Introduction

Turkey Tetrazzini is a classic comfort food that brings together tender turkey, spaghetti, and a creamy, flavorful sauce, all topped with a golden layer of cheese. This dish is not only a fantastic way to use leftover turkey, making it perfect for the days following a big holiday meal, but it also serves as a hearty family dinner that is easy to prepare. Whether you have a rotisserie chicken or turkey on hand, this recipe will satisfy your craving for a warm and savory dish.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Turkey: 3 cups cooked turkey, chopped
Spaghetti: 8 ounces spaghetti, uncooked
Mushrooms: 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
Butter: 4 tablespoons
All-purpose flour: 1/3 cup
Chicken broth: 2 cups
Milk: 1 cup
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon
Parmesan cheese: 1 cup grated
Cheddar cheese: 1 cup shredded
Parsley: 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Bread crumbs: 1/2 cup (optional, for topping)

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent. Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook until tender.

Prepare the Sauce

Sprinkle flour over the vegetables in the skillet, stirring to combine. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and half-and-half, cooking until the mixture thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the sautéed vegetables and sauce. Add the cooked turkey and stir until everything is well combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Add Toppings

Sprinkle the top with shredded cheese and breadcrumbs.

Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.

Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

Storage

Leftover turkey tetrazzini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Option

To freeze, assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Pasta Alternatives

Feel free to substitute the pasta with any pasta shape of your choice such as penne or fusilli.

Vegetable Variations

You can add additional vegetables like peas or bell peppers to enhance the dish.

Turkey Substitution

If you don’t have turkey, cooked chicken is a perfect alternative for this recipe.

Cook techniques

Cooking the Pasta

Cooking the pasta to al dente ensures that it maintains a good texture when baked. Be sure to salt the water well to enhance the flavor of the pasta.

Sautéing the Vegetables

Sautéing the mushrooms and onions in butter allows them to soften and develop a rich flavor which enhances the overall dish.

Preparing the Sauce

Creating a creamy sauce by combining butter, flour, and broth is essential for the base of the tetrazzini. Cooking the roux properly is vital for the sauce to thicken correctly.

Adding Protein

Incorporating cooked turkey or chicken adds a hearty element to the dish and is a great way to use leftovers.

Baking the Dish

Baking at the right temperature is crucial to ensure that the tetrazzini is heated through and the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Using a Topping

Topping with breadcrumbs and cheese before baking provides a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta underneath.

FAQ

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with various pasta shapes, but consider that cooking time may vary.

Is it necessary to use cooked turkey?

While cooked turkey is traditional, you can also use shredded rotisserie chicken or even cooked ham if desired.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the tetrazzini ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can omit the turkey and increase the amount of vegetables used, or add plant-based protein options.

What should I serve with Turkey Tetrazzini?

This dish pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the tetrazzini.

Conclusion

Turkey Tetrazzini is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together tender turkey, creamy sauce, and comforting pasta in a harmonious way. This versatile meal not only satisfies the taste buds but also makes excellent use of leftover turkey, making it a fantastic choice for post-holiday meals or any time you have extra turkey on hand.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Chicken Tetrazzini

Swap out the turkey for cooked chicken for a classic chicken tetrazzini that is just as comforting and delicious.

Vegetable Tetrazzini

For a vegetarian twist, incorporate a variety of your favorite vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers.

Seafood Tetrazzini

Try using shrimp or crab instead of turkey for a seafood take on this classic dish.

Cheesy Broccoli Tetrazzini

Add steamed broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor, along with an extra layer of cheese on top for a gooey finish.

Pesto Turkey Tetrazzini

Mix in some pesto sauce for an herby burst of flavor, taking your traditional tetrazzini to the next level.

Spicy Tetrazzini

Incorporate jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to add some heat to the dish while still keeping it creamy.

Lemon Garlic Tetrazzini

Infuse lemon juice and garlic to create a fresh and zesty version that brightens up the rich flavors.

Leftover Thanksgiving Tetrazzini

Utilize all those Thanksgiving leftovers by incorporating stuffing or mashed potatoes into your casserole for a unique spin.