Turkey Tetrazzini is a comforting and creamy dish that’s perfect for using up leftover turkey. It combines spaghetti with a delicious sauce, mushrooms, and cheese. This meal is not only easy to make but also has a rich flavor that your entire family will enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is a great choice.
Why Make This Recipe
This Turkey Tetrazzini recipe is a fantastic way to turn ordinary ingredients into something special. It’s a one-dish meal that’s full of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s a great way to prevent food waste by using leftover turkey. Your family will love this tasty dish, and you’ll appreciate how quickly it comes together thanks to simple steps!
How to Make Turkey Tetrazzini
Making Turkey Tetrazzini is simple and fun! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 12 ounces mushrooms (sliced)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ cups reduced sodium chicken broth
- 8 ounces spreadable cream cheese (garlic flavor)
- 1 ⅓ cups half and half (or light cream)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups cooked chopped turkey
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until it is al dente.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until they soften. Then add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to slightly toast it.
- Pour in the chicken broth and half-and-half all at once. Cook until thick and bubbly, allowing it to boil for 1 minute. Stir in the cream cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Then add the parsley and season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a big bowl, mix the cooked spaghetti, chopped turkey, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese with the creamy sauce.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese, cover with foil, and bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and bake for another 10-15 minutes until it’s hot and bubbly.
How to Serve Turkey Tetrazzini
Serve Turkey Tetrazzini hot from the oven. You can garnish it with a bit more fresh parsley for a lovely color. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks!
How to Store Turkey Tetrazzini
If you have leftovers, let the Turkey Tetrazzini cool down and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving again.
Tips to Make Turkey Tetrazzini
- Make sure not to overcook the spaghetti; it should be al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven.
- You can mix in some veggies like spinach or peas for extra nutrition.
- If you want a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to your sauce.
Variation
You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and flour. You can also switch out turkey for shredded chicken or even cooked ham for a different twist!
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh turkey for this recipe? Yes! You can use freshly cooked turkey instead of leftovers if you prefer.
2. Can Turkey Tetrazzini be made ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.
3. What can I serve with Turkey Tetrazzini? It pairs well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Enjoy making this easy and delightful Turkey Tetrazzini! Your family will thank you for it!