There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, flaky pot pie filled with creamy chicken and vegetables. Whether you’re craving a homemade dinner or looking for a quick and easy meal, the Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe is a game-changer. Using Pillsbury refrigerated pie crust, you can create a delicious, golden-brown pot pie with minimal effort.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making the perfect pot pie, from choosing ingredients to troubleshooting common mistakes. You’ll learn how to keep the bottom crust from getting soggy, how to enhance the filling’s flavor, and even creative ways to switch things up with different variations.
So, grab your apron, preheat your oven, and let’s get started on baking a classic, mouthwatering pot pie that’s bound to impress!
Table of Contents
Introduction to Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe
What is a Pot Pie?
A pot pie is a hearty, savory dish filled with a rich, creamy mixture of meat and vegetables, all encased in a flaky pie crust. Unlike traditional pies, pot pies are baked in a dish and served warm, making them a perfect comfort food for any season.
Chicken pot pie is the most common variation, but you can find recipes featuring turkey, beef, seafood, or even vegetarian fillings. The crust, usually made of buttery pie dough, adds a crispy, golden layer that perfectly complements the creamy filling.
Why Pillsbury Pie Crust Makes It Easy
If you’ve ever struggled with homemade pie dough, you know it can be tricky to get it just right. That’s where Pillsbury refrigerated pie crust comes in handy! This ready-made crust is:
- Convenient – No mixing, rolling, or chilling required.
- Flaky and Buttery – Bakes up light and golden every time.
- Versatile – Works for sweet and savory pies alike.
Using Pillsbury pie dough cuts down prep time, allowing you to focus on making a rich, flavorful filling that brings the pot pie together.
The Appeal of a Homemade Comfort Food
Nothing beats the taste of a homemade meal, and a Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe delivers that warm, nostalgic flavor with ease. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is:
✔ Budget-friendly – Uses simple, everyday ingredients.
✔ Customizable – Swap out ingredients based on preference.
✔ Great for leftovers – A perfect way to use up rotisserie chicken or turkey.
Ingredients Needed for the Best Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe
Essential Ingredients for the Filling
A delicious Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for a creamy, flavorful filling:
✔ Cooked chicken or turkey – Rotisserie chicken works well for convenience. You can also repurpose leftover Thanksgiving turkey!
✔ Mixed vegetables – A frozen blend of carrots, peas, and corn saves time and adds color.
✔ Cream of chicken soup – This creates a rich, velvety texture for the filling.
✔ Milk or heavy cream – Adds creaminess and helps bind the filling together.
✔ Onion and garlic – Freshly diced onion and minced garlic bring depth to the flavor.
✔ Butter and flour – Used to make a quick roux that thickens the filling.
✔ Seasonings – Salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme or parsley enhance the taste.
Choosing the Right Pillsbury Pie Crust
The crust is just as essential as the filling! Pillsbury offers pre-made refrigerated pie crusts that are easy to use and bake into a golden, flaky shell. Here’s why they’re a great choice:
- Saves time – No need to make crust from scratch.
- Flaky and buttery – Provides a classic pot pie texture.
- Easy to work with – Rolls out smoothly and bakes evenly.
Want to make your own crust? Check out this Crisco Pie Crust Recipe for a homemade, buttery alternative!
Secret Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor
For an extra boost of flavor, try adding:
- A splash of white wine for depth.
- A teaspoon of Dijon mustard for subtle tanginess.
- Grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
With these ingredients, your pot pie will taste better than restaurant-quality!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe
Preparing the Pillsbury Pie Crust
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the bottom pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and press it gently into place.
- Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust to prevent air bubbles.
Making the Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Filling
- Sauté the aromatics – In a pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, stirring until soft.
- Make a roux – Sprinkle in flour and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes.
- Add liquids – Slowly pour in cream of chicken soup and milk, stirring to combine.
- Mix in the chicken and veggies – Toss in cooked chicken and frozen vegetables, then season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Simmer until thickened – Cook for 5-7 minutes until the filling is thick and creamy.
Assembling and Sealing the Pot Pie
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Roll out the top crust and place it over the filling.
- Seal the edges by crimping them with a fork or pinching them together.
- Make small slits in the top crust to let steam escape.
Baking Tips for a Perfect Golden Crust
- Brush with egg wash – This gives the crust a beautiful golden sheen.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes – The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Let it rest – Allow the pie to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe
How to Prevent a Soggy Bottom Crust
One of the most common issues with a Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe is ending up with a soggy bottom crust. But don’t worry—here are some foolproof ways to avoid that:
- Pre-bake the bottom crust – Blind bake the crust for 8-10 minutes at 375°F before adding the filling. This helps it stay crisp.
- Use a metal or glass pie dish – These conduct heat better than ceramic, ensuring a more even bake.
- Brush with egg white – A light coat of beaten egg white on the crust before adding the filling creates a barrier against moisture.
- Avoid an overly wet filling – If your filling is too runny, thicken it with a tablespoon of cornstarch before assembling the pie.
How to Thicken the Filling for a Richer Texture
Nobody wants a watery pot pie! To make your filling perfectly thick and creamy, try these tricks:
- Use a roux – Cooking butter and flour together before adding liquid creates a thick base.
- Let the filling simmer – Cook it for a few minutes until it thickens before pouring it into the crust.
- Use heavy cream instead of milk – This makes the filling richer and thicker.
- Add cornstarch or flour – If your filling looks too runny, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in.
Enhancing the Flavor with Spices and Herbs
A great Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe isn’t just about texture—it’s about flavor too! Elevate your pot pie with these add-ins:
- A pinch of nutmeg – Adds warmth and depth.
- Fresh thyme or rosemary – Brings a wonderful, herbaceous aroma.
- A splash of white wine – Enhances the richness of the sauce.
- Crushed red pepper flakes – For a little kick!
These small tweaks make a big difference in creating a pot pie that tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen!
Creative Variations of Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe
Mini Pot Pies and Hand Pies
If you love the taste of a Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe but want a fun twist, try making mini pot pies or hand pies instead!
- Mini Pot Pies – Use a muffin tin to make single-serving pot pies. Cut the Pillsbury pie crust into circles, press them into the cups, fill with the pot pie mixture, and top with another crust. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Hand Pies – Roll out the crust, cut it into rectangles, spoon in the filling, and fold it over. Crimp the edges, brush with egg wash, and bake for 15-20 minutes at 375°F.
Vegetarian and Seafood Pot Pie Variations
Not a fan of chicken? No problem! There are plenty of ways to switch up this classic dish:
- Vegetarian Pot Pie – Replace chicken with mushrooms, potatoes, and more veggies. Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken.
- Seafood Pot Pie – Swap out chicken for shrimp, salmon, or crab for a seafood twist! Use a combination of cream of celery soup and heavy cream to complement the seafood flavor.
Using Different Types of Crusts for a Unique Twist
The Pillsbury pie crust is flaky and buttery, but if you want to experiment, try these alternatives:
- Puff Pastry – Creates a light, crispy top layer.
- Biscuit Topping – Drop buttermilk biscuit dough on top before baking for a rustic feel.
- Mashed Potato Crust – Skip the pastry and use creamy mashed potatoes for a shepherd’s pie-style variation.
For another delicious comfort food recipe, check out this Mini Chicken Pot Pie Recipe for an easy, bite-sized version of this classic dish!
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even the best cooks can run into trouble when making a Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe. To ensure your pot pie turns out golden, flaky, and perfectly creamy, here are some common mistakes and how to fix them.
Why Does My Pot Pie Crust Get Soggy?
A soggy crust is one of the biggest complaints when making pot pies. To prevent this issue:
- Pre-bake the bottom crust – Blind baking for 8-10 minutes at 375°F helps crisp it up before adding the filling.
- Use a baking sheet – Placing your pie dish on a preheated baking sheet encourages even cooking.
- Let the filling cool slightly – Hot filling can create excess steam, leading to a mushy crust.
How to Prevent an Overly Dry Filling
A dry filling can ruin a Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe, making it less creamy and flavorful. Here’s how to fix it:
- Don’t overbake – Pot pies need about 35-40 minutes at 375°F. Overbaking evaporates moisture, leaving the filling dry.
- Use enough liquid – If your filling is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to keep it creamy.
- Cover with foil if needed – If the crust is browning too quickly but the filling isn’t bubbling, loosely cover it with foil to prevent overcooking.
Adjusting Cooking Times for Different Pie Sizes
Not all pies are the same size, so cooking times can vary:
- Mini pot pies – Bake for 20-25 minutes at 375°F.
- Deep-dish pot pies – May need up to 45 minutes. Check that the filling is bubbling before removing from the oven.
- Hand pies – Cook quickly, in about 15-20 minutes.
By following these tips, you’ll avoid the most common pot pie pitfalls and serve up a deliciously creamy and flaky meal every time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Got questions about the Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe? Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions!
How Do You Keep the Bottom Crust of Chicken Pot Pie from Getting Soggy?
To keep the bottom crust crisp:
- Pre-bake it for 8-10 minutes before adding the filling.
- Brush it with egg white to create a moisture barrier.
- Use a glass or metal pan for better heat distribution.
How to Improve Pillsbury Pie Crust?
Pillsbury’s refrigerated pie crust is already delicious, but you can enhance it with:
- An egg wash – Makes it golden and glossy.
- A sprinkle of sugar or salt – Adds extra flavor.
- Rolling it slightly thinner – Creates a crispier texture.
How Do You Use Pillsbury Pie Dough?
Pillsbury pie dough is ready to use, but follow these tips for best results:
- Let it come to room temperature before unrolling.
- Gently press it into the pie dish to avoid tearing.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges for a professional look.
What is the Best Thickening Agent for Pot Pie?
A thick filling is key to a great pot pie! The best options are:
- Flour or cornstarch – Mix with butter to create a roux.
- Heavy cream – Adds richness while thickening naturally.
- Mashed potatoes – A great alternative for gluten-free thickening.
Conclusion: Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe
A Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining a flaky, golden crust with a rich, creamy filling. Whether you’re making a classic chicken pot pie, a seafood twist, or a vegetarian version, Pillsbury’s ready-made pie crust makes the process quick, easy, and foolproof.
By following this guide, you now know how to:
✔ Prevent a soggy crust by pre-baking and using the right pie dish.
✔ Thicken the filling properly to get that rich, creamy texture.
✔ Enhance the flavor with the perfect blend of spices and add-ins.
✔ Avoid common mistakes so your pot pie turns out perfect every time!
Whether you’re making a traditional family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or experimenting with new flavors, this Pillsbury Pot Pie Recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So, grab your ingredients, roll out that crust, and get baking—because nothing beats the taste of a homemade, flaky, and delicious pot pie! 🥧😊
Happy cooking! 🍽️
Easy Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Pot Pie Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp poultry seasoning optional
- 1 1/2 cups frozen mixed vegetables peas, carrots, corn, and green beans
- For the Pie Crust:
- 1 box Pillsbury refrigerated pie crusts contains 2 crusts
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté onions and garlic for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in cream of chicken soup, milk, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add chicken and mixed vegetables, stirring until well combined.
- Step 2: Assemble the Pot Pie
- Unroll one Pillsbury pie crust and press it into a 9-inch pie pan.
- Pour the chicken filling into the crust.
- Place the second pie crust over the top, sealing the edges with your fingers or a fork.
- Cut 4-5 small slits in the top crust for steam to escape.
- Step 3: Bake Until Golden
- Brush the top crust with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Let the pot pie cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Slice and serve warm with a side salad or mashed potatoes.
Notes
For a crispier crust, bake the bottom crust for 5 minutes before adding the filling.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.