Turkey a la King

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about serving up a plate of Turkey a la King on a chilly fall evening. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma wafting through my kitchen brought back memories of family gatherings during Thanksgiving. The creamy texture, combined with tender pieces of turkey, savory vegetables, and that flaky puff pastry, makes it a dish that feels like a warm embrace. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or a festive occasion, this recipe is a nostalgic reminder of simpler times. I love how versatile it is, transforming leftover turkey into a delightful meal. It’s not just a dish; it’s a story of love, comfort, and tradition that I can’t wait to share with you!

What You’ll Need for Turkey a la King

To create a masterpiece of rich flavors and comforting textures, it’s essential to use quality ingredients. Each component in Turkey a la King plays a crucial role, from the crispy puff pastry shells to the creamy sauce that envelops the turkey and vegetables. Let’s dive into the key players that come together to make this dish truly special.

• 6 whole Puff Pastry Shells: These flaky shells are the perfect vessel for holding all the delicious fillings. They add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
• 2 Tablespoons Butter: This is what starts our flavor base. It helps sauté the onions and mushrooms, creating a rich, buttery foundation.
• ½ cup Minced Onion or Shallot: Onions add a sweet, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• 2 Tablespoons All-purpose Flour: This helps thicken the creamy sauce, giving it a perfect consistency that clings to the turkey and vegetables.
• 1 cup Chicken Broth: The broth adds depth and savory notes that are essential for a flavorful sauce.
• ¾ cup Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and luscious, adding that comforting creaminess everyone loves.
• 1/8 teaspoon Poultry Seasoning: A classic seasoning that blends well with the turkey, enhancing its flavor.
• 1 pinch Ground Thyme: Thyme adds an earthy note that complements the other flavors beautifully.
• Salt and Pepper to taste: Essential for balancing all the flavors in the dish.
• 1 ½ cup Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey or Chicken: The star of our dish! Tender turkey adds protein and heartiness.
• ½ cup Steamed Broccoli: Adding some color and nutrients, broccoli gives a nice crunch and freshness.
• 8 oz Mushrooms sliced: Mushrooms add umami flavor and a meaty texture that pairs perfectly with the turkey.
• 1 cup Frozen Vegetables of Your Choice (peas and carrots preferred): A mix of vegetables brings additional flavors and nutrients to the dish.

How to Cook Turkey a la King

Making Turkey a la King is a delightful experience that combines the comforting flavors of home. The steps are straightforward and rewarding, allowing you to create a dish that feels special without too much hassle. Let’s jump in and see how to bring this wonderful recipe to life!

1. Start by baking your puff pastry shells according to the package directions. The goal is to achieve a golden-brown, flaky exterior. Keep an eye on them as they bake, as they can turn from perfect to overdone quickly.
2. While the pastry shells are baking, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced onion and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes until they become tender. Stir occasionally and enjoy the aroma that fills your kitchen.
3. After the onions and mushrooms are tender, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. This will create a roux that helps thicken your sauce. Stir continuously for about one minute to cook the flour slightly.
4. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to break up any lumps from the flour. As you stir, increase the heat to medium-high and let the sauce come to a gentle boil. This will help thicken the sauce beautifully.
5. Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to medium-low. Now, stir in the heavy cream, poultry seasoning, ground thyme, salt, and pepper. These ingredients will enhance the flavor and create that creamy goodness we all love.
6. Gently fold in the leftover turkey and steamed broccoli, mixing everything until well combined. Allow the mixture to warm through on low heat, ensuring the turkey is heated without overcooking it.
7. Next, add in your frozen vegetables. If you’re using peas and carrots, they will add a nice pop of color and sweetness to your dish.
8. Keep the mixture warm on the stove top until you are ready to serve. The flavors will continue to meld together beautifully.
9. When the puff pastry shells are ready, remove them from the oven. Carefully cut out the center of each shell to create a pocket.
10. Finally, spoon the creamy turkey mixture into each puff pastry shell. Serve immediately while everything is warm and the pastry is still crispy. Enjoy!

Variations to Try

Once you master the traditional Turkey a la King, you might want to explore some exciting variations. Here are a few ideas to consider that can add a twist to this classic recipe.

• Use Different Proteins: Instead of turkey, try using chicken, or even a mix of seafood for a delightful variation.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to include spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the dish.
• Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne or paprika for an extra kick that brings a new depth to the sauce.
• Switch Up the Base: In place of puff pastry, consider serving this over rice, noodles, or even mashed potatoes for a different twist.
• Make It a Casserole: Transfer the filling to a baking dish, top with a layer of cheese, and bake until bubbly for a cheesy version.
• Garnish Creatively: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving to add a burst of color and freshness.
• Individual Servings: Instead of one large dish, serve the filling in small ramekins topped with pastry for a lovely presentation!

How to Enjoy Turkey a la King

• Perfect for Family Dinners: Turkey a la King is a wonderful dish to serve for family dinners, especially during the fall season when comfort food is a must.
• Ideal for Gatherings: Whether it’s a festive gathering or a casual get-together, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.
• Accompany with Salad: Serve it alongside a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. A simple vinaigrette will do wonders!
• Leftover Magic: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be reheated easily the next day.
• Winter Warm-Up: This dish is especially comforting during colder months, making it a great choice for winter dinners.
• Pair with Wine: A light white wine can complement the creamy sauce beautifully, enhancing your dining experience.
• Seasonal Touch: Enjoy it during Thanksgiving or other family holidays when turkey is in abundance!

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Turkey a la King is a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to the dining table, transforming leftover turkey into an irresistible meal. I encourage you to try this recipe, whether it’s for a family dinner or a festive gathering. It’s a beautiful way to enjoy the flavors of the season while creating new memories around the table.

Turkey a la King

The ultimate comfort food, Turkey a la King is creamy, rich, and filled with tender turkey and vegetables. It's an easy weeknight dinner that transforms turkey leftovers into a delightful meal. Make it tonight for a taste of nostalgia!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 whole Puff Pastry Shells
• 2 Tablespoons Butter
• ½ cup Minced Onion or Shallot
• 2 Tablespoons All-purpose Flour
• 1 cup Chicken Broth
• ¾ cup Heavy Cream
• 1/8 teaspoon Poultry Seasoning
• 1 pinch Ground Thyme
• to taste Salt And Pepper
• 1 ½ cup Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey or Chicken
• ½ cup Steamed Broccoli
• 8 oz Mushrooms sliced
• 1 cup Frozen Vegetables Of Your Choice

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Baking Sheet
• Frying Pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. 1. Bake puff pastry shells according to package directions.
2. 2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and saute onions and mushrooms until tender, 3-5 minutes.
3. 3. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute.
4. 4. Increase heat to medium high. Slowly whisk in chicken broth. Let the sauce come to a boil to thicken.
5. 5. Reduce heat to medium low and stir in cream, poultry seasoning, thyme, salt, pepper, turkey, and vegetables.
6. 6. Keep warm on the stove top until ready to serve.
7. 7. To serve, remove the center of a puff pastry shell and pour in the mixture.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; just reheat in the oven for best results.
• Pairing: Serve with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
• Variation: Try different proteins like chicken or seafood for a different twist!
• Seasonal Touch: Enjoy it during Thanksgiving or family holidays.

Previous PostApple Slab Pie

Next Post One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells

Meet Carmen Rhoades

Precision is key to a perfect feast, and I apply that rigor to everything I do here. I am deeply involved in measuring, timing, and refining the techniques behind our recipes. I have cooked this dish multiple times, troubleshooting every step so that your experience in the kitchen is seamless and successful.