This Easy Turkey Tetrazzini is a creamy and comforting pasta dish with tender turkey, mushrooms, and a rich sauce. It’s a great way to use leftover turkey!
I love how simple it is to whip up this tasty meal—just mix, bake, and enjoy! It’s like a warm hug in a dish, perfect for any day. Who doesn’t love leftovers made special? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti or fettuccine works well in this dish. If you’re looking for alternatives, try penne or rotini for something a little different. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are great options too!
Turkey: Leftover cooked turkey is perfect for this dish. You can also use chicken if that’s what you have on hand. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient substitute and lends great flavor!
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add a earthy taste. If you’re not a fan, try using canned mushrooms or even some diced bell peppers for a different twist. Just make sure to sauté them well!
Cream: Heavy cream makes the dish rich, but you can swap it for half-and-half or even a lower-fat milk if you’d like. For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk, though it will impart a different flavor.
Cheese: Parmesan gives a nice salty kick. In a pinch, you can use Pecorino Romano or even mozzarella for a melty texture. I wouldn’t skip the cheese; it adds to the dish’s creaminess!
How Do You Get the Sauce Just Right?
Making a creamy sauce can be tricky but manageable! Start by making a roux with butter and flour to thicken your sauce. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, add onions and sauté until they soften.
- Add mushrooms and garlic, cooking until the mushrooms release water and darken.
- Sprinkle flour, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to eliminate raw flavor.
- Slowly whisk in broth followed by cream; keep stirring as it thickens for about 3-5 minutes.
- If using, mix in sour cream or cream cheese for added creaminess.
Remember, patience is key! Stirring consistently ensures a smooth sauce without lumps. Taste as you go to adjust seasoning!
Easy Turkey Tetrazzini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups cooked turkey, diced or shredded
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Toppings:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 cup French fried onions or breadcrumbs (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to bake, giving you a total of about 45 minutes to a delicious meal! Just the right amount of time for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Go ahead and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to get it ready for your casserole.
2. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for now.
3. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Next, add in the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook them until they brown and release their moisture, around 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Make the Sauce:
Sprinkle the flour over your sautéed veggies and stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken or turkey broth, and then stir in the heavy cream. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
5. Combine Everything:
Stir in 3/4 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce, and season it with salt and pepper to your liking. If you’re using sour cream or cream cheese, mix it in now for that extra creaminess. Remove the skillet from the heat and fold in the cooked turkey and peas (if you’re using them).
6. Mix in the Pasta:
Toss the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce mixture until everything is well coated and combined.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the top, and then cover it with French fried onions or breadcrumbs to add a delicious crunch.
8. Bake and Serve:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Once it’s done, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your creamy, comforting dish!
This comforting Easy Turkey Tetrazzini is a delightful way to enjoy leftover turkey, combining tender pasta, a rich sauce, and crunchy toppings. Perfect for family dinners or just a cozy night in!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti or fettuccine are great choices, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta. Just ensure to cook it al dente before mixing it into the sauce!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the turkey with diced vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, and opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken or turkey broth. You can add more mushrooms for a hearty texture!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Turkey Tetrazzini! Store it in an airtight container and enjoy it within 2-3 months. Reheat it slowly in the oven to retain its creamy texture, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you need a lighter option, half-and-half works great. You can also use milk mixed with a little melted butter for a similar richness or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative, though it will change the flavor slightly.