If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying meal that brings comfort and a little twist to classic pot pies, this Turkey Mashed Sweet Potato Pot Pie Recipe is exactly what you need. I absolutely love how the creamy mashed sweet potatoes add a subtle sweetness and a gorgeous color contrast to the savory turkey filling beneath. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for chilly nights or whenever you want to treat yourself to some hearty home cooking.
When I first tried this, I was pleasantly surprised at how well the sweet potatoes balanced the rich herb-infused turkey stew inside. You’ll find that it’s a fantastic way to transform leftover turkey into a show-stopping dinner that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant but is simple enough to pull together on a weeknight. Trust me, whether you’re using freshly cooked turkey or leftovers, this recipe is worth making again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food with a Twist: Sweet potatoes add a creamy, colorful topping that elevates the traditional pot pie experience.
- Perfect for Leftovers: A delicious, inventive way to use up turkey after holidays or any roast night.
- Herb-Infused Flavor: Fresh parsley, thyme, and sage brighten every bite and complement the turkey perfectly.
- Simple but Impressive: Takes everyday ingredients and turns them into a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Turkey Mashed Sweet Potato Pot Pie Recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet how wonderfully they come together. Fresh herbs are key here—they really lift the whole dish and keep it tasting vibrant. When shopping, look for firm sweet potatoes and high-quality broth to get the richest flavor.
- Sweet potatoes: Peeled and diced evenly so they cook through nicely for mashing.
- Kosher salt: Ideal for seasoning because it disperses evenly without overwhelming.
- Sour cream or full-fat plain yogurt: Adds creaminess and a little tang; I’ve found plain yogurt works great if you want a lighter touch.
- Cooked turkey breast: Skin removed to keep the filling lean and tender.
- Olive oil: For sautéing veggies, adds a subtle fruity depth.
- Shallots: Milder than onions, they build nice sweetness during cooking.
- Fresh parsley, thyme, and sage: The trio that makes the turkey filling sing with classic flavor.
- Celery stalks: For crunch and aromatic contrast.
- Frozen peas and carrots: Convenient and add bursts of color and texture.
- Turkey or chicken broth: Gives richness and moisture to the filling.
- Black pepper: Freshly cracked is best for a little warming bite.
- Cornstarch: Makes the filling thick and luscious without heaviness.
Variations
I like to keep this Turkey Mashed Sweet Potato Pot Pie Recipe pretty classic, but honestly, it’s a perfect base to tweak according to your mood or what’s in the fridge. Feel free to get creative—this dish is forgiving and makes a great canvas for your own spin.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap turkey for sautéed mushrooms and add extra herbs; the mashed sweet potato topping still delivers comfort and richness.
- Dairy-Free Twist: Use coconut yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream alternative in the mashed potatoes to keep creaminess without dairy.
- Spice it Up: I’ve added a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne before baking for a subtle kick that my family actually loves.
- Mini Pot Pies: Making individual ramekins is so fun for parties or kids’ meals; plus, they cook faster and look adorable.
How to Make Turkey Mashed Sweet Potato Pot Pie Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Mash the Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling and dicing your sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes—they’ll cook evenly and mash up beautifully. Boil them in salted water just like pasta water, about 16 to 18 minutes until super tender. Drain them well, then mash with sour cream and a pinch of salt for that creamy, dreamy topping. Keep it covered so it stays warm until you’re ready to layer it over the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Turkey Filling
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the shallots along with fresh parsley, thyme, and sage until soft and fragrant—that aroma is what sets this dish apart. Then stir in chopped celery and cook until tender. Add frozen peas and carrots with the chopped turkey. Pour in 2 cups of turkey broth to create a savory base and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let everything simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes so the flavors meld together nicely.
Step 3: Thicken the Filling and Assemble
Mix the remaining 2/3 cup of broth with cornstarch until smooth, then stir this slurry into the simmering filling. Keep cooking and stirring for another 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens to the perfect texture—smooth but hearty. Remove from heat and transfer the turkey mixture to a deep 9×9 baking dish or divide it into individual ramekins. Spoon the mashed sweet potatoes over the top, spreading them evenly like a cozy blanket.
Step 4: Bake and Broil to Finish
Bake the assembled pot pie at 375°F on a sheet pan for about 20 minutes until everything is bubbling and hot. Then pop it under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes to get a beautiful golden-brown top—watch carefully so it doesn’t burn, but that little bit of color really takes it over the top. Let it rest a few minutes before serving; the filling will set a bit, making it easier to scoop and enjoy.
Pro Tips for Making Turkey Mashed Sweet Potato Pot Pie Recipe
- Even Sweet Potato Cuts: Cutting potatoes uniformly helps them cook evenly and mash easily without lumps.
- Don’t Over-Simmer: Keep an eye on the filling and avoid boiling too hard to prevent the turkey from drying out.
- Herbs Make a Difference: Fresh herbs add such bright flavor—don’t substitute with dried unless you adjust quantities accordingly.
- Broiling Watch: The broiler works fast, so stay close to get that crispy top without burnt edges.
How to Serve Turkey Mashed Sweet Potato Pot Pie Recipe
Garnishes
I love finishing this dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thyme right before serving—it adds a pop of green and a fresh herby note that complements the rich flavors perfectly. For a little crunch, sometimes I toss toasted pepitas or walnuts on top after baking, which my family really enjoys.
Side Dishes
This pot pie is pretty filling on its own, but I like to serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts to add texture and a fresh contrast. Simple steamed green beans or a tangy slaw also pair beautifully if you want a lighter side.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I’ve made this recipe in individual ramekins and topped each with a little herb sprig for an elegant, personal touch. It’s fun to let guests break through golden mashed potato tops to reveal the savory turkey inside. You can also use puff pastry as a lid if you want a flaky crust instead of mashed potatoes—though honestly, the sweet potato version steals the show in my book!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually transfer any leftovers into airtight containers and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you reheat, it’s best to use the oven or toaster oven to keep the mashed sweet potatoes from getting soggy—microwaving works in a pinch but loses a bit of texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this pot pie either assembled or after baking; if freezing assembled, wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake again until warmed through. I’ve found that freezing works best when using individual ramekins so you can defrost just what you need.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers by placing them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, uncovered, to keep the mashed sweet potato topping nice and slightly crisp on the edges. If you want to refresh that broiled finish, a quick 1–2 minutes under the broiler works wonders. If using the microwave, cover loosely to avoid drying but expect softer textures.
FAQs
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Can I use white potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! While the sweet potatoes add a lovely sweetness and vibrant color, white potatoes or Yukon golds will work just fine if you prefer a more traditional mashed potato topping. The texture might be a bit different, but the pot pie will still be delicious.
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Is there a good dairy-free alternative for the sour cream in the mashed potatoes?
Yes! You can substitute the sour cream with full-fat coconut yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream option to keep that creamy consistency without dairy. Just make sure to choose unsweetened varieties to prevent adding unwanted sweetness.
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Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! This Turkey Mashed Sweet Potato Pot Pie Recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t use any flour-based crusts or thickeners that contain gluten—cornstarch is the thickener here and is gluten-free. Just double-check your broth and other packaged ingredients to be sure.
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Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can mash the sweet potatoes and prepare the turkey filling a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, then assemble and bake just before serving to keep everything fresh and flavorful.
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How can I make individual servings?
Make the filling as directed, then split it into four 8-ounce ramekins. Top each with mashed sweet potatoes and bake the same way. These are perfect for portion control or festive gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Turkey Mashed Sweet Potato Pot Pie Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it feels like a warm reunion of flavors that remind me of family dinners and cozy winter evenings. It’s one of those dishes I turn to whenever I want to impress with minimal fuss but maximum heart. I’m genuinely excited for you to try it out—you’ll find it comforting, approachable, and endlessly adaptable. Let this recipe be your new go-to for turning humble ingredients into something unforgettable.
PrintTurkey Mashed Sweet Potato Pot Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Turkey Mashed Sweet Potato Pot Pie is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for using up Thanksgiving leftovers. It combines tender mashed sweet potatoes with a flavorful turkey and vegetable filling, baked to golden perfection. A delicious twist on traditional pot pie with rich herbs and a creamy texture.
Ingredients
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
- 1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and diced 1-inch
- Kosher salt
- 1/4 cup sour cream or full-fat plain yogurt (see notes for dairy-free option)
Turkey Filling
- 2 1/2 cups chopped cooked turkey breast (skin removed, about 1 pound)
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large shallot, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 ounces frozen peas and carrots
- 2 2/3 cups turkey or chicken broth, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions
- Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Place the peeled and diced sweet potatoes in a medium saucepan. Cover with water and add 1 tablespoon kosher salt, similar to pasta water. Bring to a boil and cook for 16 to 18 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the saucepan. Add 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt and the sour cream or full-fat plain yogurt. Mash thoroughly with a potato masher until smooth and creamy. Cover to keep warm.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position a rack in the center for baking.
- Sauté Aromatics and Herbs: In a large skillet, heat 1/2 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots, parsley, thyme, and sage. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the herbs and shallots are nearly soft and fragrant.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped celery and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Then add the frozen peas and carrots.
- Add Turkey and Broth: Add the chopped turkey, 2 cups turkey broth, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld flavors.
- Thicken the Filling: In a small bowl, mix 2/3 cup turkey broth with 2 tablespoons cornstarch until smooth. Stir this mixture into the turkey filling and continue cooking over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Assemble the Pot Pie: Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the turkey filling evenly into a deep 9×9-inch baking dish or a deep round pie dish. Alternatively, divide the filling into four 8-ounce broiler-safe ramekins.
- Add Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Spoon the mashed sweet potatoes over the turkey filling, spreading it out evenly to cover the surface.
- Bake and Broil: Place the dish(es) on a sheet pan and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until heated through. For a lovely golden top, finish by broiling for 2 to 3 minutes until the sweet potato topping develops a beautiful color. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Notes
- This recipe is an excellent way to repurpose leftover turkey from Thanksgiving, turning it into a cozy comfort meal.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or coconut cream.
- Individual ramekins make perfect single servings and are great for portion control or entertaining.
- Fresh herbs add a bright flavor, but dried herbs can be used if fresh are not available—use about one-third the amount if substituting dried.
- Keep an eye on the dish when broiling to prevent the sweet potato topping from burning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 337 kcal
- Sugar: 6.5 g
- Sodium: 399 mg
- Fat: 6.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: 5.25 g
- Protein: 37.5 g
- Cholesterol: 86.5 mg