Turkey a la King

Name: Turkey a la King
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 Puff Pastry Shells; 1 tbsp Avocado Oil or Olive Oil; 4 tbsp Butter (1/2 stick); 1/2 cup Onion, diced; 1 cup Carrots, diced; 1 cup Celery, diced (including leaves); 8 oz Mushrooms, sliced; 4 tbsp All-Purpose Flour; 2 cups Chicken Broth; 1 cup Heavy Cream; 1/2 tsp Poultry Seasoning; 1/4 tsp Celery Salt; 1/4 tsp Ground Thyme; 1/2 tsp Salt (or more, to taste); 1/4 tsp Pepper (or more, to taste); 3 cups Cooked Turkey; 1/2 cup Frozen Peas; Fresh Parsley for Garnish

By:

Sarah

Published:

October 30, 2025

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Turkey a la King is that comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. It’s perfect for chilly nights when you want something hearty and satisfying. The blend of tender turkey, seasonal veggies, and a creamy sauce all comes together beautifully. It creates an experience that feels a little special, whether you’re having a family dinner or just treating yourself after a long day. Plus, it’s an easy way to use up leftover turkey from the holidays or any roast. When you serve it over flaky puff pastry shells, the dish becomes a real showstopper. Let’s get to the good stuff: making this delectable Turkey a la King!

Why This Recipe Works

Turkey a la King is the perfect dish for a variety of occasions. It combines the richness of cream with tender turkey and vegetables, creating a satisfying meal. The puff pastry adds a delightful crunch, making every bite a symphony of textures and flavors. This recipe works smoothly because it uses straightforward techniques and ingredients that are often already in your pantry. You can prepare it in under an hour, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Turkey a la King

This dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s also about nostalgia. Many people have fond memories of savory Turkey a la King, often served during family gatherings or holiday feasts. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the seasonings or swap out ingredients based on your preferences, making it truly your own. Plus, it makes for great leftovers, ensuring you can enjoy those delicious flavors again the next day. What’s not to love?

Ingredients for Turkey a la King

To whip up this comforting meal, here’s what you’ll need:

6 Puff Pastry Shells
1 tbsp Avocado Oil or Olive Oil
4 tbsp Butter (1/2 stick)
1/2 cup Onion, diced
1 cup Carrots, diced
1 cup Celery, diced (including leaves)
8 oz Mushrooms, sliced
4 tbsp All-Purpose Flour
2 cups Chicken Broth
1 cup Heavy Cream
1/2 tsp Poultry Seasoning
1/4 tsp Celery Salt
1/4 tsp Ground Thyme
1/2 tsp Salt (or more, to taste)
1/4 tsp Pepper (or more, to taste)
3 cups Cooked Turkey
1/2 cup Frozen Peas
Fresh Parsley for Garnish

Preparing the Puff Pastry Shells

Bake the Puff Pastry Shells

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Now, you’ll bake those puff pastry shells according to the package directions. This process creates a crispy and flaky base, ensuring your Turkey a la King has a fantastic crunch.

Sauté the Vegetables

Cook the Vegetables

While the pastry bakes, it’s time to get your veggies ready. Grab a large skillet and set it over medium heat. Add in your avocado oil (or olive oil) along with the butter. Once it’s melted, toss in the diced onion, diced celery, carrots, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté these for about 12-15 minutes, or until everything becomes tender and fragrant. This step truly brings out the flavors and lays the foundation for the rest of your dish.

Making the Sauce

Create a Thickened Sauce

Next, stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about a minute. This helps create a smooth sauce and gets rid of any raw flour taste. Then, increase the heat to medium-high and gradually whisk in the chicken broth. Stir constantly until the sauce begins to boil and thicken. This part is crucial, so give it a little extra attention, as a well-thickened sauce helps the dish come together perfectly.

Adding Cream and Seasoning

Enhance the Flavor

Now that your sauce is thickened, reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream, celery salt, poultry seasoning, ground thyme, salt, pepper, and your cooked turkey. Don’t forget to add the frozen peas! They add a pop of color and flavor. Keep this warm on the stovetop, but be careful not to let it boil; you want to keep everything creamy and delicious.

Serving Turkey a la King

Serve with Puff Pastry Shells

Once your filling is ready, it’s time to serve. Carefully remove the center of each baked puff pastry shell. This creates a lovely nest for your filling. Ladle the turkey mixture over the top, allowing it to spill over the sides. You can use the pastry center as a cute little top for the gravy mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley, if you like, to add a touch of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider pairing Turkey a la King with a light side salad or some fluffy mashed potatoes. These sides complement the rich flavors of the dish beautifully. They also add a nice variety of textures to your dinner table.

Tips for Success

Make sure your vegetables are finely diced. This ensures they cook evenly and blend well into the sauce.
Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate to experiment with adding more herbs or spices if you’re feeling adventurous.

Variations

This recipe is flexible! If you’re looking for alternatives, try substituting turkey for chicken or even mix in a variety of veggies for a vegetarian option. You could add bell peppers or green beans for a unique take. The combination possibilities are endless!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (and we hope you do!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. If you find the sauce thickened a bit too much, add a splash of broth while reheating to bring back that creamy consistency.

Pairing Ideas

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this dish with a crisp white wine or serve it alongside some crusty bread. A light vegetable side dish can also balance the richness of Turkey a la King for a delightful weeknight dinner.

FAQs

What can I use instead of puff pastry shells?
You can serve Turkey a la King over rice, noodles, or even biscuits.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that still offers delicious flavor.

How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free to accommodate dietary needs.

Can I freeze Turkey a la King?
Yes, the filling can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving; add fresh pastry upon serving.

What other herbs work well in this recipe?
Thyme and rosemary are excellent choices, but feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs!

Turkey a la King is a wonderful recipe that combines the comforting flavors of a classic dish with the convenience of using leftover turkey. With its creamy texture and delightful mix of vegetables, this recipe not only satisfies hunger but also brings warmth to your dining table. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night in or impressing guests at a festive gathering, Turkey a la King is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Try it out and savor the delicious blend of flavors and textures in every bite!

Turkey a la King

Why This Recipe Works