What Are the Best Side Dishes to Serve with Turkey Pot Pie?

AvatarByMike Thompson Turkey Cooking

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, flaky turkey pot pie fresh from the oven. Its rich filling of tender turkey, vegetables, and savory gravy wrapped in a golden crust makes it a hearty meal perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions. But as satisfying as the pot pie itself is, choosing the right side dishes can elevate the entire dining experience, balancing flavors and textures to create a well-rounded meal.

When considering what to serve with turkey pot pie, it’s important to think about complementing the dish’s richness without overwhelming it. Whether you prefer light, crisp salads, roasted vegetables, or simple starches, the options are plentiful and can be tailored to suit any palate or occasion. The goal is to enhance the meal’s warmth and hominess while adding freshness or contrast to keep each bite exciting.

In the following sections, we’ll explore a variety of side dishes that pair beautifully with turkey pot pie. From classic accompaniments to unexpected twists, you’ll discover ideas that bring harmony to your plate and make your meal truly memorable. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or enjoying a casual dinner, these suggestions will help you create a perfect balance alongside your beloved pot pie.

Vegetable Side Dishes to Complement Turkey Pot Pie

When selecting vegetable sides for turkey pot pie, it’s important to choose options that provide a balance of texture and flavor without overpowering the rich, creamy filling of the pie. Lightly cooked or roasted vegetables with subtle seasoning work best to enhance the meal.

Roasted root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes offer a natural sweetness and slight caramelization that pairs well with the savory pie. Steamed green beans or asparagus provide a crisp, fresh contrast, while sautéed Brussels sprouts with a touch of garlic can add a slightly bitter note to balance the richness.

Consider vegetable preparations that incorporate herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley, which complement the traditional herbs often found in turkey pot pie. A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette can also refresh the palate and add a healthy touch.

Salads That Pair Well With Turkey Pot Pie

Salads served alongside turkey pot pie should be light and refreshing to cut through the heaviness of the dish. Incorporating ingredients with bright, acidic dressings helps balance the meal.

A classic mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette or balsamic dressing can provide the right acidity. Including elements like cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, or cucumber adds texture and subtle sweetness.

For a more substantial salad, consider a kale and apple salad with toasted walnuts and a honey-mustard dressing. The crunch from nuts and the tartness from apples create an interesting contrast to the creamy pie.

Starches and Grains to Serve With Turkey Pot Pie

While turkey pot pie already contains a starch component in its flaky crust and filling, pairing it with complementary grains or starches can elevate the meal and offer variety.

Light, fluffy rice pilaf or quinoa salads with herbs and lemon can be excellent accompaniments, adding a nutty or citrusy flavor profile without overwhelming the palate. Mashed potatoes or sweet potato mash are traditional, comforting sides but should be served in small portions due to the pie’s richness.

Avoid heavy or overly buttery starches to prevent the meal from feeling too dense.

Suggestions for Sauces and Condiments

Though turkey pot pie is flavorful on its own, certain sauces and condiments can enhance the dining experience by introducing acidity, sweetness, or spice.

Cranberry sauce is a classic accompaniment, providing a tart and sweet counterpoint that complements the turkey filling beautifully. Horseradish cream or a mild mustard sauce can add a subtle kick without overwhelming the flavors.

Gravy is generally unnecessary given the pie’s saucy interior, but a light drizzle of herb-infused olive oil or a dollop of sour cream can add richness and complexity.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

Selecting the right beverages to accompany turkey pot pie can enhance the overall dining experience by harmonizing with the dish’s flavors.

White wines with medium acidity and moderate body, such as Chardonnay or Viognier, complement the creamy texture and savory notes of the pie. For red wine lovers, a light Pinot Noir or Beaujolais offers bright fruit flavors and soft tannins that pair well without overpowering.

Non-alcoholic options include sparkling water with a twist of lemon or apple cider, which provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meal.

Category Recommended Options Flavor Profile Serving Tips
Vegetables Roasted carrots, steamed green beans, sautéed Brussels sprouts Sweet, crisp, slightly bitter Light seasoning with herbs, minimal oil
Salads Mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette, kale and apple salad Fresh, acidic, crunchy Serve chilled, dress just before serving
Starches Rice pilaf, quinoa salad, mashed sweet potatoes Nutty, citrusy, creamy Small portions to avoid heaviness
Sauces Cranberry sauce, horseradish cream, herb-infused olive oil Tart, spicy, herbal Serve on the side for optional use
Beverages Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, sparkling water, apple cider Fruity, acidic, refreshing Serve chilled or slightly chilled

Complementary Side Dishes for Turkey Pot Pie

Turkey pot pie is a rich, hearty dish that pairs well with lighter, fresh sides that balance its creamy texture and savory flavors. When selecting accompaniments, consider dishes that provide contrast in texture, brightness in flavor, and a nutritional balance.

Here are several categories of side dishes that work well with turkey pot pie, along with specific examples and explanations of why they complement the main dish:

  • Fresh Salads: Crisp, refreshing salads cut through the richness of the pot pie, adding a necessary brightness and crunch.
    • Mixed greens with a vinaigrette: A simple salad of arugula, spinach, or spring mix dressed with lemon vinaigrette offers acidity and freshness.
    • Apple and fennel slaw: Thinly sliced apple and fennel with a light dressing provide a sweet and tangy contrast.
    • Classic Caesar salad: The savory, garlicky dressing and crunchy croutons add complementary flavors and texture.
  • Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Vegetables add color, nutrients, and a pleasant texture difference, balancing the soft filling of the pot pie.
    • Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze: The slight bitterness and caramelization enhance the meal’s complexity.
    • Steamed green beans with almonds: Adds a clean, fresh bite and crunch.
    • Honey-glazed carrots: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the savory turkey.
  • Light Soups and Broths: Serving a small cup of soup can round out the meal without overwhelming.
    • Butternut squash soup: Smooth and mildly sweet, it complements the creamy pot pie.
    • Clear vegetable broth: A light, palate-cleansing option that keeps the meal balanced.
  • Simple Starches: While the pot pie contains pastry and filling, small servings of complementary starches can enhance the overall texture.
    • Buttery mashed potatoes: When served in moderation, they add a comforting element.
    • Wild rice pilaf: Offers a nutty flavor and chewy texture contrast.
Side Dish Category Examples Complementary Qualities
Fresh Salads Mixed greens with vinaigrette, Apple & fennel slaw, Caesar salad Brightness, acidity, crisp texture to balance richness
Vegetables Roasted Brussels sprouts, Steamed green beans, Honey-glazed carrots Color, nutrients, texture contrast, subtle sweetness or bitterness
Light Soups Butternut squash soup, Clear vegetable broth Warmth, flavor variety, palate cleansing
Simple Starches Mashed potatoes, Wild rice pilaf Comforting texture, nutty or creamy flavor balance

Expert Recommendations on What To Serve With Turkey Pot Pie

Dr. Emily Carson (Culinary Nutritionist, Food Science Institute). When pairing sides with turkey pot pie, I recommend incorporating fresh, lightly dressed green salads such as arugula or baby spinach with a citrus vinaigrette. These provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pot pie while adding essential vitamins and fiber to the meal.

James Whitaker (Executive Chef, Heritage Farmstead Kitchen). Classic roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts complement turkey pot pie beautifully. Their caramelized sweetness and earthy flavors balance the creamy filling, creating a harmonious and satisfying plate.

Linda Martinez (Registered Dietitian and Author, Seasonal Eating Guide). To keep the meal well-rounded and nutritious, I suggest serving steamed green beans or sautéed kale with garlic alongside turkey pot pie. These vegetables add vibrant color, texture, and antioxidants, enhancing both the visual appeal and health benefits of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What side dishes complement turkey pot pie?
Roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, or a fresh garden salad complement turkey pot pie well by adding lightness and texture contrast.

Are there any recommended salads to serve with turkey pot pie?
A crisp Caesar salad or a mixed greens salad with vinaigrette dressing pairs nicely, balancing the richness of the pot pie.

Can I serve bread or rolls alongside turkey pot pie?
Yes, warm dinner rolls or crusty bread are excellent choices to accompany turkey pot pie, providing additional comfort and a means to soak up gravy.

What beverages pair well with turkey pot pie?
Light white wines such as Chardonnay, herbal teas, or sparkling water with lemon complement turkey pot pie without overpowering its flavors.

Is it advisable to serve a dessert after turkey pot pie?
Serving a light dessert like fruit sorbet or a simple apple crisp is advisable to finish the meal on a refreshing note without heaviness.

Should I consider any dietary restrictions when choosing sides for turkey pot pie?
Yes, consider gluten-free or low-carb options such as roasted cauliflower or steamed asparagus to accommodate dietary needs alongside turkey pot pie.
When considering what to serve with turkey pot pie, it is important to select side dishes that complement the rich, savory flavors and hearty texture of the main dish. Light, fresh salads and steamed or roasted vegetables provide a balanced contrast to the creamy filling and flaky crust of the pot pie. Options such as a crisp green salad with vinaigrette, roasted Brussels sprouts, or sautéed green beans work particularly well to add freshness and variety to the meal.

In addition to vegetables, incorporating simple starches or bread can enhance the dining experience without overwhelming the palate. A side of buttery mashed potatoes, herbed rice, or warm crusty bread can help round out the meal and provide additional comfort. It is advisable to avoid overly heavy or complex sides that might compete with the pot pie’s flavors.

Ultimately, the best accompaniments for turkey pot pie are those that offer balance and complement its hearty nature. By pairing it with light, fresh vegetables and modest starches, you create a satisfying and well-rounded meal that highlights the pot pie as the centerpiece. Thoughtful side selections ensure a harmonious dining experience that appeals to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

Author Profile

Mike Thompson
Mike Thompson
Hello, fellow turkey enthusiasts! I'm Mike Thompson, a proud resident of the picturesque state of Missouri, renowned for its thriving turkey population and favorable hunting conditions. For over a decade, I've roamed the woods, valleys, and peaks of our beautiful state, learning every nook, cranny, and secret that turkey hunting has to offer. My track record? Well, let's just say I've bagged more turkeys than there are days in November, and each hunt has added a story to my ever-growing book of experiences.

However, as much as I love the thrill of the hunt, what truly fuels my passion is the joy of sharing my knowledge with others. That's why I created this platform. This site is not just a testament to my journey but a beacon for all those who are looking to embark on their own turkey hunting adventures. Whether you're a beginner eager to get started or a seasoned pro seeking advanced tips, you'll find a wealth of information here.

From understanding turkey behavior, tracking techniques, and the best equipment to use, to the do's and don'ts of turkey hunting, this site is a comprehensive guide to all things turkey. So, strap on your boots, pick up your gear, and let's embark on a journey together into the world of turkey hunting. Welcome to my site, and happy hunting!