There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, creamy casserole straight out of the oven, especially when it’s packed with tender turkey, savory mushrooms, and a rich, cheesy sauce. Turkey Tetrazzini has always been one of my go-to recipes for using up leftover turkey, but honestly, I love it so much that I’ll roast a turkey breast just to make this dish. It’s the perfect blend of hearty and indulgent, making it a family favorite during the colder months or even as a special weeknight treat.
This recipe is a modern twist on the classic Tetrazzini, which originated in the early 20th century. It’s named after the Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini, and while the original version was likely made with chicken, I find that turkey adds a deeper, richer flavor. The combination of pasta, creamy sauce, and a crispy breadcrumb topping is simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this Turkey Tetrazzini is sure to satisfy.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Turkey: The star of the dish, turkey brings a hearty, savory flavor. You can use leftover roasted turkey or cook a turkey breast specifically for this recipe. Shredded or diced turkey works best, as it blends seamlessly into the creamy sauce.
Spaghetti: The classic pasta choice for Tetrazzini, spaghetti provides the perfect base for the dish. Its long strands hold the sauce beautifully, creating a satisfying texture in every bite.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for their earthy flavor and meaty texture. They add depth to the dish and pair wonderfully with the turkey and creamy sauce.
Butter: Unsalted butter is essential for sautéing the mushrooms and creating the roux for the sauce. It adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
Flour: All-purpose flour is used to thicken the sauce, giving it that creamy, velvety consistency we all love in a Tetrazzini.
Chicken Broth: This forms the base of the sauce, adding savory notes and moisture. I recommend using low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
Heavy Cream: For that luxurious, creamy texture, heavy cream is a must. It balances the savory elements and makes the sauce irresistibly smooth.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty, salty flavor that enhances the dish. It’s used both in the sauce and as a topping for extra richness.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are my go-to for the topping because they create a light, crispy crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling.
Seasonings: A mix of garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper adds layers of flavor to the dish. Fresh parsley is also used for a pop of color and freshness.
Ingredients List
- 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make Turkey Tetrazzini
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they’re golden brown and tender, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the mushrooms from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook for another minute to create a roux. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 3/4 cup of Parmesan cheese until melted. Add the cooked spaghetti, turkey, and sautéed mushrooms to the sauce, tossing everything together until well coated. Season with onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs with the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake the Tetrazzini for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly and tastes better.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, it’s important to cook it al dente to avoid a mushy texture.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, spinach, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Freeze for Later: Turkey Tetrazzini freezes well. Simply bake it, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Chicken Tetrazzini is just as delicious. Use cooked, shredded chicken in place of turkey.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the spaghetti with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be as rich. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I add wine to the sauce?
Yes! A splash of white wine added to the mushrooms while sautéing can enhance the flavor of the dish.
Enjoy making and savoring this comforting Turkey Tetrazzini—it’s a dish that never fails to bring smiles to the table!