Mini Thanksgiving Turkey & Cranberry Pot Pies

These Mini Thanksgiving Turkey & Cranberry Pot Pies are a delightful twist on traditional holiday fare. They capture the essence of Thanksgiving by combining savory turkey with sweet cranberry sauce, all encased in a flaky pastry. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, these mini pies add a festive touch to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy holiday cooking.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of ground turkey and cranberry sauce creates a deliciously unique taste.
• Perfect Portions: Mini pot pies are great for serving guests, allowing everyone to enjoy their own individual portion.
• Versatile Meal: These pies can be served as a main course or appetizer at any gathering.
• Freezable Delight: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for an easy meal later!

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious mini pot pies, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Pie dish or muffin tin
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough to the perfect thickness for your mini pots.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining your ingredients without fuss. A set with various sizes is ideal.
• Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
• Muffin tin: Perfect for shaping mini pot pies, creating uniform portions that bake evenly.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, (plus additional for rolling out the dough)
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 8 ounces (16 tablespoons) unsalted butter, (chilled and cut into cubes)
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

For the Filling

• 1 medium yellow onion, (diced)
• 1 celery stalk, (diced)
• 1 cup diced, peeled Russet potato
• 1 pound ground dark meat turkey
• Kosher salt, (as needed)
• Freshly ground black pepper, (as needed)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 1 cup shredded havarti cheese
• ½ cup canned chunky cranberry sauce
• 2 tablespoons diced chives
• 1 large egg

How to Make Mini Thanksgiving Turkey & Cranberry Pot Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by mixing the flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Add the chilled butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in olive oil until combined. Gradually add cold water until the dough comes together but is not sticky. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and celery in olive oil until softened. Add the diced potato and cook until slightly tender. Stir in ground turkey and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned. Sprinkle in flour, mix well, then gradually add chicken stock while stirring continuously until thickened. Remove from heat, then fold in cheese, cranberry sauce, and chives.

Step 3: Assemble the Pot Pies

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Cut out circles large enough to fit into your muffin tin or pie dish. Place dough circles into each compartment. Fill with turkey filling, then roll out the second disc of dough to create tops for each pie. Seal edges by crimping with a fork or your fingers.

Step 4: Bake

Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 30–40 minutes or until crust is golden brown. Allow cooling slightly before serving.

Enjoy your cozy Mini Thanksgiving Turkey & Cranberry Pot Pies as they bring warmth and flavor to your festive table!

How to Serve Mini Thanksgiving Turkey & Cranberry Pot Pies

These delightful Mini Thanksgiving Turkey & Cranberry Pot Pies are perfect for any gathering. Their individual portions make them easy to serve and enjoy. Here are some great ways to present these tasty pies to your guests.

Individual Serving Plates

• Serve each mini pot pie on a small plate with a side of cranberry sauce for dipping.

Family Style Platter

• Arrange the pot pies on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an inviting presentation.

Accompanied by Salad

• Pair with a light mixed green salad tossed in balsamic vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pies.

With Seasonal Vegetables

• Offer seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts alongside the pot pies for added color and nutrition.

As Part of a Buffet

• Include these pies in a buffet spread with other holiday favorites, allowing guests to mix and match their plates.

How to Perfect Mini Thanksgiving Turkey & Cranberry Pot Pies

Making the perfect Mini Thanksgiving Turkey & Cranberry Pot Pies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your pie-making skills.

• Chill the Dough: Ensure your pastry dough is well-chilled before rolling it out. This helps achieve a flaky texture when baked.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality turkey for better flavor in your pot pies.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; proper seasoning enhances the dish’s overall taste.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pot pies while they bake. Remove them once they reach a golden-brown color.
• Let Them Rest: Allow the pot pies to cool slightly before serving. This helps set the filling and makes them easier to eat.

Best Side Dishes for Mini Thanksgiving Turkey & Cranberry Pot Pies

Complement your Mini Thanksgiving Turkey & Cranberry Pot Pies with delicious side dishes that enhance your meal. Here’s a list of great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic provide a rich side that pairs well.
2. Green Bean Almondine – Lightly sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds add crunch and freshness.
3. Stuffing – A savory stuffing packed with herbs and veggies can be a hearty addition that resonates with holiday flavors.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet roasted potatoes bring natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory dishes.
5. Cranberry Relish – A zesty cranberry relish made from fresh cranberries adds brightness and balances flavors on the plate.
6. Buttered Corn – Simple buttered corn is sweet and comforting, making it an excellent companion for any main dish.
7. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon – Sautéed Brussels sprouts (substituting bacon with turkey bacon if desired) offer a deliciously savory note.
8. Cauliflower Gratin – Creamy cauliflower gratin adds a unique twist, providing richness without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mini Thanksgiving Turkey & Cranberry Pot Pies, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using warm butter: Always use chilled butter when making pastry dough. This helps create a flaky crust that is delicious.
• Skipping the chilling time: After preparing the dough, refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This prevents shrinkage during baking and keeps the texture perfect.
• Overfilling the pies: Be cautious not to overstuff your mini pot pies. Leaving some space at the top allows for proper sealing and prevents them from spilling over while baking.
• Not seasoning properly: Taste your filling before assembling. Adjust salt and pepper as needed; this ensures every bite is flavorful.
• Ignoring cooking times: Follow cooking times closely. Undercooking can lead to a soggy crust, while overcooking can dry out the filling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Mini Thanksgiving Turkey & Cranberry Pot Pies

• Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mini Thanksgiving Turkey & Cranberry Pot Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the pastry dough for Mini Thanksgiving Turkey & Cranberry Pot Pies?

To make the pastry dough, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in chilled butter until crumbly, then mix with ice water until just combined.

Can I customize the filling of Mini Thanksgiving Turkey & Cranberry Pot Pies?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots or peas or use different cheeses based on your preference.

What if I don’t have ground turkey?

You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef for similar results in your Mini Thanksgiving Turkey & Cranberry Pot Pies.

How long do Mini Thanksgiving Turkey & Cranberry Pot Pies take to bake?

Bake your pot pies for about 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown and bubbly.

Final Thoughts

These Mini Thanksgiving Turkey & Cranberry Pot Pies are a delightful twist on classic flavors that bring warmth and comfort to any gathering. They’re versatile enough to customize with different fillings or spices based on what you love. Give them a try; they’re sure to impress family and friends!