There’s nothing quite like the cozy aroma of a bubbling casserole wafting through the kitchen on a chilly evening. The moment I pulled my Turkey Tetrazzini from the oven, the melted cheese and golden crumbs sparkled enticingly, drawing everyone in for a taste. This dish has become my go-to solution for those busy weeknights when I crave something comforting yet impressive, and it effortlessly transforms leftover turkey into a rich, creamy delight.
With just a handful of simple ingredients, including tender pasta, savory mushrooms, and that decadent cream cheese sauce, this Turkey Tetrazzini brings unparalleled warmth and flavor to the table. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, making it easy to swap in your favorite veggies or whatever leftovers you have on hand. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply feeding your family, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that turns boring meals into cherished moments. So, let’s dive into the recipe and create something truly special!
Why You'll Love This Turkey Tetrazzini
- This Turkey Tetrazzini is a breeze to make, coming together in just under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- With its creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty flavor, it will have your taste buds singing with joy.
- The versatility of this recipe allows you to incorporate any leftover vegetables or meats you have on hand, making it family-friendly and customizable.
- Plus, it’s visually stunning with golden cheese and a crispy topping, making it a showstopper for any gathering.
- This dish truly embodies the comfort of home-cooked meals while being a guaranteed hit with both family and friends.
Turkey Tetrazzini Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Dried spaghetti pasta – 16 ounces, the perfect base that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
For the Sauce
• Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons, adds rich flavor to the sautéed veggies.
• Small-diced onion – 1 cup, provides an aromatic base with a sweet depth.
• Baby bella mushrooms – 8 ounces, adds earthy richness; feel free to swap with your favorite mushrooms.
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced for a flavor boost that brightens the dish.
• Dried Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon, enhances the overall flavor profile reminiscent of Italy.
• Cream cheese – 8 ounces, brings creaminess and indulgence to the sauce.
• Condensed cream of mushroom soup – 2 (10.5-ounce) cans, offers a quick and creamy consistency.
• Sour cream – 1 cup, adds tanginess and depth to the overall flavor.
• Whole milk – 1/2 cup, to achieve a luscious and smooth sauce.
For the Filling
• Diced cooked turkey – 2 cups, a delicious way to utilize leftovers and make this Turkey Tetrazzini shine.
• Frozen peas – 1 cup, providing a pop of color and a touch of sweetness.
For the Topping
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – 2 cups, for that gooey cheesy layer that everyone loves.
• Crushed butter crackers – 1/2 cup, adds a delightful crunch and contrast to the creamy filling.
• Fresh chopped parsley (optional) – for a burst of color and freshness before serving.
With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, your Turkey Tetrazzini will be a dish to remember!
How to Make Turkey Tetrazzini
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup later.
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Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, allowing it the right texture to absorb the creamy sauce.
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Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add diced onion, mushrooms, and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and mushrooms are tender, roughly 5-7 minutes.
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Stir in Italian seasoning, cream cheese, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Cook until everything is combined, creating a smooth and creamy sauce, about 3-5 minutes.
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Incorporate diced turkey and frozen peas into the sauce, stirring gently to combine. The turkey should be well mixed in for an even distribution of flavor.
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Mix in the cooked spaghetti, ensuring every strand is evenly coated with the luscious sauce. This will create that heavenly blend of flavors in each bite.
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Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and crushed butter crackers for that perfect contrast of gooey and crunchy textures.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crackers are lightly golden. Enjoy the mouthwatering aroma wafting through your kitchen!
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired, for a touch of color and an extra hint of freshness.
Optional: Serve with a side salad for a refreshing balance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Turkey Tetrazzini are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance, layering all the ingredients in the baking dish and covering it tightly with plastic wrap. To maintain quality, refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. On the day you plan to serve, simply remove the plastic and bake it straight from the fridge for about 30-35 minutes, adding a few minutes if you’re cooking from chilled. This way, you’ll enjoy piping hot, creamy Tetrazzini that’s just as comforting and delicious as if you made it fresh that day!
Turkey Tetrazzini Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Turkey Tetrazzini by exploring these tantalizing variations that awaken your taste buds!
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Vegetarian: Substitute turkey with cooked lentils or a mix of your favorite veggies for a satisfying plant-based dish.
Imagine the earthy flavors of lentils enriching your meal while still giving that comforting creaminess. -
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and swap condensed soup with a homemade or store-bought gluten-free version.
You won’t miss out on any flavors while enjoying a comforting casserole that’s kind to your gut! -
Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a zing of heat that’ll wake up your palate.
This twist can transform your dish from cozy to fiery, igniting flavors in every single bite! -
Cheesy Goodness: Mix in a variety of cheeses, like cheddar or provolone, along with mozzarella for a richer taste.
The melding of flavors will create a cheesy experience that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds! -
Seafood: Replace turkey with shrimp or crab meat for a luxurious seafood version that’s perfect for special occasions.
Picture a delightful combination of seafood and creamy sauce, elevating your casserole to a sophisticated level. -
Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or rosemary can be added to the sauce for an aromatic flavor lift.
Just a pinch of fresh herbs makes all the difference, transforming your dish into a fragrant masterpiece! -
Smoky Flair: Incorporate smoked paprika or diced smoked turkey for an intriguing smoky depth in your Tetrazzini.
This subtle twist gives your dish a unique dimension that surprises and delights at the dinner table. -
Nutty Crunch: Toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds on top can provide an unexpected yet delicious crunch.
The contrast of textures adds a delightful surprise, making every mouthful a sensational experience!
What to Serve with Turkey Tetrazzini?
There’s something undeniably comforting about creating a full meal that harmonizes perfectly with your main dish, tantalizing both the taste buds and heart.
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Garlicky Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks topped with garlic powder create a delightful crunch that complements the creamy texture.
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Crisp Caesar Salad: A refreshing salad with romaine, Parmesan, and tangy dressing provides a vibrant contrast to the richness of the casserole.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender, caramelized asparagus tossed with lemon juice adds a burst of freshness and color, making it an elegant side.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw enhances the comfort food experience by introducing a crunchy and refreshing element to the table.
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Savory Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds provide a delightful nutty contrast, adding texture and flavor variation to the meal.
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Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy, cheesy goodness of garlic mashed potatoes not only satisfies but brings an extra indulgent element to the plate.
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Sangria: A refreshing pitcher of sangria filled with fruity splashes can elevate your meal, lending sweetness and zest to every sip.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For the ultimate finish, warm and gooey chocolate chip cookies promise a sweet ending that leaves everyone smiling.
How to Store and Freeze Turkey Tetrazzini
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezer: For optimal freshness, freeze Turkey Tetrazzini in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture, then uncover for the last 10 minutes.
Serving Suggestions: When serving, feel free to add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for color and freshness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your spaghetti is perfectly al dente, cook it just until it is tender but still firm to the bite, usually 8-10 minutes.
- Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will continue to soften when baked in the Turkey Tetrazzini.
- For an extra depth of flavor, consider sautéing the onions and mushrooms until they are caramelized, which brings out their natural sweetness.
- When baking, keep an eye on the casserole in the last few minutes for optimal browning of the cheese and crackers without burning them.
Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe FAQs
What type of spaghetti should I use for Turkey Tetrazzini?
I recommend using dried spaghetti pasta for this Turkey Tetrazzini, as it holds up well to the creamy sauce and maintains the perfect texture. However, you can easily swap it out for other pasta types such as fettuccine or penne if you prefer a different shape.
How should I store leftover Turkey Tetrazzini?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For the best results, cover it with foil during reheating to maintain moisture.
Can I freeze Turkey Tetrazzini?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the Turkey Tetrazzini in a freezer-safe container and ensure it’s sealed tightly. It can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, covered with foil to lock in moisture.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce too thick, add a splash more of whole milk or a little broth to loosen it up. Stir well while heating it back up on the stove, and it should reach that desired creamy consistency. Just be careful not to make it too watery!
My Turkey Tetrazzini is too dry after baking. What can I do?
If your Turkey Tetrazzini turns out dry, it’s often due to overbaking. I recommend checking it a few minutes before the expected baking time. If you want to salvage it after baking, try drizzling a little extra chicken broth or cream over the top before serving to add moisture back in!
Is Turkey Tetrazzini suitable for kids?
Definitely! Turkey Tetrazzini is kid-friendly and can be easily customized. You can add their favorite veggies or even swap out turkey for chicken. The creamy sauce and cheesy topping are sure to win over even the pickiest eaters!
Turkey Tetrazzini
Ingredients
- 16 ounces Dried spaghetti pasta the perfect base that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter adds rich flavor to the sautéed veggies.
- 1 cup Small-diced onion provides an aromatic base with a sweet depth.
- 8 ounces Baby bella mushrooms adds earthy richness; feel free to swap with your favorite mushrooms.
- 2 cloves Garlic minced for a flavor boost that brightens the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Dried Italian seasoning enhances the overall flavor profile reminiscent of Italy.
- 8 ounces Cream cheese brings creaminess and indulgence to the sauce.
- 2 cans Condensed cream of mushroom soup offers a quick and creamy consistency.
- 1 cup Sour cream adds tanginess and depth to the overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup Whole milk to achieve a luscious and smooth sauce.
- 2 cups Diced cooked turkey a delicious way to utilize leftovers and make this Turkey Tetrazzini shine.
- 1 cup Frozen peas providing a pop of color and a touch of sweetness.
- 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese for that gooey cheesy layer that everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup Crushed butter crackers adds a delightful crunch and contrast to the creamy filling.
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional) for a burst of color and freshness before serving.
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup later.
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add diced onion, mushrooms, and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and mushrooms are tender, roughly 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, cream cheese, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Cook until everything is combined, creating a smooth and creamy sauce, about 3-5 minutes.
- Incorporate diced turkey and frozen peas into the sauce, stirring gently to combine.
- Mix in the cooked spaghetti, ensuring every strand is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and crushed butter crackers.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crackers are lightly golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
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