Turkey Tetrazzini

Turkey Tetrazzini is a classic American casserole, celebrated for its creamy texture and hearty ingredients. Named after the Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini, this dish is a beautiful blend of tender turkey meat, al dente pasta, and a savory cream sauce, embellished with mushrooms and peas. It’s a fantastic way to utilize leftover turkey, making it a beloved choice for post-holiday meals. This comforting dish not only fills your belly but also warms your heart, transporting you to cozy family gatherings with every bite. The combination of flavors and textures makes it versatile; you can serve it at an intimate dinner party or as a casual weeknight meal. Whether you prepare it from scratch or with leftovers, Turkey Tetrazzini is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until browned and any moisture has evaporated, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while continuously stirring, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Once simmering, reduce the heat and add the heavy cream, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
8. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, turkey, and peas. Pour the mushroom cream sauce over the mixture and stir until evenly coated.
9. Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the remaining 1/4 cup of melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
10. Finally, top with grated Parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
11. Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Servings

This Turkey Tetrazzini recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it ideal for family meals or gatherings. Enjoy left-overs the next day, as the flavors are sure to intensify!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Tools Needed

• Large pot
• Saucepan
• Baking dish (9×13 inches)
• Mixing spoon
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Colander
• Oven mitts
• Aluminum foil

Tips for Preparing the Recipe

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook your pasta until it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven during baking. This helps prevent it from becoming overly soft and mushy.

• Use Leftover Turkey: This recipe is perfect for utilizing leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or any other meal. Shred or chop the turkey into bite-sized pieces for an ideal texture.

• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses to customize the flavor of the dish. While Swiss cheese and Parmesan are classic choices, feel free to add a bit of sharp cheddar for a kick.

• Sauté Vegetables Properly: Ensure that you sauté any vegetables (like mushrooms and onions) until they are softened and slightly caramelized to enhance their flavor.

• Herb and Spice Customization: Adjust the amount of herbs and spices according to your taste preferences. Fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme can brighten the dish up dramatically.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce and the pasta mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add cheese and bake when you’re ready to serve.

• For a Deeper Flavor: Consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce as you sauté the vegetables to create depth of flavor.

Difficulty Level

The difficulty level for this recipe is Intermediate. It requires some basic cooking skills, including sautéing, baking, and mixing ingredients, making it an achievable dish for home cooks with a bit of experience.

Recipe Course and Cuisine

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Serving and Presentation Recommendations

To serve Turkey Tetrazzini, let the dish rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to separate into portions. Serve in individual bowls or plates, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.

For an elegant presentation, consider placing a dollop of homemade herb cream or a sprinkle of crispy breadcrumbs on top before serving. Pair with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette and some crusty bread for a complete meal that looks as good as it tastes.

Storage Conditions

Turkey Tetrazzini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When storing leftovers, let the dish cool completely before sealing it to prevent condensation, which can make the pasta soggy.

To freeze, portion out the tetrazzini in individual servings in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, around 20-25 minutes.

Health Benefits

Turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and overall health. It is also low in fat, particularly if you use breast meat. The addition of vegetables such as mushrooms, onions, and garlic adds dietary fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that are beneficial for your immune system.

Whole wheat pasta (if used) provides complex carbohydrates, keeping you satiated longer and aiding in digestive health. It also has a lower glycemic index than its white counterpart, making it a better option for stabilizing blood sugar levels.

Recommendations for Vegans

To make this dish vegan-friendly, consider substituting turkey with a plant-based alternative, like shredded jackfruit or homemade lentil filling. Use non-dairy milk (such as almond or oat milk) and nutritional yeast in place of cream and cheese, respectively, to achieve the creamy texture and cheesy flavor. Choosing whole grain or gluten-free pasta can also enhance the nutritional profile for a vegan version.

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