Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe

I still remember the first time I tried turkey tetrazzini. It was love at first bite. This creamy, cheesy dish has become a staple in my home. I’m excited to share my favorite turkey tetrazzini recipe with you.

It has a recipe rating of 4.96 out of 5 based on 25 votes. You can trust that this is a tried-and-true best turkey tetrazzini recipe.

As I explored turkey tetrazzini, I found it’s more than a recipe. It’s a way to bring people together. Whether using leftover turkey or making it from scratch, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, let’s start this culinary journey and explore turkey tetrazzini together.

In this article, we’ll explore making the perfect turkey tetrazzini. We’ll cover essential ingredients and cooking techniques. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this dish will become a staple in your home. So, let’s dive in and discover the magic of turkey tetrazzini.

Key Takeaways

  • Recipe rating: 4.96 out of 5 based on 25 votes
  • Total cooking time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 8
  • Cooking temperature: Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Time to bake: 25-30 minutes
  • Nutrition information per serving: 298 kcal, 19g protein, 10g fat
  • Estimated shelf life in the fridge: up to 4 days

My Journey with Turkey Tetrazzini

I remember the first time I made a turkey tetrazzini recipe. It changed our family gatherings. We had leftover turkey from Thanksgiving and wanted something new. That’s when we found this amazing turkey tetrazzini casserole.

This recipe is delicious and easy to make. The shredded turkey makes it perfect for leftovers. The creamy sauce adds a rich flavor. We’ve tried many variations, but this one stays our favorite.

How I Discovered This Classic Dish

Our love for turkey tetrazzini started with a simple recipe. It used leftover turkey from Thanksgiving. We’ve made it our own by adding our favorite ingredients and spices. Now, it’s both comforting and elegant.

turkey tetrazzini recipe easy healthy

Why It Became My Go-To Recipe

This turkey tetrazzini recipe is versatile. I can use shredded turkey, chicken, or seafood. The creamy sauce is great for trying new flavors and ingredients.

What Makes This Version Special

This turkey tetrazzini casserole is special because of its flavors and textures. The shredded turkey adds depth, while the creamy sauce and cheese make it rich. It’s perfect for any occasion or a cozy meal.

The History Behind Turkey Tetrazzini

Turkey tetrazzini is a creamy pasta casserole from the United States. It has a long history, starting in the early 1900s. The first mention of it was in a 1908 Good Housekeeping magazine.

This classic recipe has changed over the years. Many different versions have been created.

The dish’s origins date back to March 6th, 1905. It was named after Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini. By the 1930s, it was a hit at places like New York’s Sardi’s. Today, it’s still loved, with many best chicken tetrazzini recipes available.

Some interesting facts about turkey tetrazzini are:

  • Common noodle options: spaghetti, angel hair pasta, linguine, and egg noodles
  • Variations: made with chicken, shrimp, or other proteins
  • Popularity: average yield of 6 or more servings, with approximately 538 calories per serving
turkey tetrazzini dish

Turkey tetrazzini is enjoyed by people of all ages. Its rich history and many variations make it a favorite. Whether you prefer a best chicken tetrazzini recipe or the traditional turkey version, it’s sure to please.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Turkey Tetrazzini

To make a delicious turkey tetrazzini casserole, you’ll need the right ingredients. A classic recipe for turkey tetrazzini starts with pasta, like linguine or fettuccine. You can also use leftover turkey to make a leftover turkey tetrazzini recipe, which is a great way to repurpose cooked turkey.

When it comes to casarole recipes, the key is to balance flavors and textures. For turkey tetrazzini, you’ll need a mix of sautéed vegetables, creamy sauce, and shredded cheese. Essential ingredients include button mushrooms, chopped onion, and grated Parmesan cheese.

The Pasta Base

Choose a pasta that holds onto the creamy sauce well, such as linguine or fettuccine. Cook the pasta al dente, then set it aside to prepare the sauce and other ingredients.

The Creamy Sauce Components

The sauce is a crucial part of a great turkey tetrazzini. You’ll need a mix of cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and shredded cheese. Adding diced ham or cooked turkey to the sauce can also enhance the flavor.

Turkey and Protein Options

Use cooked, shredded turkey as the main protein source. You can also add some diced ham or cooked chicken to the sauce for extra flavor.

Vegetables and Aromatics

Sautéed vegetables, such as button mushrooms and chopped onion, add flavor and texture to the dish. You can also add some diced bell peppers or chopped celery to the sauce for extra flavor.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To make a tasty turkey tetrazzini recipe easy healthy, you’ll need some key kitchen tools. A 9×13 baking dish is essential, as it’s the right size for cooking. You’ll also need a large skillet for sautéing veggies and a saucepan for the creamy sauce.

You’ll also need measuring cups and spoons, a can opener, and a wooden spoon for stirring. If you’re using recipes with shredded turkey, a meat shredder or two forks will come in handy.

Here’s a list of the equipment you’ll need:

  • 9×13 baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Saucepan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Can opener
  • Wooden spoon
  • Meat shredder or two forks (optional)
EquipmentDescription
9×13 baking dishFor cooking the turkey tetrazzini
Large skilletFor sautéing the vegetables
SaucepanFor making the creamy sauce

Preparing Your Turkey Tetrazzini Base

To make a tasty turkey tetrazzini casserole, start with a good base. This base includes cooked pasta, sautéed veggies, and a rich sauce. Follow these steps to make the best turkey tetrazzini recipe.

First, cook 12 oz of spaghetti until it’s al dente, about 8 minutes. While the pasta cooks, sauté 1 cup of chopped yellow onion and 8 oz of sliced mushrooms in 5 Tbsp of butter until they’re soft.

Cooking the Pasta

Cooking the pasta is key in making turkey tetrazzini. Make sure it’s al dente so it holds its shape. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti for a healthier choice.

Preparing the Vegetables

Preparing the veggies is important too. Sauté the onions and mushrooms in butter until they’re soft. Then, set them aside to add to the casserole later.

Making the Signature Sauce

The signature sauce is where the magic is. Mix 1/3 cup of dry sherry, 1/4 cup of flour, and 2 cups of chicken broth in a saucepan. Whisk constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer for about 1 minute, then add 3/4 cup of half-and-half and 10.5 oz of cream of celery soup. This sauce makes the turkey tetrazzini creamy and delicious.

By following these steps, you’ll have a solid base for your turkey tetrazzini casserole. Use high-quality ingredients and don’t overcook the pasta or veggies. With this base, you’ll make a delicious turkey tetrazzini dish that everyone will love.

IngredientQuantity
Spaghetti12 oz
Unsalted butter5 Tbsp
Yellow onion1 cup
Button mushrooms8 oz
Dry sherry1/3 cup
All-purpose flour1/4 cup
Chicken broth2 cups

Assembling Your Casserole Like a Pro

To make a tasty recipe for turkey tetrazzini, you need to put it together right. Start by mixing cooked pasta, turkey, and creamy sauce in a baking dish. This spreads the flavors well.

Think about using a leftover turkey tetrazzini recipe to cut down on waste. Adding steamed veggies like peas and carrots boosts the dish’s healthiness.

Here are some tips for assembling your casserole like a pro:

  • Choose a big baking dish to hold all the ingredients.
  • Layer the ingredients in the right order: pasta, then turkey, and lastly the creamy sauce.
  • Finish with grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs for a nice crunch.

By following these tips, you can make a delicious recipe for turkey tetrazzini for any event. Whether you’re using a leftover turkey tetrazzini recipe or starting fresh, the secret to a great casserole is in how you put it together.

IngredientQuantity
Cooked turkey1 lb (454g)
Pasta12 oz (340g)
Heavy cream1-1/4 cups (296 ml)
Parmesan cheese1/3 cup (79 ml)
Panko breadcrumbs1 cup (237 ml)

My Secret Tips for the Creamiest Turkey Tetrazzini

To make a memorable turkey tetrazzini, focus on the details. Adding sour cream to the sauce makes it rich and creamy. This is crucial when using shredded turkey, as it keeps the dish moist and flavorful.

Layering is key. Start with pasta, then turkey, and finish with creamy sauce. This ensures every bite is full of flavor and looks great.

Sauce Consistency Tricks

Getting the sauce just right is important. Mix cream of mushroom soup with sour cream for a smooth texture. If it’s too thick, add a bit of milk or cream.

Layering Techniques

When layering, cook pasta al dente. Then, layer shredded turkey and creamy sauce. Top it with melted cheese and breadcrumbs.

Topping Suggestions

Turkey tetrazzini is great because you can top it many ways. Try diced onions, fresh herbs, or Parmesan cheese. Diced bell peppers or mushrooms add extra flavor.

Follow these tips and use quality ingredients for a memorable turkey tetrazzini. Whether using shredded turkey or trying new layering, have fun and be creative.

IngredientQuantity
Pasta1 pound
Shredded Turkey2 cups
Cream of Mushroom Soup1 can
Sour Cream1 cup

Transforming Leftover Turkey into Tetrazzini Magic

Using leftover turkey, I always look for creative ways to reuse it. One of my top picks is a tasty leftover turkey tetrazzini recipe. It’s a fantastic way to give leftover turkey a new life, and it’s quite simple to prepare.

To begin, you’ll need 3 cups of cooked turkey, which can be shredded or cubed. You’ll also need 12 ounces of spaghetti or linguine, 1 cup of sliced mushrooms, and a creamy sauce. The sauce is made from 1/4 cup of unsalted butter and 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. It also uses 2 cups of chicken or turkey broth and 1 cup of heavy cream or a lighter version with milk.

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for the creamy sauce:

  • 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups of chicken or turkey broth
  • 1 cup of heavy cream or a lighter version with milk

Building the casserole is easy. Just mix the cooked pasta, turkey, and mushrooms. Then, top it with the creamy sauce and a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. This creates a delicious casarole recipe that’s great for leftover turkey. You can even refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

This leftover turkey tetrazzini recipe is a real winner with its rich, creamy sauce and tasty flavors. So, next time you’re stuck with leftover turkey, try this amazing casarole recipe.

Storing and Reheating Instructions

To keep your turkey tetrazzini casserole fresh, follow these storing and reheating tips. You can refrigerate it for 3-4 days or freeze it for 2-3 months. Always cool leftovers within 2 hours of cooking.

For reheating, use the oven or stovetop. Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes. On the stovetop, reheat over low heat, stirring every 2-3 minutes, until it reaches 165°F (74°C). You can also reheat in the microwave, starting with 1-2 minutes, then in 30-second intervals, until heated through.

When reheating, add a tablespoon of liquid like broth or milk to keep it moist. Cover the top with foil to prevent drying. Let the dish rest for 1 minute before serving. For a twist, try some of the best chicken tetrazzini recipes.

Here are some additional storage and reheating guidelines to keep in mind:

  • Refrigerate: 3-4 days
  • Freeze: 2-3 months
  • Reheating time in the oven: 20-25 minutes
  • Internal temperature for food safety: 165°F (74°C)

By following these storing and reheating instructions, you can enjoy your turkey tetrazzini casserole for a longer period. Whether reheating leftovers or trying a new recipe, these tips will help you get the best results.

Delicious Variations to Try

Exploring turkey tetrazzini can lead to many tasty twists. If you want something new, try chicken tetrazzini. It’s a favorite for those who like a different taste.

Want to mix things up? Use chicken tetrazzini or try seafood or vegetarian options. For seafood, use shrimp, scallops, or lobster. Vegetarian choices could be mushrooms, bell peppers, or eggplant. The key is to match the creamy sauce and pasta well.

Some popular turkey tetrazzini variations include:

  • Chicken Tetrazzini: a classic alternative to turkey
  • Seafood Tetrazzini: featuring shrimp, scallops, or lobster
  • Vegetarian Tetrazzini: with mushrooms, bell peppers, or eggplant

To make the best turkey tetrazzini recipe, use top-notch ingredients and a reliable cooking method. A bit of creativity can lead to a unique dish that’s yours alone.

Feeling classic or adventurous? There’s a turkey tetrazzini for you. So, why not try new ingredients and flavors? Your taste buds will love it!

VariationProtein SourcePrep TimeCook Time
Chicken TetrazziniChicken breast10 minutes30 minutes
Seafood TetrazziniShrimp, scallops, or lobster15 minutes25 minutes
Vegetarian TetrazziniMushrooms, bell peppers, or eggplant12 minutes20 minutes

Perfect Side Dishes to Serve

Choosing the right side dishes for turkey tetrazzini recipe easy healthy is key. Options like garlic bread, green salad, and roasted veggies are great. They not only taste good but also fit well with recipes with shredded turkey.

Here are some other side dish options you might consider:

  • Roasted carrots: a sweet and savory option that pairs well with turkey tetrazzini
  • Stuffed eggplants: a flavorful and healthy option that can be filled with quinoa, couscous, or minced meat
  • Meatballs: a classic option that can be served with spaghetti or as a standalone side dish

These side dishes add variety to your turkey tetrazzini recipe easy healthy meal. They bring different textures and tastes. By picking one or more, you’ll make a meal that’s both filling and enjoyable.

Side DishPrep TimeCook TimeTotal Time
Roasted Carrots10 minutes20 minutes30 minutes
Stuffed Eggplants15 minutes25 minutes40 minutes
Meatballs10 minutes15 minutes25 minutes

Conclusion: Making Turkey Tetrazzini Your Signature Dish

The turkey tetrazzini casserole is a true culinary gem. It can easily become your signature dish. With its rich, creamy sauce, tender turkey, and perfectly cooked pasta, this classic recipe is a surefire way to impress your family and friends. The best turkey tetrazzini recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to transform your leftover turkey into a mouthwatering casarole recipes.

By following the tips and techniques I’ve shared throughout this guide, you’ll be well on your way to crafting the perfect turkey tetrazzini casserole every time. Remember to experiment with different variations, explore creative side dish pairings, and most importantly, have fun in the kitchen. With a little practice, this dish will become a household staple that your family will eagerly anticipate.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s make turkey tetrazzini your new signature dish!

FAQ

What is Turkey Tetrazzini?

Turkey Tetrazzini is a creamy casserole made with leftover turkey, pasta, and a rich sauce. It’s great for using up holiday turkey. You can add your own twist to the recipe.

What makes this Turkey Tetrazzini recipe special?

This recipe stands out because it uses shredded turkey and a creamy sauce. The mix of tender turkey, velvety sauce, and pasta makes it comforting and satisfying.

What are the key ingredients in Turkey Tetrazzini?

The main ingredients are pasta, cream of celery soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, and turkey. You can also add veggies, herbs, and spices to make it your own.

How do I store and reheat leftover Turkey Tetrazzini?

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight if frozen. Then, bake at 350°F until hot and the top is golden.

Can I make substitutions or variations to the Turkey Tetrazzini recipe?

Yes! You can change it up by using chicken, seafood, or veggies for a veggie version. Try different pasta, cheese, and ingredients to make it your own.

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