Marie Callender’s turkey pot pie is a beloved dish that has been a staple in many American households for decades. The combination of tender turkey, savory vegetables, and flaky crust makes for a comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion. While you can purchase Marie Callender’s turkey pot pie in stores, making it from scratch can be a fun and rewarding experience. In this article, we will provide a detailed guide on how to make Marie Callender’s turkey pot pie at home.
Introduction to Marie Callender’s Turkey Pot Pie
Marie Callender’s is a well-known brand that has been serving up delicious pot pies for over 60 years. The company was founded by Marie Callender, a woman who was passionate about cooking and sharing her love of food with others. Today, Marie Callender’s is a popular choice for those looking for a convenient and satisfying meal. The turkey pot pie is one of the company’s most popular dishes, and for good reason. It is made with high-quality ingredients and is filled with a generous amount of turkey, vegetables, and gravy.
History of Marie Callender’s
Marie Callender’s was founded in 1948 by Marie Callender, a woman who had a passion for cooking and sharing her love of food with others. Marie grew up in a family of modest means, but her mother always made sure to cook up delicious meals for their family. Marie learned how to cook from her mother and quickly developed a passion for it. After marrying her husband, Marie began to sell her famous pies at a local restaurant, and soon, her pies became a hit. The restaurant was so successful that Marie was able to open up her own shop, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Ingredients and Nutrition
Marie Callender’s turkey pot pie is made with a variety of ingredients, including turkey, vegetables, and gravy. The pie is also filled with a generous amount of cheese and is topped with a flaky crust. The ingredients used in Marie Callender’s turkey pot pie are of high quality, and the company takes pride in using only the freshest ingredients available. A single serving of Marie Callender’s turkey pot pie contains approximately 360 calories, 20 grams of fat, and 25 grams of protein.
Making the Crust
The crust is a crucial component of Marie Callender’s turkey pot pie. The crust is made with a combination of flour, butter, and water, and is designed to be flaky and tender. To make the crust, you will need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Flour | 2 cups |
| Cold butter | 1/2 cup |
| Water | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
To make the crust, combine the flour, butter, and salt in a large bowl. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead a few times until it becomes smooth and pliable. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disk. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Rolled-Out Crust
Once the crust has chilled, it is time to roll it out. Remove one of the disks from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the dough to relax and become easier to roll out. Lightly flour a rolling surface and roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use a gentle touch when rolling out the dough, as you want to avoid developing the gluten in the flour. This can make the crust tough and dense.
Making the Filling
The filling is the heart of Marie Callender’s turkey pot pie. The filling is made with a combination of turkey, vegetables, and gravy, and is designed to be savory and satisfying. To make the filling, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound cooked turkey, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make the filling, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes, and cook until the vegetables are tender. Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually add the chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the filling has thickened. Stir in the cooked turkey and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assembling the Pie
Once the crust and filling are ready, it is time to assemble the pie. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the crust to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Spoon the filling into the center of the crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Brush the edges of the crust with a little water, then roll out the second disk of crust to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use this crust to cover the filling, pressing the edges to seal. Use a sharp knife to cut a few slits in the top of the crust, allowing steam to escape during baking.
Baking the Pie
Place the pie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the top of the crust with a little milk or beaten egg. Bake the pie for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations
Making Marie Callender’s turkey pot pie is a fun and rewarding experience, but there are a few tips and variations to keep in mind. First, make sure to use high-quality ingredients, including fresh vegetables and lean turkey. Second, don’t overwork the crust, as this can make it tough and dense. Finally, feel free to customize the filling to your taste, adding your favorite vegetables or spices.
In conclusion, making Marie Callender’s turkey pot pie is a fun and rewarding experience that can be enjoyed by the whole family. With its flaky crust and savory filling, this pie is sure to become a staple in your household. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and authentic Marie Callender’s turkey pot pie that is sure to impress. So why not give it a try? With a little practice and patience, you can become a master pie-maker and enjoy the delicious taste of Marie Callender’s turkey pot pie in the comfort of your own home.
What ingredients are required to make Marie Callender’s Turkey Pot Pie?
To make Marie Callender’s Turkey Pot Pie, you will need a variety of ingredients, including a pre-cooked turkey, frozen mixed vegetables, and a can of condensed cream of chicken soup. You will also need some basic pantry staples, such as all-purpose flour, butter, and salt. Additionally, you will need a package of frozen puff pastry, which will serve as the crust for your pot pie. It is essential to have all the necessary ingredients before starting the recipe to ensure that the cooking process goes smoothly.
The quality of the ingredients used can significantly impact the flavor and texture of the final product. For instance, using high-quality, pre-cooked turkey will result in a more tender and flavorful filling. Similarly, using fresh herbs and spices can add depth and complexity to the dish. It is also crucial to follow the recipe instructions carefully and measure the ingredients accurately to achieve the best results. By using the right ingredients and following the recipe, you can create a delicious and authentic Marie Callender’s Turkey Pot Pie that is sure to impress your family and friends.
How do I prepare the filling for the turkey pot pie?
Preparing the filling for the turkey pot pie involves combining the pre-cooked turkey, frozen mixed vegetables, and condensed cream of chicken soup in a large skillet. You will need to sauté the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are thawed and the filling is heated through. You can also add some diced onion, celery, and herbs to the filling to enhance the flavor. It is essential to cook the filling until it is hot and bubbly, as this will help to prevent the filling from being cold or congealed when the pie is baked.
Once the filling is prepared, you can set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the puff pastry crust. It is crucial to let the filling cool slightly, as this will help to prevent the crust from becoming soggy or mushy. You can also use this time to preheat your oven and prepare any additional ingredients, such as egg wash or grated cheese, that you may need to complete the recipe. By preparing the filling in advance, you can ensure that your turkey pot pie turns out perfectly and is ready to be served hot and fresh from the oven.
What is the best way to thaw frozen puff pastry?
The best way to thaw frozen puff pastry is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight or to thaw it at room temperature for a few hours. You can also thaw the pastry in the microwave by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and heating it on defrost mode for 30-second intervals, checking and flipping the pastry until it is thawed. It is essential to thaw the pastry slowly and gently, as this will help to prevent it from becoming tough or developing off-flavors.
Once the pastry is thawed, you can roll it out on a lightly floured surface to the desired thickness. It is crucial to handle the pastry gently and avoid over-working it, as this can cause the pastry to become tough or shrink excessively during baking. You can also use a pastry brush to apply a small amount of water or egg wash to the edges of the pastry, which will help the pastry to stick together and create a flaky, golden crust. By thawing and handling the puff pastry correctly, you can create a beautiful and delicious crust for your turkey pot pie.
How do I assemble the turkey pot pie?
Assembling the turkey pot pie involves placing the prepared filling into a pie dish or skillet and topping it with the rolled-out puff pastry crust. You will need to place the pastry over the filling, pressing the edges to seal and trimming any excess pastry from the edges. You can also use a knife or pastry brush to create a decorative edge or pattern on the pastry. It is essential to seal the pastry tightly, as this will help to prevent the filling from escaping during baking and create a flaky, golden crust.
Once the pie is assembled, you can brush the pastry with a small amount of egg wash or melted butter to give it a golden brown color. You can also sprinkle some grated cheese or chopped herbs over the pastry for added flavor and texture. It is crucial to bake the pie in a preheated oven at the correct temperature, as this will help to cook the filling and pastry evenly and prevent the pastry from burning or becoming overcooked. By assembling the pie correctly and baking it to perfection, you can create a delicious and authentic Marie Callender’s Turkey Pot Pie that is sure to impress your family and friends.
What is the best way to bake the turkey pot pie?
The best way to bake the turkey pot pie is to place it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly. You can also cover the pie with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking to prevent the pastry from burning, and then remove the foil to allow the pastry to brown. It is essential to bake the pie at the correct temperature, as this will help to cook the filling and pastry evenly and prevent the pastry from becoming overcooked or burnt.
It is also crucial to check the pie regularly during baking to ensure that it is cooking evenly and that the pastry is not becoming too brown. You can use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the filling, which should reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety. By baking the pie correctly and checking it regularly, you can create a delicious and authentic Marie Callender’s Turkey Pot Pie that is sure to impress your family and friends. Additionally, you can serve the pie hot, garnished with chopped herbs or grated cheese, and accompanied by a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Can I make the turkey pot pie ahead of time and freeze it?
Yes, you can make the turkey pot pie ahead of time and freeze it for later use. To freeze the pie, you will need to assemble the pie and place it in a freezer-safe dish or bag. You can then freeze the pie for up to 3 months, and bake it frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 40-50 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly. It is essential to label and date the pie, as well as to follow safe freezing and reheating procedures to prevent foodborne illness.
When freezing the pie, it is crucial to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and other forms of damage. You can also freeze the filling and pastry separately, and then assemble the pie just before baking. By making the pie ahead of time and freezing it, you can save time and effort during the holiday season or other busy periods, and still enjoy a delicious and authentic Marie Callender’s Turkey Pot Pie. Additionally, you can also freeze individual portions of the pie, which can be baked and served as needed, making it a convenient and flexible option for meal planning and preparation.