Delicious Pot Pie Possibilities

There is nothing quite as comforting, soothing, and delicious as a hot pot pie, whether you enjoy it on a crisp sunny autumn day or in the depths of a cold, wet winter. There is no delight quite equal to breaking through the crisp crust and inhaling the savory steam as you take your first warm and cozy bite. While chicken and turkey pot pies are the most popular, there are dozens of ways to prepare this perennial favorite. Here are a few alternative and lightened up versions of pot pies.

Consider the crust. The most popular pot pie crust is a traditional pie crust made from shortening or butter, flour, salt and ice water. You can also spice it up by mixing in dried herbs, garlic powder, sea salt and pepper. Why not try easy to prepare crusts such as store bought puff pastry, phyllo dough, or even frozen bread or pizza dough? In order to save calories place the crust only over the top of the filling, either whole or in strips. Brush the crust with olive oil or light butter and dust with more herbs and spices, or a light sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor and color. You can bake your pot pies in a pie dish, in mini muffin tins, as individual pot pie pastries, in a square baking dish, or in an extra large casserole.

Variations on the filling. Chicken or turkey, veggies and a creamy sauce are the typical filling for pot pies. It's easy to lighten it up by making your own light cream sauce. However you can also combine a reduced sodium and low fat canned cream of chicken, mushroom, or other creamy soup with some low sodium chicken or vegetable broth. Make a seafood pot pie with a mixture of your favorite fish filets cut into cubes, shrimp, scallops, crab, or any other seafood you enjoy. How about a beef stew pot pie, or a chili con carne pot pie? You can make a purely vegetarian pot pie as a delicious main dish for those who don't eat meat. Make an Italian pot pie with lean sausage, peppers, onions, garlic, marinara or pest, and ricotta cheese. Top it with thinly stretched pizza dough brushed with olive oil and dusted with Parmigiano.

Pot pies are a great way to use leftovers and pantry staples to create a delicious, hearty and healthy meal in one dish. They're perfect for family dinners, to feed a few friends, or bake up two at once and deliver one to a busy friend in need. They make beautiful homemade gifts, not just for others but for you and your family as well.