This creamy turkey tetrazzini is a comforting casserole dinner recipe perfect for using up leftover turkey or making a delicious weeknight meal. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare this hearty and satisfying dish for your family.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Cooked Turkey: Use leftover roasted turkey or shredded cooked chicken.
- Pasta: Egg noodles or spaghetti work best; choose your favorite.
- Mushrooms: Fresh sliced mushrooms are ideal, but you can use canned if fresh aren’t available.
- Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth is a suitable alternative.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: You can substitute with cream of chicken soup.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 8 ounces egg noodles or spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
Optional:
- 1/4 cup frozen peas
Spices:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Tools Needed: Large pot, 9×13 inch baking dish, large skillet
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pasta
Cook the egg noodles or spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. This forms the base for your delightful casserole dinner recipe.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and chopped onion, cooking until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic powder.
3. Create the Creamy Sauce
Stir the cream of mushroom soup, milk, chicken broth, salt, and pepper into the skillet with the vegetables. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and stir in the 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. This creates the rich, creamy binder for your turkey tetrazzini.
4. Combine and Assemble
Add the cooked turkey and drained pasta to the creamy sauce in the skillet. If using, stir in the frozen peas. Gently toss everything together until the turkey and pasta are evenly coated.
5. Bake Your Casserole
Transfer the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the top for a golden finish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through, and the top is lightly browned. Your casserole dinner recipe is almost ready!
Variation Ideas:
- Add a dash of dried thyme or poultry seasoning to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Stir in some steamed broccoli florets along with the turkey for added vegetables.
- Top with a mixture of breadcrumbs and melted butter for a crispy crust.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover creamy turkey tetrazzini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
What kind of turkey should I use?
Cooked and shredded or diced turkey is best. Leftover holiday turkey works perfectly for this casserole dinner recipe.
Can I freeze turkey tetrazzini?
You can freeze baked tetrazzini for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Why are my noodles mushy?
Overcooking your pasta before adding it to the casserole can lead to mushy noodles. Cook them al dente, meaning slightly firm.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can try using dairy-free cream of mushroom soup, plant-based milk, and dairy-free cheese alternatives, though the texture might vary.
What can I serve with turkey tetrazzini?
A simple green salad or some steamed green beans make a great accompaniment to this hearty casserole dinner recipe.