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Cozy Turkey Hand Pies with Leftover Gravy

leftover turkey hand pies - featured image

Transform leftover turkey and gravy into golden, flaky hand pies that are perfect for using up holiday leftovers. These portable pockets of comfort food come together in under 45 minutes and are guaranteed to convert even the most stubborn turkey skeptics.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced small
  • 1 cup leftover gravy
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
  • 1/4 cup finely diced onion
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
  • 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water
  • Sesame seeds or flaky sea salt, for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Make the filling: In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  3. Combine everything: Add the sautéed onion to a bowl with the shredded turkey. Stir in the thawed peas and carrots, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the gravy and mix until everything is well coated. The mixture should be moist but not soupy.
  4. Prep your dough: Unroll the pie crusts onto a lightly floured surface. Let them sit for 5 minutes if cold. Use a rolling pin to gently smooth out any creases to about 1/8-inch thickness.
  5. Cut the dough: Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut each crust into 4 equal squares (or circles). You should have 8 pieces total.
  6. Fill the pies: Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of filling onto the center of half of the dough pieces (4 pieces). Leave a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
  7. Seal them up: Place the remaining dough pieces on top of the filled ones. Press the edges together with your fingers, then crimp with a fork to seal. Cut 2-3 small slits on top of each pie for steam vents.
  8. Egg wash and topping: Brush each hand pie with the beaten egg wash. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or flaky sea salt if using.
  9. Bake: Place the hand pies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving an inch of space between them. Bake for 18-22 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the vents.
  10. Cool: Let the hand pies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.

Notes

For best results, ensure gravy is thick (like oatmeal consistency) to prevent soggy pastry. If dough feels warm, chill assembled pies for 15 minutes before baking. These freeze beautifully—assemble completely, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes for best texture.

Nutrition

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