Ultimate Leftover Turkey and Ham Pie with Garlic Butter: Your New Favorite Comfort Food

After the hustle and bustle of holiday celebrations, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a comforting meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. This **turkey and ham pie** is precisely that – the culinary highlight I eagerly anticipate after Christmas Day. It stands as the quintessential recipe for transforming leftover turkey into a rich, creamy, and utterly crowd-pleasing dinner. Imagine succulent pieces of leftover turkey and savory ham, generously coated in a luxurious white sauce, all nestled beneath a golden puff pastry crust. But here’s the secret ingredient that elevates this pie to extraordinary status: a layer of fragrant garlic parsley butter, melting wonderfully into the filling as it bakes, infusing every bite with a captivating “chicken Kyiv” inspired flavor. It’s a truly delightful experience that promises to become a cherished tradition in your home.

While this recipe shines brightly during the festive season as a brilliant solution for holiday leftovers, its appeal isn’t limited to a specific time of year. You can effortlessly prepare it from scratch using fresh ingredients, and I’ve included helpful tips on how to do so, particularly if you prefer using chicken. For many, a warm, homemade pie represents the ultimate comfort food. Growing up, my mum’s famous chicken pie was an absolute favorite, a meal that brought instant warmth and joy. Today, I find immense pleasure in recreating that feeling for my own children, and this turkey and ham pie is a delicious embodiment of that same comforting tradition.

This recipe is more than just a way to use up ingredients; it’s an opportunity to create new memories and enjoy hearty, wholesome food. The blend of textures – from the flaky pastry to the tender meat and creamy filling – makes for an unforgettable meal that satisfies both body and soul. Prepare to fall in love with this easy-to-follow, incredibly versatile, and undeniably delicious pie.

Table of Contents

• Why You Will Love This Recipe
• Key Ingredients for Your Delicious Pie
• Substitutions and Variations to Customize Your Pie
• Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Turkey and Ham Pie
• Essential Cooking Tips for the Perfect Pie
• Serving Suggestions for Your Savory Pie
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Other Comfort Food Recipes You Might Enjoy
• Leftover Turkey and Ham Pie Recipe Card

Why You Will Love This Recipe: A Perfect Post-Holiday Delight

This Turkey and Ham Pie is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of convenience, flavor, and resourcefulness. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your recipe collection:

• It’s incredibly easy to make and remarkably quick to assemble. Most of the magic happens in the oven, allowing you to relax while your kitchen fills with tantalizing aromas. With pre-cooked turkey and ready-rolled puff pastry, you’ll be amazed at how swiftly this comforting dish comes together.
• It offers a supremely delicious and economical way to use up leftover turkey and other festive trimmings from your Christmas feast. Instead of letting those precious leftovers go to waste, transform them into a brand new, exciting meal that feels both gourmet and homely.
• This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your personal tastes and what you have on hand. Feel free to add in extra vegetables, different herbs, or even switch up the meat. It’s a flexible framework that encourages culinary creativity and minimizes food waste.
• You have the option to make double the filling and freeze it for a future occasion. Imagine having a ready-to-go, homemade meal waiting in your freezer, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick yet wholesome supper without the fuss. Simply thaw, top with fresh pastry, and bake!
• The unique addition of garlic parsley butter underneath the pastry lid provides an unexpected burst of flavor, reminiscent of classic Chicken Kyiv, elevating a simple pie into something truly special. This little twist makes all the difference, creating a rich, aromatic crust that melts into the creamy filling.

Key Ingredients for Your Delicious Pie

For precise measurements and detailed steps, be sure to check the full recipe card located at the very bottom of this post!

Crafting the perfect Turkey and Ham Pie begins with selecting quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some tips for each:

Cooked turkey: This recipe truly shines as a brilliant solution for leftover turkey from your holiday roast. However, if you don’t have leftovers, shredded roast chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken works equally well, offering the same tender texture and savory flavor. Ensure your turkey or chicken is fully cooked and shredded into bite-sized pieces for even distribution throughout the pie.

Cooked ham: I often opt for convenience by using readily available, shop-bought pre-cooked ham, diced into small cubes. For an even richer flavor, you could incorporate leftover Christmas ham or shredded ham hock, which adds a wonderful depth to the pie’s profile. The saltiness of the ham perfectly complements the creamy turkey filling.

Puff pastry: A single sheet of high-quality, pre-rolled puff pastry is all you require for the golden, flaky crust. Look for an all-butter puff pastry for the best flavor and texture. Ensure it’s thawed according to package instructions if frozen, but still cold when you’re ready to use it, as this helps prevent shrinking and ensures a crispier bake.

Butter: You can use either salted or unsalted butter for this recipe. If using unsalted, you might need to be a little more generous with your seasoning. The most important thing is to taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper levels to achieve a perfectly balanced flavor in your creamy sauce and garlic butter.

Red onion and garlic: These aromatic staples form the flavor base of our creamy sauce. The red onion softens to a sweet, delicate texture, while fresh garlic provides a pungent warmth that is essential for depth of flavor.

Plain flour: Used to create a roux, which thickens the creamy sauce to the perfect consistency. It’s crucial for achieving that rich, velvety texture that coats the turkey and ham beautifully.

Whole milk and double cream: These dairy components create the luxurious, creamy foundation of the pie filling. Whole milk provides body, while double cream adds an indulgent richness, making the sauce incredibly silky and flavorful.

Fresh parsley: A generous handful of chopped fresh parsley brightens up both the pie filling and the garlic butter, adding a fresh, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness. Don’t underestimate its importance for a well-rounded flavor.

Lemon juice and mustard: Just a touch of fresh lemon juice brightens the sauce and balances the richness, while a teaspoon of Dijon or English mustard adds a subtle tang and warmth, enhancing the overall savory profile without being overpowering.

Egg wash and sea salt flakes: A simple beaten egg, brushed over the pastry, creates that signature golden-brown, shiny finish. A sprinkle of sea salt flakes adds a lovely textural crunch and enhances the pastry’s flavor.

Substitutions and Variations to Customize Your Pie

One of the best aspects of this turkey and ham pie recipe is its remarkable flexibility. Don’t hesitate to get creative with what you have on hand or what your family prefers. Here are some fantastic ways to adapt it:

Chicken instead of Turkey: No leftover turkey? No problem! If you can’t get hold of a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, simply roast a few chicken thighs or breasts in the oven. Drizzle them with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 30-40 minutes (or until fully cooked and juices run clear). Once cooled slightly, shred the chicken meat and use it just as you would the turkey. This ensures a delicious pie any time of year.

Skipping the Ham: If you’re not a fan of ham, or simply want a pure turkey pie, you can easily omit it. The pie will still be incredibly flavorful with just the turkey and creamy sauce. Alternatively, if you have an abundance of ham to use up, consider making something like a Ham and Cheese Pithivier, which is another excellent way to enjoy this versatile meat.

Adding Vegetables: Elevate the nutritional value and texture of your pie by incorporating extra vegetables. Carrots and leeks, finely diced and sautéed with the onion until tender, would be fantastic additions. A handful of frozen peas can be stirred in with the turkey and ham at the end, just before assembling the pie. For a touch of greens, consider wilting a handful of fresh kale or spinach into the hot sauce before mixing in the meat. Broccoli florets, corn, or mushrooms are also excellent choices.

Herb Enhancements: While fresh parsley is classic, experiment with other dried herbs for different flavor profiles. Dried rosemary will give it a more robust, earthy taste, perfect for a winter evening. Dried tarragon offers a delicate, slightly anise-like flavor that pairs beautifully with poultry. Dried thyme is another versatile option, providing a savory depth that complements both turkey and ham. Add about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs with the flour or milk for best results.

Cheesy Twist: For an extra layer of richness, sprinkle about half a cup of grated mature cheddar or Gruyère cheese into the filling just before pouring it into the pie dish. It will melt into the creamy sauce, adding a delicious tang and gooey texture.

Spicier Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can be added to the creamy filling. Start with a small amount and taste as you go to reach your preferred level of spice.

These variations ensure that your Turkey and Ham Pie can be tailored to your pantry and preferences, making it a truly versatile and endlessly enjoyable dish.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Turkey and Ham Pie

This is a visual, step-by-step guide to help you through the process. For detailed instructions and measurements, please refer to the full recipe card at the bottom of the page.

STEP ONE: Begin by preheating your oven to 170°C fan (190°C conventional / 375°F). In a large, heavy-bottomed frying pan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over a medium heat. Add the chopped red onion to the melted butter, season lightly with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion has softened and turned translucent. Next, add the crushed garlic and cook for just 30 seconds more, until it becomes fragrant – be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.

STEP TWO: Sprinkle the plain flour over the softened onions and garlic. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon or whisk for 2-3 minutes, creating a smooth paste known as a roux. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and forms the base for our creamy sauce. Gradually pour in the cold milk, whisking vigorously as you add it to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth, then bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce visibly thickens to a lovely, creamy consistency. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

STEP THREE: Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat. Stir in the double cream, followed by the shredded cooked turkey and chopped cooked ham. Add the fresh chopped parsley, the mustard, and a splash of lemon juice. Mix everything thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined and coated in the rich, creamy sauce. At this stage, it’s crucial to taste the filling. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and a generous grind of black pepper, as needed. The flavors should be vibrant and well-balanced.

STEP FOUR: Carefully pour the creamy turkey and ham filling into a suitable pie dish. A round dish of roughly 20–22 cm (8-9 inches) in diameter works perfectly. Spread the filling evenly. Now, prepare the aromatic garlic butter topping: in a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with the grated garlic, chopped fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated, forming a fragrant, spreadable butter. This garlic butter is the secret to the pie’s unique “Chicken Kyiv” inspired flavor.

STEP FIVE: Take a few generous scoops of your freshly made garlic butter and dollop them strategically over the surface of the pie filling. Don’t worry about spreading it perfectly; as the pie bakes, this butter will melt, permeating the filling below and crisping the underside of the pastry, creating an incredible depth of flavor. For an even more indulgent twist, you could also experiment with a few scoops of a rich Café de Paris butter if you happen to have some on hand.

STEP SIX: Gently unroll your sheet of puff pastry. Carefully lay it over the top of the pie dish, ensuring it completely covers the filling. Trim any excess pastry from around the edges using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, leaving a slight overhang. To seal the pastry securely to the dish, firmly press the edges down with the tines of a fork or simply use your fingers. You can also create small decorative vents in the center of the pastry with a sharp knife to allow steam to escape during baking, ensuring a crisp crust.

STEP SEVEN: For that irresistible golden sheen, generously brush the entire surface of the puff pastry with the beaten egg wash. This egg wash not only provides a beautiful color but also contributes to a crispier crust. Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt flakes over the top for an added touch of flavor and texture. Place the pie in your preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the pastry is gloriously puffed up, deeply golden brown, and wonderfully crisp. The aroma filling your kitchen will be incredible!

Essential Cooking Tips for the Perfect Pie

Achieving a truly magnificent pie is all about a few key techniques. Here are some essential cooking tips to ensure your Turkey and Ham Pie turns out perfectly every time:

How to ensure the pastry crisps beautifully: Since this pie features only a top crust and no pastry base, you’re less likely to encounter soggy pastry. However, to guarantee a gorgeously golden and crisp top, there are a couple of tricks. I highly recommend brushing the top with only egg yolks (instead of a whole beaten egg) for an exceptionally deep, rich golden color and a superior crisp. Also, make sure to give it enough time in the oven for that color to really develop and the pastry to puff up completely. Don’t rush this step!

My pastry is browning too quickly: If you notice your puff pastry is getting too dark before the filling is thoroughly heated or the pastry has fully cooked through, don’t panic. Simply loosely cover the entire pie with a sheet of aluminum foil. This will protect the pastry from further browning while allowing the rest of the pie to continue cooking evenly underneath.

Preventing a wet filling: Ensure your creamy sauce is adequately thickened before adding the turkey and ham. A common mistake is not cooking the roux long enough or not simmering the sauce until it’s thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. A well-thickened sauce prevents a watery pie filling.

Resting is crucial: Once baked, resist the urge to slice into your pie immediately. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes out of the oven. This resting period allows the filling to set further, making it easier to serve neat slices and preventing the filling from spilling out.

Using cold pastry: Always work with puff pastry that is chilled but pliable. If it gets too warm, the butter layers can melt, resulting in a less flaky crust. If your kitchen is warm, you can pop the rolled-out pastry back into the fridge for 10-15 minutes before placing it on the pie.

Serving Suggestions for Your Savory Pie

This hearty Turkey and Ham Pie is a complete meal in itself, but it truly shines when paired with simple, complementary side dishes that enhance its rich flavors. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, vibrant green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect counterpoint to the rich, creamy pie. The freshness and acidity of the salad help balance the meal, adding a refreshing crunch.
• Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or asparagus are excellent choices. They provide a healthy, colorful accompaniment without overpowering the pie’s flavors. A drizzle of lemon butter over the vegetables would be a lovely touch.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For ultimate comfort, serve a dollop of fluffy mashed potatoes alongside your pie. The smooth texture of the potatoes pairs beautifully with the flaky pastry and creamy filling.
• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or a slice of sourdough bread is perfect for soaking up any delicious leftover sauce. It adds another textural element and ensures no flavor goes to waste.
• Roasted Root Vegetables: During colder months, roasted carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes can add a warm, earthy sweetness that complements the savory pie.

No matter what you choose, this Turkey and Ham Pie is sure to be the star of your dinner table, offering a truly satisfying and memorable dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Comfort Food Recipes You Might Enjoy:

If you loved this comforting recipe for turkey and ham pie, especially for using up those valuable Christmas leftovers, we’re confident you’ll appreciate these other delightful dishes:

• My hearty Turkey and Rice Soup is another fantastic way to utilize leftover turkey, turning it into a light yet satisfying meal perfect for a chilly day.
• For a more sophisticated but equally delicious option, try my Fig and Brie Tart – a wonderful appetizer or light lunch that feels incredibly indulgent.
• And if you’re looking for clever ways to use up any leftover vegetables, my robust Tomato Parmesan Bean Stew is both flavorful and incredibly versatile.

If you tried this Turkey and Ham Pie or any other recipe on the site, please do leave a rating or comment below and let us know how it went! Your feedback is invaluable and helps other home cooks discover delicious recipes.