Creamy Dreamy Turkey Tetrazzini: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Turkey Tetrazzini is a classic American casserole that’s the perfect way to use up leftover turkey, especially after Thanksgiving or Christmas. But don’t let the leftovers confine you! This creamy, comforting dish is so delicious, it’s worth making turkey *just* to make Tetrazzini. It’s a satisfying blend of tender turkey, mushrooms, peas, and a rich, velvety sauce, all baked to golden perfection. This recipe is easy to adapt to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a family favorite that can be enjoyed year-round.

## What is Turkey Tetrazzini?

Turkey Tetrazzini is a baked pasta dish featuring turkey, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce often flavored with sherry or white wine. It typically includes peas or other vegetables and is topped with breadcrumbs or cheese for a golden-brown crust. The dish is named after opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini, though its exact origins are debated. Some say it was created at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco in the early 20th century, while others attribute it to the Knickerbocker Hotel in New York City. Regardless of its origin, Turkey Tetrazzini has become a beloved comfort food staple.

## Why This Recipe Works

This recipe hits all the right notes because it focuses on:

* **Flavor Depth:** The combination of sautéed mushrooms, onions, and garlic creates a flavorful base for the sauce. Sherry or white wine (optional but highly recommended) adds another layer of complexity.
* **Creamy Texture:** A roux-based sauce ensures a thick, luxurious texture that coats the pasta and turkey perfectly. Using both heavy cream and chicken broth strikes a balance between richness and lightness.
* **Tender Turkey:** Whether you’re using leftover roasted turkey or freshly cooked turkey breast, the key is to ensure it’s moist and tender. Cutting the turkey into bite-sized pieces makes it easy to incorporate into the casserole.
* **Perfectly Cooked Pasta:** Cooking the pasta al dente prevents it from becoming mushy in the casserole. The pasta continues to cook in the sauce while baking, so it’s essential to start with slightly undercooked pasta.
* **Golden-Brown Topping:** A sprinkle of breadcrumbs or grated Parmesan cheese adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal to the finished dish.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe:

* **Turkey:** 3-4 cups cooked turkey, shredded or cubed. Leftover roasted turkey is ideal, but you can also use cooked turkey breast or even rotisserie chicken if you’re in a pinch.
* **Pasta:** 1 pound spaghetti, linguine, or egg noodles. I prefer spaghetti or linguine for their texture, but egg noodles are a classic choice.
* **Mushrooms:** 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced. Cremini or white button mushrooms work well. You can also use a mix of different types of mushrooms for a more complex flavor.
* **Onion:** 1 medium onion, chopped. Yellow or white onion is fine.
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves garlic, minced. Fresh garlic is best, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch.
* **Butter:** 6 tablespoons butter, divided. Use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of the sauce.
* **Flour:** 1/4 cup all-purpose flour. This is used to make the roux, which thickens the sauce.
* **Chicken Broth:** 3 cups chicken broth. Use low-sodium chicken broth to avoid making the casserole too salty.
* **Heavy Cream:** 1 cup heavy cream. This adds richness and creaminess to the sauce. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter option.
* **Sherry or White Wine:** 1/4 cup dry sherry or dry white wine (optional). This adds a depth of flavor to the sauce. If you don’t want to use alcohol, you can substitute chicken broth.
* **Frozen Peas:** 1 cup frozen peas. You can also use other vegetables, such as green beans or carrots.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided. Use a good quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Part of it will be used inside the casserole and the rest as the topping.
* **Breadcrumbs:** 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional). Panko breadcrumbs provide a nice crispy topping. Italian seasoned breadcrumbs can also be used.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste. Be sure to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
* **Olive Oil:** 1 tablespoon, for sautéing the vegetables.
* **Fresh Parsley:** 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish).

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Turkey Tetrazzini:

**1. Cook the Pasta:**

* Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
* Add the pasta and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.

**2. Sauté the Vegetables:**

* In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
* Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
* Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic and cook until the mushrooms are tender and browned, about 8-10 minutes.
* Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.

**3. Make the Sauce:**

* In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
* Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
* Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to smooth out any lumps.
* Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
* Stir in the heavy cream and sherry or white wine (if using).
* Season with salt and pepper to taste.
* Reduce heat to low and simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

**4. Assemble the Casserole:**

* Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
* In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, cooked turkey, frozen peas, and 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese.
* Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir gently to combine.

**5. Bake the Casserole:**

* Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
* Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
* Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs (if using) over the top.
* Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the topping is golden brown.

**6. Garnish and Serve:**

* Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
* Garnish with fresh parsley, chopped, and serve hot.

## Tips for the Perfect Turkey Tetrazzini

* **Don’t Overcook the Pasta:** Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the casserole. Be sure to cook it al dente.
* **Use Good Quality Ingredients:** The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of the dish. Use fresh mushrooms, good quality Parmesan cheese, and flavorful chicken broth.
* **Adjust the Seasoning:** Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to suit your taste.
* **Make it Ahead:** You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
* **Freeze it for Later:** Turkey Tetrazzini freezes well. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. You may need to add a little extra chicken broth when reheating if the casserole seems dry.
* **Get Creative with Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the casserole, such as green beans, carrots, or bell peppers. Just make sure to cook them until tender before adding them to the mixture.
* **Add a Pinch of Nutmeg:** A pinch of ground nutmeg in the sauce adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the flavor.
* **Use Different Types of Cheese:** Experiment with different types of cheese in the topping, such as Gruyere, mozzarella, or cheddar.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour to make this dish gluten-free.

## Variations and Substitutions

This Turkey Tetrazzini recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:

* **Chicken Tetrazzini:** Substitute cooked chicken for the turkey. This is a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken.
* **Seafood Tetrazzini:** Use cooked shrimp or scallops instead of turkey for a seafood version.
* **Vegetarian Tetrazzini:** Omit the turkey and add extra vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or asparagus. You can also add tofu or tempeh for protein.
* **Cream of Mushroom Soup:** If you’re short on time, you can use cream of mushroom soup instead of making a roux-based sauce. Use two cans of condensed cream of mushroom soup and reduce the amount of chicken broth to 1 cup.
* **Sour Cream:** Add 1/2 cup of sour cream to the sauce for a tangier flavor.
* **Different Types of Pasta:** Experiment with different types of pasta, such as penne, rotini, or farfalle.
* **Add Bacon:** Cooked and crumbled bacon adds a smoky flavor to the casserole.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Try adding different herbs to the sauce, such as thyme, rosemary, or sage.
* **Lemon Zest:** A little lemon zest adds a bright, fresh flavor to the dish.
* **Spice it up with hot sauce:** A dash of your favorite hot sauce could add some heat.

## Serving Suggestions

Turkey Tetrazzini is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side dish.

* **Green Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
* **Garlic Bread:** Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
* **Steamed Vegetables:** Steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans are healthy and delicious side dishes.
* **Cranberry Sauce:** If you’re serving Turkey Tetrazzini after Thanksgiving, cranberry sauce is a classic accompaniment.
* **Rolls or Biscuits:** Warm rolls or biscuits are always a welcome addition to any meal.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Store leftover Turkey Tetrazzini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheat:** Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in individual portions. You may need to add a little extra chicken broth or milk if the casserole seems dry.
* **Freeze:** Freeze assembled (unbaked) casserole in a freezer-safe dish, covered tightly with foil, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, adding about 10-15 minutes to baking time.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: Can I use leftover chicken instead of turkey?**
A: Yes, absolutely! Chicken Tetrazzini is a very common and delicious variation.

**Q: Can I make this ahead of time?**
A: Yes! Assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

**Q: Can I freeze Turkey Tetrazzini?**
A: Yes, it freezes well. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

**Q: Can I use cream of mushroom soup instead of making the sauce?**
A: Yes, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup for the sauce. Use two cans of condensed cream of mushroom soup and reduce the amount of chicken broth to 1 cup.

**Q: What kind of pasta is best for Turkey Tetrazzini?**
A: Spaghetti, linguine, and egg noodles are all good choices. I prefer spaghetti or linguine for their texture, but egg noodles are a classic option.

**Q: Can I add other vegetables to Turkey Tetrazzini?**
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables, such as green beans, carrots, or bell peppers. Just make sure to cook them until tender before adding them to the mixture.

**Q: Is Turkey Tetrazzini gluten-free?**
A: No, Turkey Tetrazzini is not naturally gluten-free. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour.

**Q: What can I substitute for sherry or white wine in the sauce?**
A: You can substitute chicken broth for the sherry or white wine. It will still be delicious, but it won’t have the same depth of flavor.

**Q: How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?**
A: The key is to cook the pasta al dente. It will continue to cook in the sauce while baking, so you want to start with slightly undercooked pasta.

**Q: How do I keep the Tetrazzini from drying out?**
A: Make sure you have enough sauce covering the ingredients. If baking after refrigerating, add a splash of broth before baking. Don’t overbake, as this can dry it out.

## Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe Card

**Yields:** 8 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 45 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound spaghetti, linguine, or egg noodles
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 6 tablespoons butter, divided
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 3 cups chicken broth
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 cup dry sherry or dry white wine (optional)
* 3-4 cups cooked turkey, shredded or cubed
* 1 cup frozen peas
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add mushrooms and garlic and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Melt 4 tablespoons butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and sherry or wine (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, vegetables, turkey, peas, and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese. Pour sauce over the mixture and stir gently.
6. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with remaining butter. Pour pasta mixture into the dish. Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and topping is golden brown.
8. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Turkey Tetrazzini! This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, perfect for using up leftovers or simply enjoying a comforting and satisfying meal.