There’s something magically cozy about the aroma of turkey and stuffing wafting through your home, like a warm hug on a chilly winter day. Imagine biting into a flaky, golden crust that holds tender turkey mixed with savory stuffing, all wrapped up in a delightful hand pie. These Holiday Turkey & Stuffing Hand Pies are not just food; they’re like little edible gifts that promise to make any gathering feel festive and special.
Every year, my family gathers for the holidays, and these hand pies have become a staple. Picture this: my cousin Rosa takes one bite and declares it the best thing she’s ever tasted, while Uncle Joe tries to sneak an extra one when he thinks no one is watching. The laughter and joy shared over these tasty treats create memories that last long after the holiday lights are dimmed.
Why You'll Love This Holiday Turkey & Stuffing Hand Pies
- This incredible Holiday Turkey & Stuffing Hand Pies transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
I remember the first time I made these hand pies—my friends were so impressed they started calling me “The Pie Whisperer.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pre-made Pie Crusts: I usually grab a couple of boxes from the store for convenience; homemade is also superb if you’re feeling adventurous.
Cooked Turkey: Leftover turkey works perfectly here; just shred it into bite-sized pieces for easy filling.
Stuffing Mix: Choose your favorite stuffing mix; cornbread or traditional herb stuffing adds great flavor.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to keep control over saltiness while adding moisture to your filling.
Egg Wash: A simple mixture of beaten egg and water gives those pies a glorious golden sheen when baked.
Herbs (Thyme & Sage): Fresh or dried herbs elevate the flavors; I love using fresh thyme for its aromatic qualities.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Holiday Turkey & Stuffing Hand Pies
Prepare Your Filling: Start by mixing shredded turkey with prepared stuffing in a large bowl. Pour in chicken broth until everything is moist but not soggy—aim for that perfect balance of texture.
Roll Out Your Dough: Unroll pie crusts onto a clean surface and use a rolling pin to flatten slightly. This helps ensure even cooking; nobody likes undercooked dough!
Cut Circles: Using a round cutter or a glass, cut out circles from the dough; aim for about 4-5 inches in diameter. Don’t worry about perfection; rustic is charming too!
Fill and Seal: Spoon the turkey-stuffing mixture onto half of each circle. Fold over the other half and crimp edges with a fork to seal them tightly—no one wants an explosion of filling during baking!
Brush with Egg Wash: Prepare an egg wash by whisking together an egg with a splash of water. Brush this mixture over each hand pie for that beautiful golden color when they come out of the oven.
Bake Away: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and flaky.
Now you have delicious Holiday Turkey & Stuffing Hand Pies that will impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every flaky bite filled with nostalgia and warmth as you share this delightful dish with loved ones.
You Must Know About Holiday Turkey & Stuffing Hand Pies
- This showstopping Holiday Turkey & Stuffing Hand Pies delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the filling to maximize flavors. While it cools, roll out the dough for quicker assembly. Bake until golden brown for a delightful crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to mix in veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition. Experiment with spices such as sage or thyme to personalize your hand pies.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to restore crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Holiday Turkey & Stuffing Hand Pies
- This professional-quality Holiday Turkey & Stuffing Hand Pies relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
Creating these hand pies always reminds me of that one Thanksgiving where my cousin mistook sage for oregano, turning our family dinner into a hilarious guessing game of “What’s that flavor?” We still laugh about it today!
FAQ
What is the best way to ensure my pie crust is flaky?
For a flaky crust, keep your butter cold and avoid overworking the dough. Use chilled water when mixing, and don’t hesitate to take breaks if your kitchen is warm—this helps maintain that all-important butter temperature.
Can I freeze Holiday Turkey & Stuffing Hand Pies?
Yes! You can freeze unbaked hand pies by placing them on a baking sheet until solid, then transferring them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding about five minutes to the cooking time for perfect results.
What can I serve with my hand pies?
Serve your holiday turkey & stuffing hand pies with a side of cranberry sauce or a fresh salad. These accompaniments add brightness and contrast against the hearty flavors of the pies.
How do I know when my hand pies are done baking?
Look for a deep golden-brown color on top and firm texture when gently pressed in the center. A meat thermometer inserted should read at least 165°F if you’re unsure.
Conclusion for Holiday Turkey & Stuffing Hand Pies
In summary, mastering Holiday Turkey & Stuffing Hand Pies involves careful preparation and seasoning adjustments tailored to your taste preferences. These delightful pastries are perfect for celebrations or cozy dinners alike, offering warmth and comfort in each bite. Don’t forget to share them with loved ones; they might just become your new holiday tradition!
Holiday Turkey & Stuffing Hand Pies
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Holiday Turkey & Stuffing Hand Pies are the ultimate festive treat, enveloping savory turkey and flavorful stuffing in a flaky crust. Perfect for gatherings, these hand pies bring warmth and joy to every bite. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, they create cherished memories around the table while delighting guests with their deliciousness.
Ingredients
- 2 pre-made pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 1 cup stuffing mix (cornbread or traditional herb)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or dried)
- 1 tsp fresh sage (or dried)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine shredded turkey, stuffing mix, and chicken broth until moist.
- Roll out pie crusts on a clean surface and cut into circles (4-5 inches in diameter).
- Spoon filling onto half of each circle, fold over, and crimp edges to seal.
- Brush tops with an egg wash.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 hand pie (100g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
