Turkey Tetrazzini is a creamy and comforting pasta dish made with turkey, mushrooms, and a rich sauce topped with cheese. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Whenever I make this, I feel like a kitchen superstar! It’s a great way to use up leftover turkey. Plus, who can resist cheesy goodness? Let’s just say, my family loves it! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: Egg noodles are essential for texture. If you’re looking for a substitute, consider using any other pasta like rotini or penne, or even gluten-free options made from rice or quinoa.
Turkey: Cooked turkey is the star here, perfect for using leftovers. If you don’t have turkey, rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breast can work nicely as a substitute.
Mushrooms: Button or cremini mushrooms enhance the flavor. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, you can skip them or replace them with spinach or cooked broccoli for extra color and nutrients.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even a mix of milk with a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken. This maintains creaminess without the extra calories.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a lovely depth. If you need a substitution, pecorino romano, nutritional yeast, or any strong cheese can do the job.
How Do I Ensure a Creamy Sauce Without Clumps?
Making a smooth sauce is crucial for a good tetrazzini. Here’s how to avoid clumps:
- Start by melting the butter and sautéing onions and garlic, which builds flavor.
- When you add flour, make sure you cook it for about a minute until lightly browned. This prevents the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while cooking to avoid lumps. Stir continuously as it thickens.
- Lastly, add the heavy cream slowly, letting it integrate fully before moving on. This keeps your sauce smooth and creamy.
How to Make Turkey Tetrazzini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Turkey Tetrazzini recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll be looking at around 45-50 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Cook Noodles:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente (cooked but still firm). Once they’re ready, drain them and set them aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
Next, grab a large skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook them for another 5 minutes, until they’re tender and releasing their juices.
3. Make the Sauce:
Now, stir in the flour and keep cooking for about a minute until it turns lightly browned. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously. This will help the mix thicken nicely. Once it’s thick, stir in the heavy cream and mix well. Now, add the cooked turkey, frozen peas, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all those yummy flavors!
4. Combine and Bake:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with the turkey mixture, making sure the noodles are well coated. Next, transfer this hearty mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top it off by evenly sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs on top.
5. Bake and Serve:
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Don’t forget to sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a nice fresh touch! Enjoy your warm and comforting Turkey Tetrazzini!
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional in this recipe, you can substitute them with any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just cook according to package instructions for the best results!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter (use ¾ cup of milk with ¼ cup of melted butter). This will give a similar creamy texture without compromising too much on richness.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. If reheating in the microwave, cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Can I Freeze Turkey Tetrazzini?
Yes, turkey tetrazzini freezes well! After baking, let it cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
