A Creamy and Flavorful Delight: Turkey Tetrazzini
Are you looking for a comforting dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and family-friendly? Look no further than Turkey Tetrazzini! This delicious noodle casserole is packed with tender turkey, savory mushrooms, and a rich creamy sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Fun fact: Turkey Tetrazzini is named after the famous opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini, who was known for her love of cooking! This dish is a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey and is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Plus, it’s quick to make, taking only about 30 minutes of prep and bake time, making it a go-to meal for families. It’s as homey as the classic mac and cheese that many of us adore! So roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds!
What is Turkey Tetrazzini?
So, what exactly is this delightful dish called Turkey Tetrazzini? Sounds fancy, doesn’t it? You might be picturing a luxurious opera gala, but it’s actually a delightful Italian-American casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. Imagine cozying up on a chilly evening with a warm bowl of creamy pasta, topped with golden cheese. Who wouldn’t want that? They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this dish certainly proves that! It’s a crowd-pleaser that transforms leftover turkey into a culinary masterpiece. Don’t be shy; bring this comforting recipe into your home kitchen, and taste why it’s a beloved classic!
Why You’ll Love This Turkey Tetrazzini
Turkey Tetrazzini is a dish that will steal your heart for several reasons! First and foremost, it’s incredibly creamy and flavorful—an absolute highlight of the meal. The combination of mushrooms, peas, and cheddar makes every bite irresistible. Secondly, making this dish at home saves you money compared to dining out, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet experience for a fraction of the cost! And lastly, the variety of toppings, like breadcrumbs and cheese, elevates your meal to a new standard. If you enjoy creamy pasta dishes, you’ll also love our Chicken Alfredo recipe on the blog. It’s a delicious companion to this Turkey Tetrazzini, showcasing our culinary variety! So why not gather your ingredients and try your hand at making this satisfying dish today?
How to Make Turkey Tetrazzini:
Quick Overview
Turkey Tetrazzini is easy to prepare, delicious, and profoundly satisfying. With a rich and creamy sauce enveloping tender turkey and pasta, it’s a dish that brings comfort in every bite. This hearty casserole comes together in just about an hour, starting from prep to bake time.
Key Ingredients for Turkey Tetrazzini:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 8 ounces pasta (e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup peas
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs for topping (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta in a large pot according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Mushrooms: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they become soft and golden.
- Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir well, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk until the mixture is smooth and thickens.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey, drained pasta, peas, and the creamy sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is coated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs for added crunch.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving, then dig in!
What to Serve Turkey Tetrazzini With
To elevate your meal experience, consider serving Turkey Tetrazzini with a fresh garden salad featuring a zesty vinaigrette. Garlic bread is another fantastic side that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. For drinks, a refreshing lemonade or a light white wine can enhance the overall flavor profile of your meal.
Top Tips for Perfecting Turkey Tetrazzini
- Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to swap out turkey for chicken or even a vegetarian protein if you prefer. The creamy sauce pairs well with a variety of flavors!
- Texture Tips: For an extra crunch, add more breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers on top before baking.
- Avoid Common Mistakes: Ensure not to overcook the pasta! It should be slightly undercooked since it will continue to cook while baking.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely since it’s so delicious), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat, place the Tetrazzini in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Alternatively, use the microwave for a quick option, but it’s best to cover it to keep the moisture in. You can also freeze portions for later, and they can last for about 2-3 months. Just make sure to label your container!
Now that you’re equipped with this delightful Turkey Tetrazzini recipe, get cooking and treat yourself and your loved ones to a warm, comforting meal that they will remember! Enjoy!

A Creamy and Flavorful Delight: Turkey Tetrazzini
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked turkey shredded
- 8 ounces pasta e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 cup mushrooms sliced
- 1 cup peas
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs for topping optional
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta in a large pot according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Mushrooms: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they become soft and golden.
- Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir well, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk until the mixture is smooth and thickens.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey, drained pasta, peas, and the creamy sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is coated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs for added crunch.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving, then dig in!
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