Turkey Tetrazzini

Turkey Tetrazzini is a creamy, cheesy pasta bake that’s perfect for using up leftover turkey. With tender turkey, savory mushrooms, and a luscious sauce, it’s a comforting dish that’s always a hit at the dinner table. Let’s bring this hearty classic to life!

Ingredients

• Cooked Turkey (3 cups, shredded or diced)
  The star of the dish. Leftover roasted or smoked turkey works perfectly.
• Spaghetti or Linguine (12 oz)
  The pasta base. Cook until al dente to hold up in the sauce.
• Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced)
  Add an earthy depth to the casserole.
• Butter (4 tablespoons)
  For sautéing the mushrooms and creating the creamy roux.
• Flour (¼ cup)
  Helps thicken the sauce.
• Chicken or Turkey Broth (2 cups)
  The foundation of the sauce. Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup)
  Adds richness to the sauce. Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Dry White Wine (½ cup, optional)
  Enhances the sauce with a subtle tang.
• Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated)
  Provides a nutty, cheesy flavor throughout the dish.
• Cheddar or Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded)
  Melts beautifully for a gooey, cheesy topping.
• Onion (1 small, finely diced)
  Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
  Infuses the dish with savory aroma.
• Frozen Peas (1 cup)
  A pop of sweetness and color.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)
  Essential for balancing flavors.
• Parsley (for garnish, optional)
  Adds a fresh touch of color and flavor.

How to Make Turkey Tetrazzini

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti or linguine until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and white wine (if using), and bring to a simmer. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses and Vegetables
Stir in ½ cup of Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Add the peas, sautéed mushrooms, and shredded turkey. Stir to combine.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the sauce until evenly coated.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining Parmesan and shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the tetrazzini from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Skillet for sautéing mushrooms and making the sauce
• Whisk for blending the sauce
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl for combining pasta and sauce

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Shredded or diced cooked chicken works just as well in this dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the tetrazzini up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if chilled.

What other vegetables can I add?
Broccoli, spinach, or diced bell peppers are great additions to customize the dish.

Can I freeze Turkey Tetrazzini?
Yes, it freezes beautifully. Assemble the dish in a freezer-safe container, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What wine should I use?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best. If you prefer not to use wine, replace it with extra chicken broth.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.

What sides pair well with this dish?
A simple green salad or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments to balance the richness of the tetrazzini.

Conclusion

Turkey Tetrazzini is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and endlessly versatile. It’s a perfect way to transform leftovers into a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish. If you try this recipe, be sure to share it on Facebook or save it to Pinterest for your next cozy dinner. Enjoy!