Perfect Turkey Tetrazzini Recipes

Turkey Tetrazzini is the perfect dish for transforming your leftover turkey into a comforting, savory meal. A delicious casserole made with tender turkey, mushrooms, and pasta, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce, Turkey Tetrazzini is a crowd-pleasing dinner that can easily become a family favorite. Whether you’re using up leftover turkey from the holidays or preparing a fresh batch, this recipe is both satisfying and customizable.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making Turkey Tetrazzini, from the essential ingredients to tips for enhancing the flavor and texture. This dish is versatile enough to be enjoyed all year long, and it’s easy to prepare for both busy weeknights and special gatherings.

What Makes Turkey Tetrazzini So Special?

Turkey Tetrazzini has been around for decades, and it’s become a staple comfort food in many households. The reason? It combines several classic and beloved ingredients—turkey, pasta, creamy sauce, and cheese—into a single, hearty dish that everyone loves. The combination of these flavors with a crispy, golden top is irresistibly delicious.

Key Features of Turkey Tetrazzini:

• Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover turkey from a holiday meal.

• Hearty and Filling: The dish is packed with protein and carbs, making it a satisfying option for dinner.

• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to fit your tastes, swapping in different vegetables or cheeses.

• Rich and Creamy: The sauce is made from a combination of cream cheese and broth, creating a rich, comforting texture that pairs wonderfully with the pasta.

 

Essential Ingredients for Turkey Tetrazzini Recipes

Before you start preparing your Turkey Tetrazzini, it’s important to gather the key ingredients that will bring this dish to life. Here’s a breakdown of the essential components:

Main Ingredients:

• Cooked Turkey: Shredded or diced turkey is the main protein in this dish. You can use leftover turkey from a holiday feast or cook some fresh turkey breasts or thighs.

• Pasta: Spaghetti is the traditional choice for Turkey Tetrazzini, but you can also use other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni if you prefer.

• Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add an earthy, savory flavor to the dish. You can use white mushrooms, cremini, or even shiitake mushrooms for added depth of flavor.

• Onion and Garlic: These aromatics form the base of the sauce, adding a fragrant, savory layer to the dish.

• Cream Cheese: Spreadable cream cheese provides a creamy, rich base for the sauce. You can use flavored cream cheese like garlic and herb for extra flavor.

• Chicken Broth: Reduced-sodium chicken broth helps to balance the richness of the cream cheese while creating a smooth sauce.

• Half-and-Half or Light Cream: This ingredient adds creaminess to the sauce without being as heavy as full-fat cream.

• Cheese: Shredded mozzarella cheese is the typical choice for Turkey Tetrazzini, but a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan works well too.

• Italian Seasoning and Fresh Parsley: These seasonings give the dish a classic Italian flair and brighten up the overall flavor.

Optional Ingredients:

• Vegetables: You can customize the dish by adding vegetables like peas, carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach. The key is to chop them small so they cook evenly.

• Breadcrumb Topping: For extra crunch, you can top the casserole with a mixture of breadcrumbs and melted butter before baking.

• Sherry or White Wine: A splash of dry sherry or white wine can add depth and complexity to the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Turkey Tetrazzini

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to put everything together. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and creamy Turkey Tetrazzini.

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent the Tetrazzini from sticking.

2. Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. It’s important not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

3. Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they release their moisture and become tender.

Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly add the chicken broth and half-and-half, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste.

4. Combine Pasta, Turkey, and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, turkey, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and the creamy mushroom sauce. Stir until everything is well-coated.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Pour the pasta and turkey mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

6. Bake the Tetrazzini

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.

7. Garnish and Serve

Once the Turkey Tetrazzini is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with a side of garden salad and crusty bread.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Turkey Tetrazzini

While the steps for making Turkey Tetrazzini are simple, there are a few expert tips that can help take your dish to the next level:

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, it’s important to cook it al dente (slightly firm). This will prevent the pasta from becoming mushy in the final dish.

2. Use Leftover Turkey

Turkey Tetrazzini is the perfect dish to use up leftover turkey from a holiday meal. Shred or chop the turkey into bite-sized pieces to make the most of your leftovers.

3. Make It Ahead

This dish can easily be made ahead of time. Prepare the Tetrazzini, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed. This is perfect for busy nights or when entertaining guests.

4. Adjust the Seasonings

Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you prefer more garlic, add an extra clove. For a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.

Variations and Customizations for Turkey Tetrazzini Recipes

While the classic Turkey Tetrazzini recipe is delicious on its own, it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to suit different dietary preferences, taste profiles, or what you have on hand in the kitchen. Here are some creative variations to make your Turkey Tetrazzini recipe even more exciting and personalized.

1. Vegetarian Turkey Tetrazzini

If you’re looking for a meatless option or want to make a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish, you can swap out the turkey for a plant-based protein. Here are some ideas:

• Mushrooms: Use extra mushrooms in place of the turkey for a savory, meaty texture. You can even add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers to bulk up the dish.

• Tofu or Tempeh: For a plant-based protein, you can use crumbled tofu or tempeh. Both options will absorb the creamy sauce and provide texture similar to turkey.

• Lentils: Another great plant-based option is cooked lentils. These have a hearty, earthy flavor that works wonderfully in this creamy pasta dish.

2. Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Tetrazzini

If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, you can modify this recipe to fit your needs without sacrificing flavor:

• Cauliflower Rice: Instead of pasta, use cauliflower rice as the base. It’s a low-carb option that still provides the texture of rice and absorbs the sauce beautifully.

• Zucchini Noodles: For a noodle-like texture, spiralize zucchini into zucchini noodles (zoodles). This makes a great substitute for traditional pasta while keeping the dish low in carbs.

• Almond Flour: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour to make the sauce thicker while keeping the dish keto-friendly.

3. Gluten-Free Turkey Tetrazzini

If you need a gluten-free version of Turkey Tetrazzini, there are simple swaps you can make to ensure everyone can enjoy this dish:

• Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta, which is widely available and comes in many different varieties (spaghetti, penne, etc.). Be sure to cook it al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.

• Cornstarch for Thickening: If you want to make sure the sauce is gluten-free, use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the sauce. This will provide the same creamy texture without using wheat flour.

4. Dairy-Free Tetrazzini

For a dairy-free version, you can swap out dairy-based ingredients for plant-based alternatives:

• Dairy-Free Cream Cheese: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to make the sauce rich and creamy.

• Almond Milk or Coconut Milk: Instead of half-and-half or light cream, use almond milk, coconut milk, or a coconut-based cream. These alternatives will still give the sauce a smooth and creamy texture.

• Dairy-Free Cheese: Use dairy-free cheese for the topping, ensuring it melts well and adds flavor to the dish.

5. Add Some Heat

For those who like their food with a little kick, here are a few ideas to add some spice to your Turkey Tetrazzini:

• Cayenne Pepper: Sprinkle in a little cayenne pepper into the sauce for a spicy kick.

• Chili Flakes: Red pepper flakes can be added into the sauce to bring some heat, or sprinkle them on top before serving for an extra punch.

• Jalapeños: Finely chop some fresh jalapeños and stir them into the sauce for a fresh, vibrant heat that will pair nicely with the creamy base.

6. Adding More Vegetables

While mushrooms and onions are the classic vegetables in Turkey Tetrazzini, you can make this dish even more nutritious by adding a variety of other vegetables. Here are a few great additions:

• Spinach: Add fresh spinach to the mix for a burst of color and nutrition. It wilts down beautifully when mixed with the hot sauce.

• Peas: Frozen peas are a great addition to this dish. Their sweetness complements the savory turkey and creamy sauce.

• Carrots: Add finely chopped or grated carrots for a touch of sweetness and extra vitamins.

• Bell Peppers: Add some diced bell peppers to the sauce for extra crunch and a fresh, zesty flavor.

How to Make Ahead and Store Turkey Tetrazzini

Turkey Tetrazzini is a great dish to make ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep, entertaining, or saving time on busy days. Here’s how you can store and reheat this dish without losing any of its flavor or texture:

Make-Ahead Instructions

1. Prepare the Casserole: Follow the recipe through to the point where you assemble the casserole in the baking dish, but do not bake it yet.

2. Cover and Refrigerate: Once the casserole is assembled, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

3. Bake When Ready: When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the cover and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If the casserole is cold from the fridge, it may need an extra 10-15 minutes of baking time.

Storing Leftovers

Turkey Tetrazzini makes excellent leftovers and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Here’s how to store it:

1. Cool Before Storing: Let the Tetrazzini cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container.

2. Reheat in the Oven: To reheat leftovers, place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

3. Microwave Option: You can also microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes, but be sure to add a splash of milk or broth to keep it from drying out.

Freezing Instructions

Turkey Tetrazzini freezes well, so if you want to make it ahead for later, this is a great option:

1. Prepare the Casserole: Assemble the casserole but do not bake it.

2. Cover and Freeze: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

3. Bake from Frozen: When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, cover the casserole with foil, and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 50-60 minutes. For best results, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Turkey Tetrazzini

While Turkey Tetrazzini is an easy dish to make, there are a few tips and tricks to ensure it turns out perfect every time. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, these expert tips will help you elevate your dish to the next level.

1. Perfect the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is what makes Turkey Tetrazzini so rich and comforting, so it’s important to get it just right. Here’s how to do that:

• Whisk Constantly: When adding the broth and half-and-half to the flour, make sure to whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming. This will help create a smooth, velvety sauce.

• Simmer for the Right Consistency: Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken slightly before adding the cream cheese. The goal is to have a sauce that coats the back of a spoon, but not one that’s too thick or too runny.

• Add Cream Cheese Slowly: Stir the cream cheese in gradually so it melts evenly into the sauce. If you’re using flavored cream cheese (like garlic or herb), it will enhance the flavor of the sauce and add a nice depth.

2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Pasta is the base of this casserole, and the way you cook it matters:

• Al Dente Is Key: Since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, it’s important to cook it al dente. Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy casserole when baking.

• Under-cook Slightly: If you’re unsure, undercook the pasta by a minute or two. It’s better to have slightly firmer pasta than overly soft pasta after baking.

3. Customize the Vegetables

You can use a variety of vegetables to add more flavor and nutrition to your Turkey Tetrazzini. Here are some options to consider:

• Mushrooms: Mushrooms are classic in this dish, but don’t limit yourself to just one type. Mix white mushrooms with cremini or shiitake mushrooms for a more complex flavor.

• Peas: Frozen peas are an easy addition and add a burst of color. They also provide a pop of sweetness that balances the savory turkey and creamy sauce.

• Spinach or Kale: If you want to add more greens, spinach or kale work perfectly. Be sure to chop them finely so they mix well with the sauce and pasta.

• Carrots and Bell Peppers: These vegetables add color and a slight sweetness. Finely chop them and stir them into the sauce for a satisfying bite.

4. Enhance the Flavor with Herbs and Spices

While Italian seasoning adds a great base flavor, you can make the dish more aromatic by adding more herbs or spices:

• Thyme and Rosemary: Fresh thyme or rosemary can infuse the sauce with a fragrant, herby flavor that complements the turkey.

• Nutmeg: A pinch of ground nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the sauce, making it richer and more flavorful.

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving not only adds a fresh burst of flavor but also gives the casserole a beautiful, vibrant look.

5. Make It Extra Cheesy

While the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses are already delicious, adding a little extra cheese can make your Tetrazzini even more indulgent. Here’s how to amp up the cheese factor:

• Add Cheese to the Sauce: Mix in an extra handful of shredded cheese (such as cheddar or provolone) into the sauce before adding it to the pasta. This will make the sauce even more creamy and cheesy.

• Top with More Cheese: For a golden, bubbly crust, top your casserole with a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan before baking. This will give you that irresistible cheesy, crispy topping.

Pairing Your Turkey Tetrazzini

Turkey Tetrazzini is rich, creamy, and filling, so pairing it with the right sides is essential to balance the meal. Here are some great options for pairing:

1. Garden Salad

A light, crisp salad is the perfect way to balance out the richness of the Tetrazzini. Consider making a simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing. This adds freshness and crunch, which complements the creamy casserole.

2. Crusty Bread

A warm, crusty baguette or rustic bread is ideal for serving with Turkey Tetrazzini. The bread can be used to scoop up the creamy sauce and adds a nice texture to the meal. You can also serve it with a little butter or garlic spread for added flavor.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes, make a great side dish. The slight sweetness of roasted vegetables pairs well with the savory, creamy flavors of the Tetrazzini.

4. Garlic Bread

If you want to take the meal to the next level, garlic bread is always a hit. The buttery, garlicky flavor of the bread complements the rich and creamy pasta perfectly, and it’s an easy side to prepare.

Conclusion Turkey Tetrazzini Recipes

Turkey Tetrazzini is more than just a leftover dish; it’s a comforting, hearty meal that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re using up leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or preparing it fresh, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

With its creamy, cheesy sauce, tender turkey, and savory mushrooms, Turkey Tetrazzini is the kind of dish that makes people excited about leftovers! Plus, with endless variations, you can easily customize the recipe to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. From adding extra veggies to making it keto-friendly, Turkey Tetrazzini is a dish that can evolve with your needs and preferences.

So next time you’re looking for a way to enjoy turkey in a new and exciting way, try this classic Turkey Tetrazzini recipe and enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe Card

Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 12 ounces spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice)

• 3 tablespoons salted butter

• 1 onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 12 ounces mushrooms, sliced

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 ¼ cups reduced-sodium chicken broth

• 8 ounces spreadable cream cheese (garlic or herb flavor)

• 1 ⅓ cups half-and-half or light cream

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 2 cups cooked, chopped turkey (leftover or freshly cooked)

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

• ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the pasta al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and garlic, and cook until softened. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 3 more minutes.

4. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add chicken broth and half-and-half. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until thickened (about 1-2 minutes).

5. Stir in cream cheese until melted. Add parsley and Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, turkey, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and the creamy mushroom sauce. Mix until well combined.

7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.

8. Bake covered with aluminum foil for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

9. Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Notes:

• Make-Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just follow the same baking instructions.

• Vegetable Variations: You can add vegetables like spinach, peas, or carrots to the casserole for more flavor and nutrition.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese, non-dairy milk, and dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free version.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 462 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 41g

• Protein: 26g

• Fat: 21g

• Saturated Fat: 12g

• Cholesterol: 82mg

• Sodium: 680mg

• Potassium: 484mg

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 4g

• Vitamin A: 870 IU

• Vitamin C: 7.9mg

• Calcium: 406mg

• Iron: 1.6mg

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Method: Baking

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Servings: 8 servings

Yield: 1 9×13-inch casserole

Calories: 462 kcal per serving