Thanksgiving Leftovers Man Pies

Got leftovers?  Check out this fun and easy recipe for Thanksgiving Leftovers Man Pies.  Its simple.  You’ve done most of the work and gone over the top to make your thanksgiving perfect for those you love.  You’ve collapsed from exhaustion.  The food coma has come and gone.  You’ve run the entire gambit of emotions.  All that remains is leftovers.

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Getting Creative with Leftovers

If you are anything like our family, there is always a ridiculous amount of food.  We love to eat.  Even after the leftovers, there are always leftovers. This morning when I was getting cream for my coffee, I just stood and stared at the onslaught of leftovers. They were staring right back eat me, taunting me, laughing.  Or maybe I was still in a haze from my Thanksgiving feast.  Whatever the case…I had an idea.  Pie.

If I am hungry and there is pie around, its really a no brainer.  A knife, a slice, a plate…Done.  Out of the fridge and into my belly.  It’s just that simple.

Necessity is the mother of invention with these Thanksgiving Leftovers Man Pies.  How could I recreate my thanksgiving plate into a pie.  All those wonderful flavors in one easy to grab delight.  I decided it had to have 3 qualities to make it worthwhile:

1. It has to be easy.
2. It has to be jam packed with flavor
3. and well…it had to be easy

Even before you begin, 95% of the work is already done.  I like that, a lot.  The last 5% is easy.  Using Heathers Simple Pizza Dough recipe, it will come together in no time.

Special note:

I have to say I’ve never been a fan of cranberry sauce.  It just doesn’t float my boat.  Heather made a batch of cranberry sauce and told me I should try it.  Reluctantly I gave in and all I can say is “WOW!!” This sweet and tart miracle is now one of my favorites. For me, it really pulled together these Thanksgiving Leftovers Man Pies.  Check out this favorite Cranberry Sauce recipe from Epicurious.

Variations of the Thanksgiving Leftovers Man Pies

• Vegetarian Twist- For a vegetarian version, skip the turkey and use more vegetables or plant-based meat alternatives.
• Spicy Kick- Incorporate some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the filling for a spicy twist.
• Cheesy Goodness- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the filling for the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy, gooey element.
• Sweet and Savory- Add a touch of sweetness by including some caramelized onions or a dollop of sweet potato puree alongside the savory leftovers.
• Herb-Infused Butter- Mix some chopped fresh herbs into the melted butter for a burst of flavor in the crust.
• Man Pie Toppings- After baking, top each mini pie with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chives, or a few fresh herbs for added visual appeal and taste.
• Appetizers- Use a mini muffin pan for bite-sized man pies. Adjust baking time to 8-10 minutes.
• Herb-Infused Dough- Add dried or fresh herbs like rosemary, oregano, or thyme to the dough for an aromatic twist.
• Cheesy Dough- Mix in shredded cheese for a flavorful and cheesy crust. Cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan work well.
• Spicy Dough- Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

 Helpful Hints

• Roll out the dough on a well-floured surface to prevent sticking.
• Work quickly during assembly so the dough doesn’t get too warm and rise before baking.
• Let the baked pies cool for 5 minutes before removing from the pan so they hold their shape.
• Freeze any leftover dough to use for pizza crust or bread later on. 
• Make-Ahead Instructions- The unbaked pies can be assembled a day ahead. Simply follow the recipe up until placing the filled pies in the oven. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. The next day, allow the pies to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reheat leftovers?

Leftover man pies can be reheated in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. They also reheat well in the microwave.

Can I prepare the pies ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pies a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. You can also freeze baked pies for up to 3 months.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Refrigerate any uneaten pies within 2 hours of baking. Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Pies can also be frozen for longer storage.

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, substitute an equal amount of your favorite gluten-free flour blend in the dough recipe. The pies may need an additional 2-3 minutes of baking time.

Bake at 450º for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is a golden brown.  Enjoy these Thanksgiving Leftovers Man Pies!