Turkey tetrazzini is a delightful fusion of creamy, cheesy goodness, and tender turkey pieces that will have your taste buds dancing. Imagine a comforting casserole bubbling away in the oven, filling your home with savory aromas that promise warmth and satisfaction. This dish brings together the rich flavors of roasted turkey, mushrooms, and a decadent sauce, all topped with golden brown cheese. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Let me take you back to the first time I made turkey tetrazzini. I was trying to impress my family after Thanksgiving by using up leftover turkey. The moment it came out of the oven, my brother exclaimed it smelled like heaven! As we dug in, laughter filled the room over our shared love for this delicious dish. Little did I know then that this casserole would become a cherished staple for many occasions.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This turkey tetrazzini recipe combines ease of preparation with an irresistible flavor profile that everyone will adore
- Its creamy texture and rich taste make it visually appealing as well
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to use whatever leftover proteins or veggies you have on hand for a quick meal!
I remember the delight on my family’s faces when I served them this cheesy masterpiece; they practically inhaled it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Cooked Turkey: Shredded or diced turkey works best; feel free to use leftovers from your holiday feast.
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Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add an earthy flavor; try cremini or button mushrooms for variety.
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Egg Noodles: These are the backbone of the dish; choose wide noodles for better texture and sauce adherence.
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness; it’s crucial for building flavor in the sauce.
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Heavy Cream: For that rich, luscious sauce; if you’re feeling adventurous, substitute half-and-half.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is ideal; it adds depth and enhances that golden crust on top.
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Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These seasonings elevate the flavors without overwhelming the dish.
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Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste; don’t be shy!
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Panko Bread Crumbs: For that crispy topping that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy base.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures everything bakes evenly and gets perfectly bubbly.
Cook the Noodles: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook egg noodles until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Sauté Mushrooms and Seasonings: In a large skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil. Sauté sliced mushrooms until they turn golden brown and release their moisture. Add garlic powder and onion powder at this point.
Create Your Sauce Base: Pour chicken broth into the skillet with sautéed mushrooms. Bring it to a simmer before adding heavy cream gradually while stirring continuously until smooth.
Add Turkey and Noodles: Stir in shredded turkey and cooked noodles into your creamy mixture. Combine thoroughly until every noodle is coated in luscious sauce.
Topping Time!: Transfer your mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese followed by panko bread crumbs for that coveted crunch factor.
Pop this beauty into your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden on top. Enjoy every delicious bite of your homemade turkey tetrazzini!
This recipe not only fills bellies but also creates lasting memories around the dinner table—who doesn’t want that?
You Must Know
- Turkey tetrazzini is a delicious way to use up leftover turkey
- The combination of pasta, creamy sauce, and cheese creates a cozy comfort food experience that everyone will love
- Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or seasonings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta until al dente while preparing the sauce separately. Sauté onions and mushrooms in butter, then stir in flour for a roux. Gradually add broth and cream for a rich sauce before mixing in the cooked turkey and pasta.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap turkey for chicken or even shrimp if you’re feeling adventurous. Add frozen peas for color or sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley for an aromatic finish. You can also try different cheeses for unique flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess before microwaving or baking until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To get the perfect texture, avoid overcooking the pasta; it will continue cooking in the oven
- Don’t skimp on seasoning; a pinch of nutmeg adds warmth to the dish
- Lastly, let it cool slightly before serving so the sauce thickens beautifully
Sometimes I whip up turkey tetrazzini when friends drop by unexpectedly; it never fails to impress! They always ask for seconds and rave about its comforting flavors, which warms my heart.
FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, chicken works wonderfully and tastes just as delicious in this recipe.
How can I make turkey tetrazzini healthier?
Consider using whole grain pasta and adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
What type of cheese should I use?
A mix of mozzarella and Parmesan gives a great flavor combination and creamy texture.
Turkey Tetrazzini
Turkey tetrazzini is a creamy, cheesy casserole that transforms your leftover turkey into a comforting dish your family will love. With tender turkey pieces, earthy mushrooms, and rich sauce topped with crispy panko and melted cheese, this recipe captures the essence of cozy home cooking. Perfect for family dinners or unexpected gatherings, turkey tetrazzini offers both warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) egg noodles
- 1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced (e.g., cremini or button)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook egg noodles in salted boiling water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté mushrooms in olive oil until golden brown. Add garlic powder and onion powder.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Gradually stir in heavy cream until smooth.
- Mix in shredded turkey and cooked noodles until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, topping it with Parmesan cheese and panko bread crumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
