Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty pot pie to bring comfort to the table, and with Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe or Pillsbury Biscuits, making a homemade pot pie has never been easier. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or looking to repurpose leftovers, this recipe delivers a golden, flaky crust with a creamy and savory filling that’s loaded with tender chicken and vegetables.
The beauty of this Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. By using pre-made Pillsbury crusts or biscuits, you can save time in the kitchen without sacrificing that homemade taste. Plus, the filling can be customized to suit your preferences—swap out the chicken for turkey, add extra veggies, or even make a vegetarian version.
In this guide, we’ll walk you step-by-step through making a delicious Pillsbury Pot Pie from scratch using simple ingredients and easy techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Let’s get started and bake up a pot pie that’s as impressive as it is comforting!
Looking for more easy dinner ideas? Check out these Ground Chicken Recipes for quick, protein-packed meals.
Why Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe Is a Perfect Choice
Quick and Easy to Make
One of the best things about making a Pillsbury Pot Pie is how quick and simple the process is. By using Pillsbury refrigerated pie crusts or biscuits, you skip the time-consuming steps of preparing homemade dough. The crust comes ready to roll, saving you effort without sacrificing flavor or texture.
This recipe is ideal for:
- Busy weeknights when you need a hearty meal on the table fast.
- Beginner cooks who want an easy yet impressive dish.
- Repurposing leftovers, like rotisserie chicken or holiday turkey, into something delicious and satisfying.
With just a few steps—prepare the filling, assemble the pie, and bake—you’ll have a warm, comforting meal ready in under an hour!
Family-Friendly Comfort Food
Pot pies are a classic comfort food, loved by both kids and adults alike. The creamy chicken and vegetable filling paired with the golden, flaky crust is a winning combination that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
This recipe is perfect for:
- Family dinners: Serve individual pot pies or slice up a larger one for a comforting meal that brings everyone to the table.
- Picky eaters: You can easily sneak in extra vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn without complaints.
- Leftovers: The filling can be made ahead of time, and the pot pie can be reheated for a quick lunch or dinner the next day.
Plus, the portion sizes can be adjusted to make mini pot pies for kids or larger pies for family-style meals.
Versatile and Customizable for Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe
One of the standout features of a Pillsbury Pot Pie is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some ways to customize your pot pie:
- Different Proteins:
- Swap the chicken for turkey, ground beef, or shredded pork. Leftover holiday meats work beautifully in this dish.
- Vegetarian Option:
- Skip the meat and use a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, broccoli, green beans, or butternut squash. Add chickpeas or white beans for protein.
- Flavor Boosters:
- Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to enhance the filling. A pinch of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or nutmeg also adds depth.
- Alternate Crust Options:
- Instead of a traditional pie crust, try using Pillsbury Grands Biscuits for a fluffy, golden topping.
- Use Puff Pastry for a gourmet twist that’s light, flaky, and crispy.
- Mini Pot Pies:
- For parties or individual servings, prepare the pot pies in muffin tins or ramekins. They’re easy to serve and look adorable on the table!
No matter how you customize it, Pillsbury Pot Pie remains a versatile dish that delivers big on flavor and convenience.
Ingredients for Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe
Essential Ingredients for the Filling
The creamy, savory filling is the heart of a delicious pot pie. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Filling:
- Cooked Chicken (2 cups, shredded or diced):
- Use rotisserie chicken, leftover roasted chicken, or boil and shred two boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
- Vegetables (2 cups total):
- A classic mix of:
- Frozen peas (1/2 cup)
- Diced carrots (1/2 cup)
- Corn kernels (1/2 cup)
- Chopped celery (1/2 cup)
- A classic mix of:
- Butter (3 tablespoons):
- Adds richness to the filling and helps sauté the vegetables.
- All-Purpose Flour (3 tablespoons):
- Used to thicken the creamy sauce.
- Chicken Broth (1 1/2 cups):
- Provides a flavorful, savory base for the sauce. Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
- Heavy Cream or Milk (1/2 cup):
- Creates a smooth and creamy texture. For a lighter version, use whole milk.
- Seasonings:
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste)
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon)
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon)
- Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon, optional)
- Fresh Herbs (Optional):
- Sprinkle in fresh parsley or thyme to add brightness and a pop of color.
Pillsbury Dough for the Crust ( Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe )
The crust is what makes this pot pie irresistibly flaky and golden. Pillsbury offers several options that make this recipe quick, easy, and foolproof:
- Pillsbury Refrigerated Pie Crust:
- This is the classic option for a traditional pot pie. It’s ready to roll and provides a buttery, flaky crust.
- You’ll need 1 box (2 crusts): one for the bottom layer and one for the top.
- Pillsbury Grands! Biscuits:
- For a fun and fluffy twist, use Pillsbury Grands Biscuits as a topping instead of pie crust. They bake into a golden, fluffy layer over the creamy filling.
- Puff Pastry (Optional):
- If you prefer a more gourmet, flaky finish, substitute Pillsbury pie crust with puff pastry sheets.
- Egg Wash (For a Golden Finish):
- 1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water for brushing the top crust. This gives it a beautiful golden-brown shine.
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions for Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe
- Protein Options:
- Replace chicken with leftover turkey, beef, or even ham. For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add extra hearty vegetables or white beans.
- Vegetable Variations:
- Add or substitute vegetables like green beans, mushrooms, diced potatoes, or broccoli. Use fresh or frozen veggies for convenience.
- Dairy-Free Options:
- Replace butter with olive oil and heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
- Herbs and Spices:
- Customize the filling with herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley. A pinch of smoked paprika or nutmeg can also add depth.
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Pillsbury Pot Pie
Preparing the Chicken and Veggie Filling
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter.
- Add the diced carrots, celery, and corn. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
- Make the Sauce:
- Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add the Cream and Seasonings:
- Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or milk to make the sauce rich and creamy.
- Add the seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme for an extra savory flavor.
- Mix in the Chicken:
- Fold in 2 cups of shredded or diced cooked chicken. Stir until the chicken is fully coated in the creamy sauce and everything is heated through.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and set the filling aside to cool slightly.
Assembling the Pot Pie With Pillsbury Crust
- Prepare the Pie Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out one Pillsbury refrigerated pie crust and press it into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan. Make sure it’s evenly spread across the base and up the sides.
- Add the Filling:
- Spoon the cooled chicken and vegetable filling into the pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Top the Pie With Crust:
- Roll out the second Pillsbury pie crust and place it over the filling. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges and pinch the top and bottom crusts together to seal.
- Use a fork or your fingers to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
- Create Steam Vents:
- Cut 4–5 small slits in the top crust with a sharp knife. This allows steam to escape while the pot pie bakes.
- Brush With Egg Wash:
- In a small bowl, beat 1 egg with 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the top crust lightly with the egg wash. This will give your pot pie a beautiful golden, glossy finish.
Baking to Golden Perfection
- Bake the Pot Pie:
- Place the assembled pot pie on the center rack of the preheated oven.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly around the edges.
- Check the Crust:
- If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them loosely with strips of aluminum foil or a pie shield to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the pot pie from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Tips for Assembling and Baking Success
- Keep the Crust Cold:
- Cold pie crust bakes up flakier and crisper. If the dough becomes too soft while assembling, refrigerate the pie for 10 minutes before baking.
- Prevent Soggy Bottom Crust:
- Sprinkle a little flour or brush a thin layer of beaten egg white on the bottom crust before adding the filling. This creates a barrier that helps the crust stay crisp.
- Mini Pot Pies Option:
- For individual servings, use ramekins or a muffin tin. Cut the pie crust into smaller circles to line and top each ramekin or muffin cup. Adjust the baking time to 20–25 minutes.
Tips for the Best Pillsbury Pot Pie
Ensuring a Golden, Flaky Crust
- Use an Egg Wash:
- Brush the top crust with a mixture of 1 beaten egg and 1 tablespoon of water. This creates a beautiful, golden-brown sheen as the pie bakes.
- Keep the Crust Cold:
- A chilled crust bakes flakier and holds its shape better. If the dough gets too soft while assembling, refrigerate the pie for 10–15 minutes before baking.
- Prevent Over-Browning:
- If the edges of the crust are browning too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie crust shield halfway through baking.
- Vent for Steam:
- Always cut slits into the top crust to allow steam to escape. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy or puffing up unevenly.
Adding Extra Flavor to the Filling
While the classic filling is delicious, you can enhance it with these simple additions:
- Herbs and Spices:
- Add a pinch of fresh or dried thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a fragrant boost. A dash of smoked paprika or nutmeg can add depth to the creamy filling.
- Cheese:
- Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan to the filling for a cheesy twist that complements the chicken and vegetables.
- Creamy Shortcut:
- Replace the heavy cream and broth with 1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup mixed with 1/2 cup of milk. This makes the filling even creamier and saves time.
- Vegetable Variety:
- Add or swap vegetables like green beans, mushrooms, diced potatoes, or spinach for a customized, heartier filling.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
Pillsbury Pot Pies are excellent for meal prep and freezing. Here’s how to save time and enjoy pot pies anytime:
- Make Ahead (Unbaked):
- Assemble the pot pie but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Bake as directed when ready.
- Freezing Before Baking:
- Assemble the pot pie and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To bake from frozen, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 45–50 minutes, covering the edges with foil if needed.
- Freezing After Baking:
- Allow the baked pot pie to cool completely. Wrap individual slices or the whole pie in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat frozen slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.
- Reheating Leftovers:
- Reheat leftover pot pie in the oven for the best results. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
Creative Twists on the Classic Pillsbury Pot Pie
Using Different Proteins Like Turkey or Beef
This recipe is easily adaptable with other proteins:
- Leftover Turkey: Perfect for repurposing Thanksgiving leftovers. Use turkey instead of chicken for a similar flavor.
- Ground Beef: Brown 1 pound of ground beef, drain the excess fat, and add it to the creamy vegetable mixture for a beef pot pie.
- Ham: Dice up leftover ham and combine it with peas, corn, and carrots for a comforting ham pot pie.
Mini Pot Pies With Pillsbury Biscuits
For a fun and easy twist, use Pillsbury Grands! Biscuits instead of pie crust:
- Line the bottom of a muffin tin with biscuit dough (optional).
- Add the creamy chicken and vegetable filling.
- Top each muffin cup with another biscuit or flatten the dough to cover the filling.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until the biscuits are golden and puffed.
These individual pot pies are perfect for kids, parties, or quick meals!
Vegetarian Pillsbury Pot Pie Options
To make a vegetarian pot pie:
- Replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, or zucchini.
- Add a protein boost with chickpeas, white beans, or lentils.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the creamy sauce.
The result is a flavorful, satisfying meat-free pot pie that’s just as comforting as the classic version.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
What to Serve With Pillsbury Pot Pie
A hearty Pillsbury Pot Pie pairs perfectly with simple side dishes to create a well-rounded, comforting meal. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Fresh Salads:
- A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pot pie. Try an arugula salad, mixed greens, or a classic Caesar salad.
- Roasted Vegetables:
- Serve with roasted asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for an extra serving of vegetables.
- Mashed Potatoes:
- A scoop of creamy mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the pot pie.
- Bread or Dinner Rolls:
- Add warm, buttery dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up any extra filling from the pot pie.
- Fruit Compote or Cranberry Sauce:
- For a sweet contrast, serve with a side of cranberry sauce or a fruit compote—perfect during the holidays!
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Refrigerating Leftovers:
- Let the pot pie cool completely before storing. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Leftovers:
- Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions:
- From the Refrigerator: Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until heated through.
- From the Freezer: Bake frozen slices at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes or until fully warmed.
- Avoid the Microwave: While convenient, microwaving may make the crust soft and soggy. Reheating in the oven ensures the crust remains crisp.
FAQs About Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe
Can I Use Pillsbury Biscuits Instead of Pie Crust?
Yes! Pillsbury Grands! Biscuits make an excellent alternative to pie crust. Simply place biscuits on top of the filling and bake until golden and cooked through. Adjust the baking time to about 20–25 minutes.
How Do I Prevent a Soggy Bottom Crust?
To avoid a soggy crust:
- Pre-bake (blind bake) the bottom crust for 5–7 minutes before adding the filling.
- Sprinkle a light dusting of flour or brush the bottom crust with a thin layer of egg white to create a barrier.
Can I Make Pillsbury Pot Pie Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the pot pie, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. You can also freeze the unbaked pie and bake it straight from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to the baking time.
Can I Use Leftover Turkey or Beef?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for repurposing leftover holiday turkey, roast beef, or ham. Simply replace the chicken with your desired protein and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Can I Freeze the Pot Pie Before Baking?
Yes. Assemble the pot pie and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, place it in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for 45–50 minutes, covering the edges if needed to prevent burning.
Conclusion
The Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe is a perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and flavor. By using Pillsbury Pie Crust or Pillsbury Biscuits, you can create a golden, flaky pot pie with a rich, creamy chicken and vegetable filling in no time. This family-friendly dish is versatile, easy to customize, and ideal for busy weeknights, holidays, or meal prepping.
Whether you’re using leftover chicken, turkey, or beef, or adding your favorite vegetables and spices, this recipe is adaptable to suit your needs. The combination of a buttery crust and savory filling guarantees a crowd-pleasing meal every time.
So, preheat your oven, grab your favorite Pillsbury crust, and enjoy a homemade pot pie that delivers all the warmth and comfort of a classic dish.
Looking for more hearty dinner ideas? Try these Diced Chicken Recipes for quick and flavorful meals that everyone will love. Happy baking! 🥧✨