Try out this recipe for “Pilgrim’s Pie.” You can taste all of Thanksgiving in a single bite!

Pilgrim's Pie is a heartwarming and festive recipe that embodies the spirit of Thanksgiving in every bite. This unique dish is a delightful twist on the classic Thanksgiving dinner, combining all the beloved flavors of the holiday into one comforting and convenient casserole. Perfect for gatherings, this casserole brings together succulent ground turkey, aromatic vegetables, and savory herbs in a flavorful base, layered with homemade stuffing and creamy mashed potatoes. Topped with buttery breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch and served with optional turkey gravy, this dish is a modern nod to traditional Thanksgiving fare that would surely have made the pilgrims proud.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and the ease of preparation, making it an ideal choice for both experienced cooks and novices alike. The recipe allows for a great deal of flexibility, accommodating various dietary preferences and ingredients you have on hand. Whether you're hosting a large Thanksgiving gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner with close family, this casserole-style pie is designed to bring warmth and joy to your holiday table. Its layers of flavor and texture, combined with the rich history it symbolizes, make Pilgrim's Pie more than just a meal; it's a celebration of gratitude, family, and the rich history of traditions that Thanksgiving represents.

Ground Turkey: 1.5 lbs
Onion: 1 large, finely chopped (additional 1/2 cup for stuffing)
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced (additional 1 clove for stuffing)
Carrots: 2 medium, diced
Celery: 2 stalks, diced (additional 2 stalks for stuffing)
Frozen Peas: 1 cup
Chicken Broth: 1 cup (additional 2 cups for stuffing, more for gravy)
Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon
Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
Fresh Thyme: 1 teaspoon, chopped (additional 1 teaspoon for stuffing)
Fresh Rosemary: 1 teaspoon, chopped (additional 1 teaspoon for stuffing)
Salt and Pepper: to taste
Dried Bread Cubes: 4 cups (for stuffing)
Butter: 2 tablespoons (additional 4 tablespoons for mashed potatoes and stuffing, plus more for gravy)
Milk: 1 cup (for mashed potatoes)
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1/2 cup (optional, for mashed potatoes)
Buttered Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (for topping, optional)
Turkey Gravy (Optional for Serving): Prepared according to package instructions or homemade

Sauté 1/2 cup onion, 1 clove garlic, and 2 stalks celery in 2 tablespoons of butter. Add 1 teaspoon each of thyme and rosemary. Season.
Add 2 cups chicken broth, bring to a simmer.
Pour broth over 4 cups of dried bread cubes in a bowl, mix gently.
Preheat Oven, Prepare Baking Dish:

Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Grease a casserole dish.

Brown ground turkey. Add remaining onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until tender.
Add 1 cup chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, remaining thyme, and rosemary. Simmer, then add peas. Transfer to casserole dish.
Layer with Stuffing:

Spread prepared stuffing over the turkey mixture.

Combine mashed potatoes with 4 tablespoons butter, milk, and cheese. Spread over stuffing. Top with breadcrumbs if desired.

Bake for 30-40 minutes.

While casserole bakes, prepare turkey gravy. Use a package mix or make homemade with turkey drippings, butter, flour, and broth.

Let the casserole cool slightly. Serve with warm turkey gravy on top.
Pilgrim's Pie, is a delightful, all-in-one holiday dish that captures the essence of Thanksgiving flavors. Enjoy your festive meal!