s best to use turkey that’s not too dry. When selecting leftover turkey for your hand pies, make sure it is tender and flavorful. If it looks dry with dark spots all over, consider re-moistening it with a bit of broth before adding it to your pies.
How should I store my Thanksgiving leftover hand pies?
I recommend allowing the hand pies to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong their life, freezing is a great option!
Can I freeze my Thanksgiving leftover hand pies?
Very! To freeze your hand pies, wrap each cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply reheat it in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes straight from the freezer for a crisp finish.
What if my hand pie filling leaks during baking?
No worries, it happens to the best of us! If you find that your filling has escaped a bit during baking, it’s likely because the edges weren’t sealed well. To prevent this, crimp the edges firmly with a fork and ensure that the filling isn’t overstuffed; less is more when sealing them.
Are these hand pies safe for my pets?
While the ingredients in Thanksgiving Leftover Hand Pies, such as turkey, are usually safe for pets in moderation, you should avoid giving them the pie crust and fillings that contain spices or sauces, especially those high in sodium. Always consult your vet if you’re unsure.
Can I customize the filling for my Thanksgiving leftover hand pies?
Absolutely! It’s a wonderful way to get creative. You can add mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even some cheese for a creamier texture. Just keep the balance of moisture in mind so your pies don’t become soggy. Each pie can be a unique creation based on your leftovers!
Thanksgiving Leftover Hand Pies – Easy Comfort in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the pie crust package, usually around 425°F.
- Roll out your ready-made frozen pie crust gently on a clean surface and cut into shapes.
- Layer leftover turkey, stuffing, and a spoonful of cranberry sauce on one half of each cut-out shape.
- Fold the other half of the crust over the filling, press the edges together, and crimp with a fork.
- Lightly brush the tops with egg wash or milk for a shiny finish.
- Bake on a baking sheet until golden brown and flaky, usually about 20-25 minutes.
