Ultimate Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction: Creamy Dreams Are Made of This!
Ever stare at that leftover turkey and think, "There has to be a better way"? Well, grab your fork, butter knife and let’s talk Turkey Tetrazzini .
Honestly, folks, this comfort food casserole is like a warm hug on a plate!
Quick Hook: From Leftovers to Loveliness
Are you seeking a recipe for Baked Turkey ? You can repurpose those Thanksgiving leftovers recipe and transform your Boxing Day bird into something truly special.
It is one of the best Leftover turkey recipes , turning the old bird in a new, yummy Dinner Dishes .
Turkey Tetrazzini : A Brief History
This creamy turkey pasta bake didn't just appear out of thin air. It's believed to have been created in San Francisco.
It was named after an opera singer, Luisa Tetrazzini! This recipe is a medium difficulty. It takes about 1 hour from start to finish and makes enough for 6-8 people.
Great for a Family Dinner !
Turkey Tetrazzini : Main Perks
The creaminess is just the beginning! It is rich in protein from the turkey. Also the pasta and veggies bring some fibre to the table.
This Turkey Tetrazzini is perfect for a cosy night in. Also it is great for using up those leftovers after a big roast.
What makes this recipe extra special? The sherry in the sauce adds a touch of sophistication. It elevates it from standard leftover fare to something truly delightful.
It is one of those Pasta Dishes that just hits the spot. I have fond memories of my nan making this for us!
Ready to get cooking?
Ingredients & Equipment
Right, let's get started on this Turkey Tetrazzini . It's proper comfort food, innit? We're turning that leftover turkey into something special. Time for our favourite pasta dishes !
Main Ingredients
Here's what you'll need. I've included both US and metric, because I'm good like that.
For the Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons (60ml) unsalted butter. Go for proper butter, not margarine!
- 1 medium yellow onion , finely chopped. About 1 cup (150g) .
- 8 ounces (225g) cremini mushrooms, sliced. Look for firm ones.
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 3 cups (720ml) chicken broth, low sodium. Essential for flavour.
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream. Makes it creamy !
- 1/4 cup (60ml) dry sherry (or dry white wine).Adds a touch of class.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
For the Pasta & Turkey:
- 1 pound (450g) spaghetti or linguine. I love spaghetti.
- 3 cups (approx. 500g) cooked turkey , cut into 1/2 inch cubes. Perfect Thanksgiving leftovers recipe !
- 1/2 cup (50g) frozen peas, thawed
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup (50g) Panko breadcrumbs. These are awesome!
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
- 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
Honestly, the quality of the chicken broth and Thanksgiving leftovers recipe will make or break the sauce. Spend a bit more on decent stuff.
Seasoning Notes
Time to talk spices. Essential combos for this comfort food casserole :
- Nutmeg. It might sound weird, but it really elevates the Creamy turkey pasta bake !
- Salt and pepper are a must, but don't be shy! Season generously.
For aromatics, the onion and sherry are key. If you don't have sherry, a dry white wine will do in a pinch.
Honestly, the sherry adds something special, but you know, whatever you have! This Turkey Tetrazzini recipe variations makes it very adaptable for any kitchen.
Equipment Needed
You don't need loads of fancy kit for this. Just the basics:
- Large pot for cooking pasta. Obvious, really.
- Large skillet or Dutch oven. For the sauce.
- 9x13 inch baking dish. Pyrex is your friend here.
- Whisk. For smooth sauce action.
- Wooden spoon or spatula. For stirring!
If you don't have a whisk, a fork will do. If you don't have a baking dish...well, get one! A roasting tray can also work.
This Turkey Tetrazzini , perfect as dinner dishes , is gonna be epic! Get ready for some serious family dinner vibes! It's the perfect way to use leftover turkey recipes and create something amazing from your baked turkey .
Ultimate Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini : Leftover Turkey's Second Act
Oh my gosh, I have the answer for all that leftover baked turkey ! Say hello to the Turkey Tetrazzini , one of my absolute fave pasta dishes to whip up after Thanksgiving or Christmas.
It's creamy, dreamy, and the ultimate comfort food casserole . Honestly, it's like a warm hug in a dish. And the best part? It totally transforms those Thanksgiving leftovers recipe into something spectacular.
Did you know the Turkey Tetrazzini is thought to have originated in San Francisco? Named after opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini.
How fancy is that?
This recipe might seem a tad intimidating at first glance. But trust me, it’s totally doable! It falls into the "medium" difficulty range because there are a few steps.
But I promise, it's worth the effort! We're talking a total time of about an hour 25 minutes of prep and 35 minutes in the oven.
This recipe makes enough for 6-8 hungry people, perfect for a family dinner .
Prep Steps for Turkey Tetrazzini
- Essential mise en place: Get everything chopped, measured, and ready to go. It's a game changer.
- Time saving organization tips: Chop your onion and mushrooms while the pasta water heats up! Every minute counts!
- Safety reminders: Don't be a hero! Use oven mitts when handling hot dishes.
step-by-step Process
- Cook 450g of spaghetti according to package directions. Drain it well!
- Melt 60ml of butter in a large skillet. Sauté one chopped onion until soft. Add 225g sliced mushrooms and cook until browned.
- Stir in 30g of flour and cook for 1 minute . Gradually whisk in 720ml chicken broth. Simmer until it thickens.
- Stir in 240ml heavy cream, 60ml sherry, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper!
- Add the cooked pasta, 500g cubed turkey , and 50g thawed peas to the sauce. Toss gently to coat.
- Combine 50g panko breadcrumbs, 30ml olive oil, and 25g Parmesan cheese in a small bowl for the topping.
- Pour the pasta mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with the breadcrumb topping.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 175° C until golden brown and bubbly, about 35 minutes .
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy turkey pasta bake
- Don't overcook the pasta! Al dente is the way to go. It keeps it’s shape so much better.
- Toast those breadcrumbs! Toasting them in a dry pan before baking gives them an extra crunch. You know? Game changer!
- Common mistakes to avoid: Adding too much sherry. Less is more, trust me. Honestly this is the perfect leftover turkey recipes if you're looking for dinner dishes ! You're gonna love this Tetrazzini recipe variations
Ultimate Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini: Leftover Turkey's Second Act
This Turkey Tetrazzini recipe is about to become your new best friend. Honestly, it's the only way I look forward to leftover turkey recipes after the big day! We're talking comfort food casserole heaven, people.
This dish is thought to have originated in San Francisco, named after opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini.
Recipe Notes That'll Make Your Life Easier
Right, before we dive into this glorious Creamy Turkey Pasta Bake , let's chat about a few things. These are tips I've picked up along the way, 'cause trust me, I've had my fair share of kitchen mishaps! You know?
Serving This Bad Boy
- Plating and Presentation Ideas: Okay, so we’re not winning any Michelin stars here, but presentation matters! A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color. Serve straight from the baking dish for that rustic family dinner vibe.
- Complementary Sides or Beverages: I'm telling ya, a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Garlic bread is also a must because... well, carbs! As for drinks, a crisp Pinot Grigio is always a winner.
Storage? Sorted!
- Refrigeration Guidelines: This Turkey Tetrazzini will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days . Make sure it's in an airtight container.
- Freezing Options: Good news! You can freeze it. Wrap it well in foil and then pop it in a freezer bag. It'll last for up to 3 months .
- Reheating Instructions: Reheat individual portions in the microwave. For a larger batch, cover it with foil and bake it in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through.
Tetrazzini Recipe Variations – Let's Get Creative
- Dietary Adaptations: Wanna make it lighter? Use half and-half instead of heavy cream. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.
- Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: Swap out the peas for roasted asparagus in the spring. Or, try adding some butternut squash in the fall. It's all about using what's in season! Plus, you can swap the turkey for chicken and make it into a Chicken Tetrazzini .
Nutrition Basics
- Simplified Nutrition Information: Roughly, you're looking at 450-550 calories per serving. It's packed with protein (30-35g) and has a good amount of carbs (40-50g) for energy.
- Key Health Benefits: Turkey is a great source of lean protein. Plus, the mushrooms add some extra nutrients. Just remember, everything in moderation, yeah?
This Baked Turkey recipe is honestly so simple. It's also a great option for dinner dishes and the whole family.
Don't be afraid to get creative and make it your own! You got this.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Turkey Tetrazzini ahead of time? I'm juggling more balls than a circus performer these days!
Absolutely! You can assemble the Turkey Tetrazzini up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time, ensuring it's heated through and bubbly.
Just think of it as your secret weapon for a stress free dinner.
My family isn't keen on mushrooms. What can I substitute in this Turkey Tetrazzini recipe?
No worries, mate! You can easily swap out the mushrooms for other veggies. Broccoli florets, asparagus tips, or even some finely chopped bell peppers would work a treat. Just add them to the sauce around the same time you would have added the mushrooms, ensuring they're tender crisp before moving on.
How long does leftover Turkey Tetrazzini last in the fridge, and what's the best way to reheat it?
Leftover Turkey Tetrazzini will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container. For reheating, the oven is your best bet to keep the texture nice: cover it loosely with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, usually about 20-30 minutes.
You can also microwave it, but be aware it might get a bit softer.
I don't have any sherry on hand. What's a good substitute for the sherry in the sauce for the Turkey Tetrazzini?
A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc makes an excellent substitute. If you prefer not to use alcohol, chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice will provide a similar tang and depth of flavor.
Just remember, a little acidity helps to balance the richness of the creamy sauce, so don't skip that element entirely!
Is it possible to make Turkey Tetrazzini gluten-free? My Aunt Mildred is coming and she's gone all "free from"!
You bet! Simply use your favourite gluten-free pasta there are some great options out there these days. For the sauce, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Just make sure to check the labels of all your ingredients to ensure they're certified gluten-free, and Aunt Mildred will be singing your praises.
Can I freeze Turkey Tetrazzini? I'm a batch cooking ninja!
Freezing tetrazzini is doable, but the texture can change a bit. The sauce might become a bit grainy. For best results, undercook the pasta slightly and assemble the dish without the breadcrumb topping. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw completely in the fridge before baking, then add the topping and bake as directed. Keep those batch cooking wins coming!
Ultimate Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450-550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20-25g |
| Fiber | 3-4g |