Turkey Stuffing Hand Pies Cranberry

This leftover turkey and stuffing hand pie recipe transforms holiday remnants into a portable feast that's even better than the original meal. The flaky pastry encases savory turkey and stuffing while the tangy cranberry dip provides the perfect contrast. I created these when trying to solve the "too many leftovers" dilemma, and they've become more requested than the holiday meal itself!

These hand pies have saved countless post-holiday meals in my house. Last Thanksgiving, my nephew who "hates leftovers" ate three in one sitting and asked if we could skip the traditional dinner next year and just make these instead!

Ingredients

• Cooked turkey: provides lean protein and the foundation of flavor. Choose a mix of white and dark meat for the best taste balance.
• Prepared stuffing: adds herby depth and absorbs moisture. Use homemade for best results, but store-bought works well too.
• Thick gravy: binds everything together without making the pastry soggy. If yours is thin, simmer it down first.
• Refrigerated pie crusts or puff pastry: creates the flaky exterior. Puff pastry offers more layers while pie crust provides sturdier handling.
• Large egg: gives the crust a golden shine. Always brush thoroughly but gently for best results.
• Cranberry sauce: provides tangy contrast to the savory filling. Homemade or whole berry varieties offer the best texture.
• Orange juice and zest: brightens the dip with citrus notes. Use fresh squeezed for vibrant flavor.
• Flaky salt: enhances all flavors with subtle crunch. Maldon or fleur de sel are ideal choices.
• Fresh thyme leaves: add aromatic freshness. Pick leaves just before serving for maximum impact.

Instructions

Prepare the oven:

Heat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Position your rack in the middle of the oven for even browning.

Mix the filling:

Combine chopped turkey, stuffing, and gravy in a bowl. The mixture should hold together when pressed but not be too wet. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remember that cold fillings taste less seasoned, so be slightly generous with salt and pepper.

Shape the hand pies:

Unroll pie crusts or puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into 4 to 6 equal rectangles. Place about 1/3 cup filling on one half of each rectangle, leaving a 1/2 inch border. Fold empty half over filling and press edges to seal.

Crimp and finish:

Use a fork to firmly press edges together, creating a decorative seal that prevents filling from leaking. Cut a small vent in the top of each pie to release steam. Whisk egg with 1 teaspoon water and brush generously over the entire surface for golden color.

Bake to perfection:

Place pies on prepared baking sheet with at least 1 inch between each. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, rotating pan halfway through, until deeply golden brown. The bottom should be well-browned to ensure a crisp rather than soggy crust.

Prepare cranberry dip:

While pies bake, stir together cranberry sauce, orange juice, and orange zest in a small bowl. Adjust sweetness if needed. The dip should be thick but dippable. Transfer to a serving bowl.

Save

The cranberry dip is truly what elevates these hand pies from good to exceptional. I discovered this by accident when my daughter dipped her pie into cranberry sauce instead of gravy. The bright, tangy contrast against the savory filling creates a perfect balance that highlights all the holiday flavors.

Make Ahead Options

These hand pies are perfect for meal prep. You can assemble them completely, then freeze unbaked on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer to freezer bags and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding about 5 minutes to the cooking time. The cranberry dip can be made up to 5 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This makes them perfect for planning ahead during busy holiday seasons.

Ingredient Substitutions

No leftover turkey? Rotisserie chicken works beautifully in this recipe. The pre-cooked meat has similar texture and takes on the stuffing flavors wonderfully. For a vegetarian version, replace the turkey with roasted butternut squash cubes and mushrooms sautéed with herbs. The stuffing can be any variety you prefer, including cornbread or sourdough based. For dairy-free needs, use plant-based butter in your pastry or purchase vegan puff pastry sheets.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these hand pies warm with the cranberry dip on the side. For a complete meal, pair with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. If serving as appetizers, make mini versions using a 3-inch round cutter and reduce baking time to about 15 minutes. These also make excellent additions to holiday buffets where guests can eat while mingling. For an elegant presentation, sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves and flaky salt just before serving.

Creative Variations

Transform this recipe throughout the year by changing the filling. After Easter, use leftover ham and scalloped potatoes. Following a Sunday roast, fill with beef and Yorkshire pudding crumbles. For breakfast hand pies, use scrambled eggs, cheese, and breakfast sausage with a maple syrup dip. During summer, fill with barbecued chicken and cornbread. The pastry technique remains the same while the fillings reflect seasonal celebrations and available leftovers.

Save

Troubleshooting Tips

Leaking filling:

Add less filling or double crimp edges with fork tines

Soggy bottom:

Preheat baking sheet or use lower rack position

Pale crust:

Ensure thorough egg wash application and proper oven temperature

The secret to perfect hand pies is managing moisture. Always let the pies rest for 5 minutes after baking before serving to allow the filling to set slightly.

Cooking Questions

→ Can I use puff pastry instead of pie crust?

Yes, puff pastry gives an extra flaky texture, while pie crust offers sturdy hand pies. Choose based on your preference.

→ How do I keep the filling from leaking?

Use a thick filling and avoid overfilling. Crimp edges well and add a vent slit on top for steam release.

→ Can these hand pies be made ahead?

You can assemble in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving to keep them crisp and warm.

→ What’s the best way to serve the cranberry dip?

Serve the cranberry-orange dip on the side for dunking, or drizzle lightly on top with thyme and flaky salt.

→ Is it possible to freeze the hand pies?

Yes, freeze unbaked hand pies. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes until golden and heated through.