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When the festive season wraps up and the fridge is brimming with leftover turkey, the aroma of a Turkey & Leek Pie fills the kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. This dish transforms your Christmas leftovers into a cozy, savory delight that’s both practical and irresistibly delicious. With a flaky pastry crust cradling a creamy filling of buttery leeks and tender turkey, each slice is like a warm hug on a plate. It’s the ultimate comfort food for those chilly evenings when you crave something hearty yet homemade.

Whether you’re treating yourself after the holiday hustle or impressing friends during a casual dinner, this easy dinner recipe is your solution. Serve it alongside a dollop of cranberry sauce or a drizzle of gravy for an extra burst of festive flavor. Join me in creating this comforting dish that not only celebrates the joy of home-cooked meals but also gives a second life to your turkey leftovers!

Why is Turkey & Leek Pie so beloved?

Comforting warmth: This pie captures the essence of home, offering a serene escape from the chaos of the holidays.
Savory indulgence: The creamy filling, enriched with buttery leeks and smoky bacon, delivers a rich flavor profile that satisfies every craving.
Easy to prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean you can whip this up without a fuss, even on a busy weeknight.
Versatile delight: Customize the filling with whatever vegetables or herbs you have on hand, making it a perfect recipe for using up those odds and ends.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether served as a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, everyone will relish each comforting bite.

Turkey & Leek Pie Ingredients

• Transform your leftovers into a divine pie!

For the Filling

Smoked Streaky Bacon – Adds savory depth to the filling; can use regular bacon for a less smoky flavor.
Butter – Enhances flavor and richness while cooking the bacon and leeks.
Leeks – Provides a mild, sweet onion flavor; essential for the filling. Substitute with sweet onions if leeks are unavailable.
Thyme Sprigs – Fresh herb that adds aromatic notes; dried thyme can be used as a substitute (use less for a more concentrated flavor).
Plain Flour – Acts as a binder for both the pastry and filling, providing necessary structure.
Turkey or Chicken Stock – Gives moisture and depth to the filling; substitute with vegetable stock for a lighter flavor.
Double Cream or Crème Fraîche – Offers richness and creaminess; half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative can be used.
Wholegrain Mustard – Adds a tangy flavor to the filling; smooth mustard can be used for a different texture.
Leftover Cooked Turkey Meat – The main protein component; substitute with any leftover roasted meat like chicken or duck.

For the Pastry

Frozen Butter – Essential for creating a flaky pastry texture; ensures a delightful crust.
Egg (Beaten) – Used for brushing the pastry, providing color and shine during baking.

Remember, using leftover turkey for your Turkey & Leek Pie creates a delicious way to enjoy your holiday feast all over again!

How to Make Turkey & Leek Pie

Make Pastry: In a mixing bowl, combine plain flour and mustard powder, then grate in frozen butter. Add cold water gradually until a soft dough forms. Chill the dough for 30 minutes.
Cook the Filling: In a frying pan, cook the smoked streaky bacon over medium heat until golden brown. Add butter, leeks, and thyme, covering the pan to cook until leeks soften, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in flour, then gradually pour in stock, simmering until thickened. Let it cool.
Combine Ingredients: In the cooled leek mixture, mix in double cream and wholegrain mustard, followed by the leftover turkey. Make sure everything is well incorporated.
Prepare Pie Base: Roll out the chilled pastry into a 35cm circle. Place the turkey filling into a 23cm pie dish, then cover it with the pastry, sealing the edges and cutting small air holes on top.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/gas mark 6) and bake the pie for 45 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky.

Optional: Serve with a side of cranberry sauce for a festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Turkey & Leek Pie

Fridge: Cool and store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps keep your Turkey & Leek Pie fresh and delicious.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the assembled but unbaked pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for about 1 hour or until heated through. If baked already, reheat at 180°C for 20–25 minutes to achieve a crispy crust.

Chilling Before Serving: Let the pie sit for a few minutes after baking before slicing. This helps the filling set, ensuring each slice holds together beautifully.

Expert Tips for Turkey & Leek Pie

Chill Your Dough: Ensure your pastry is well chilled before rolling. This helps achieve a flaky texture when baked, essential for a perfect Turkey & Leek Pie.
Monitor Baking: Keep an eye on the pie while it’s in the oven. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning while allowing the center to cook.
Resting Time: Let the pie rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the filling to set, making slicing and serving much easier while enhancing flavor.
Flavor Enhancements: Don’t hesitate to add herbs or spices to the filling for extra flavor. A sprinkle of nutmeg or a dash of white pepper can elevate the savory goodness of your Turkey & Leek Pie.
Ingredient Substitutes: If certain ingredients aren’t available, remember that substitutions can work wonders. For instance, using sweet onions instead of leeks still yields a satisfying dish.

Turkey & Leek Pie Variations

Embrace the joy of customization with these delightful twists on your Turkey & Leek Pie!

Veggie Boost: Add carrots or peas to the filling for a burst of color and nutrition that brightens every bite. These sweet additions will complement the creamy leeks beautifully.
Herb Infusion: Try using rosemary or dill instead of thyme to elevate the flavor. These herbs bring their own unique aroma, transforming your pie into something truly special.
Heat It Up: For a spicy kick, mix in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. It adds a tantalizing warmth that complements the savory filling perfectly, exciting your taste buds.
Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in grated cheese such as cheddar or Gruyère into the filling for added richness. The melted cheese creates an even creamier texture while enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Crust Variations: Experiment with a wholemeal or puff pastry for a different texture. With wholemeal, you’ll get a nuttier taste, while puff pastry creates a wonderfully flaky crust that adds elegance.
Low-Calorie Option: Swap double cream with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter twist. This change retains creaminess while reducing calories – perfect for health-conscious eaters!
Meatless Delight: For a vegetarian alternative, replace turkey with mushrooms or chickpeas. Both ingredients offer hearty textures that make the pie satisfying and flavorful while maintaining that comforting essence.
Mustard Twist: Experiment by using different types of mustard, like honey mustard or Dijon. This alteration can significantly change the flavor, introducing a sweet or sharper note to the filling.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to make your Turkey & Leek Pie your own signature dish!

What to Serve with Turkey & Leek Pie?

When you’ve indulged in the comforting warmth of this savory pie, it’s time to think about the perfect accompaniments that enhance its deliciousness.

Cranberry Sauce: A tangy burst of sweetness that cuts through the richness of the pie, making every bite delightful.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth texture and buttery flavor of mashed potatoes create a cozy pairing that complements the pie.
Steamed Green Beans: Their crisp freshness adds a vibrant contrast, balancing the savory filling with a touch of brightness.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, parsnips, and potatoes bring warmth and a naturally sweet flavor that matches the season.
Gravy: A rich drizzle over the pie takes comfort food to the next level, infusing each forkful with additional flavor.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad brings a refreshing element, making for a well-rounded meal perfect for a family gathering.
Homemade Stuffing: The herby, savory notes of stuffing resonate beautifully with the leeks and turkey, enhancing the overall experience.

Pairing these delightful sides with your Turkey & Leek Pie not only elevates the meal but also creates an inviting atmosphere that beckons everyone to gather around the table.

Make Ahead Options

These Turkey & Leek Pies are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance—simply cook the filling, let it cool, and refrigerate it until ready to use. Additionally, you can make the pastry dough the day before, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it chilled and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, just roll out the pastry, fill it with your prepared turkey mixture, cover it, and pop it in the oven. This makes serving a comforting, homemade meal a breeze, allowing you to enjoy a hearty dinner with minimal effort after a busy day.

Turkey & Leek Pie Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe leeks?
Choose leeks that are firm, with a bright green color on the tops and white, clean bases. Avoid any that show signs of wilting or have dark spots, as these could indicate spoilage.

What’s the best way to store leftover Turkey & Leek Pie?
For the freshest taste, allow the pie to cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This practice will maintain its creamy filling and flaky crust.

Can I freeze Turkey & Leek Pie, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the assembled but unbaked pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, cook from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for about 1 hour or until heated through.

What do I do if my pastry is too sticky?
If your pastry is too sticky to roll out, add a little more flour, a teaspoon at a time, until it forms a workable dough. Be careful not to overdo it; the goal is a soft but manageable consistency.

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Yes, if you’re accommodating allergies, check that the bacon is gluten-free if necessary and use a gluten-free flour for the pastry. For dairy allergies, substitute the cream with a dairy-free alternative to keep this Turkey & Leek Pie deliciously inclusive!