Name: Turkey Tetrazzini (Southern Living) Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 (10 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup; 2/3 cup milk; 1 (16 ounce) jar alfredo sauce; 3 1/2 cups chopped cooked turkey (may sub chicken or ham); 12 ounces thin spaghetti, cooked; 1 (10 ounce) package frozen tiny peas, thawed; 1 (8 ounce) package sliced fresh mushrooms; 1 1/2 cups shredded baby swiss cheese; 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese, divided; 1/2 cup crushed onion and garlic croutons; 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Hark! Gather round, fair friends and let me regale you with a tale of a dish so wholesome, so hearty, so suited for the diners in need of comfort. I speak of none other than the beloved southern dish – Turkey Tetrazzini. This dish has been passed from generation to generation and remains an eternal favorite of many a household.

The creamy sauce made with mushroom soup and Alfredo sauce creates such depth and richness that it will keep you coming back for more. The mix of tender chunks of turkey, sliced mushrooms, frozen peas, and thin spaghetti is topped with a generous portion of Parmesan cheese and onion and garlic croutons for an added crunch in every bite.

Not only is this dish incredibly delicious but it also comes together quickly with ingredients found in most pantries. In just under 45 minutes, you can have a piping hot meal ready to serve your family or guests during those chilly winter days or any day that needs a warm-hug-from-the-inside dinner.

So gather your aprons, preheat those ovens, and join us as we take on the scrumptious journey of making this comforting recipe together. Prepare to be delighted by the delicious flavors and aromas that will fill your home with love and warmth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Oh, how the turkey tetrazzini beckons! This Southern-style pasta casserole is a classic comfort food that will leave your belly warm and full. The marriage of creamy alfredo sauce, cream of mushroom soup, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese is the perfect base for the dish, making each bite delectably satisfying. And let’s not forget about the thinly sliced baby Swiss cheese that melts beautifully over the top, adding an extra layer of flavor to this already delicious dish.

Not to mention that this recipe is incredibly versatile. Whether you have leftover turkey or recently cooked chicken, it truly works wonders with any kind of poultry you have on hand. Plus, the addition of fresh mushrooms and frozen peas adds some healthy elements to this comforting meal.

This recipe also allows for substitutions and variations to make it your very own personal creation. You can add some flair to your turkey tetrazzini by using onion and garlic croutons as a tasty topping. Or perhaps you could trade out the thin spaghetti for some hearty bowtie pasta for a change in texture.

And it’s not just my stomach that loves this recipe; my wallet does too! This casserole dinner can easily feed 8-10 people at a fraction of the cost of going out to eat. Additionally, it makes for an excellent make-ahead meal and re-heats perfectly for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

With its creamy Tetrazzini sauce made of chicken stock, milk, and Alfredo sauce whisked together with chopped turkey and fresh mushrooms – I guarantee this recipe will become a staple in your home. So why wait? Try it today!

Ingredient List

Juicy turkey breast in a creamy and cheesy pasta dish

Let me now introduce to you the list of meticulously chosen ingredients for our Turkey Tetrazzini recipe that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Don’t worry, everything is easy to find at your local grocery store. Here is what you will need:

Here is what you’ll need:

I suggest that you pick the best turkey or smoked turkey from the market to ensure great flavor for your dish. For the cheese, I recommend using a mixture of Baby Swiss and Parmesan, but you can also add other cheeses that you prefer. Let’s now get into the how-to section so we can start cooking!

The Recipe How-To

Cooking the pasta

To start making this turkey tetrazzini, I first cook a pound of thin spaghetti according to the instructions on the package. While the pasta is cooking, I prepare the other ingredients for the sauce.

Preparing the Tetrazzini Sauce

Tetrazzini sauce is not that difficult to make, and it possesses all those great flavors of onion, garlic, and mushrooms. To make this decadent sauce, I start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Then I add one cup of sliced fresh mushrooms, half a cup of chopped onions, and two cloves of minced garlic into it. I sauté them until they are softened and then slowly whisk in a can of cream of mushroom soup and a cup of milk into the mixture. Once those ingredients are combined, I add one jar (16 ounces) of alfredo sauce, stir them up, and then let the mixture come up to a slight simmer.

Adding Turkey and Peas

After preparing the Tetrazzini sauce, I stir in three cups of chopped cooked turkey or smoked turkey pieces into it along with one cup of frozen tiny peas. The latter I always keep on hand for an easy addition to dishes like this tetrazzini.

Combining Tetrazzini and Pasta

Once everything is ready, it’s time to bring together the tetrazzini sauce and cooked spaghetti. For that purpose, I add drained spaghetti noodles to prepared tetrazzini sauce-turkey-pea mixture . Then, stir until all elements are evenly combined.

Cheese Toppings

I love cheesy toppings! So before placing my casserole dish in the oven, I sprinkle with some parmesan cheese on top , then add a layer of baby swiss cheese before topping off with crushed onion and garlic croutons. This turkey tetrazzini casserole is baked at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30 minutes or until the cheese has melted and become slightly golden color.

This recipe is a perfect way to use your leftover turkey from earlier gatherings like Thanksgiving since it can be made with any kind of cooked poultry – chicken, turkey, even chicken ham if you desire. With this hearty and comforting pasta casserole dish on the table, the whole family will rejoice!

Substitutions and Variations

A hearty casserole with a Southern twist

Hark! Are you looking to add delightful and unique twists to your Turkey Tetrazzini? I have several recommendations for ingredient substitutions and variations that are sure to satisfy thy palate!

Concerned about using too much dairy in thy dish? Fear not, my friend! Instead of Alfredo sauce, I suggest thou substitute it with a simple cream of mushroom soup. The substitution will still maintain the creaminess that thy taste buds desire, but with a lighter touch. Additionally, thou can replace the Baby Swiss cheese with another type of cheese such as Parmesan cheese or even Cheddar cheese.

For those who enjoy more meat in their casserole, chicken and ham are excellent additions to the classic turkey tetrazzini. Simply swap the cooked turkey with shredded chicken or ham for a different flavor profile every time. This variation makes for an easy Chicken or Ham Tetrazzini dinner on those days when you don’t have leftover turkey.

If thee want a vegetarian option or prefer not to use meat at all, opt for more vegetables. The recipe calls for mushrooms and peas, but zucchini or eggplant would also be lovely additions to the dish. Combine them together for an all-veggie version of this pasta casserole that is sure to delight thy vegetarian friends.

Lastly, traditional spaghetti noodles are used in this recipe, but my advice is to use fettuccine or linguine noodles instead. These larger pasta shells hold onto the sauce better creating a richer experience. Plus, if you’re feeling a little bit fancy, go ahead and try various colored pasta in honor of the Southern Living Rainbow Pasta.

In conclusion, while Turkey Tetrazinni is already a loved Southern classic, these ingredient substitutions and variations will make thee wanting more! So go forth and indulge in new flavor profiles while keeping true to its roots. Bon Appétit!

Serving and Pairing

Ready to indulge in some Southern-style goodness?

When it comes to serving turkey tetrazzini, there are a few options that will perfectly complement the rich, creamy casserole flavors. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh, crisp garden salad dressed with tangy vinaigrette or lemon juice. You could also try serving it with some garlic bread for an extra burst of flavor.

A chilled glass of fruity white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling would also be a great pairing to balance the bold flavors of this dish. If you prefer red wine, opt for a light to medium-bodied Pinot Noir or Merlot. And if you want to keep it non-alcoholic, a cold glass of sweet tea is always a classic southern staple that pairs perfectly.

Another fantastic way to serve this dish is as a side for your Thanksgiving dinner. With its warm and rich flavors, turkey tetrazzini makes for the perfect addition to any holiday spread. Serve it alongside your favorite Thanksgiving staples such as roasted turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce for a truly unforgettable meal.

Whatever way you choose to serve it, this creamy and indulgent pasta casserole will have your whole family reaching for seconds. Don’t forget to sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese and crushed onion and garlic croutons on top before serving for that extra satisfying crunch!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

Perfect for those chilly fall or winter nights

Oh, the joy of having leftovers! The beauty of this turkey tetrazzini is that you don’t need to cook it fresh every time you crave for the comforting flavor. You can actually make this dish ahead of time and serve it any day of the week or save it for a special family occasion, all while ensuring incredible taste and texture.

Once prepared, let the tetrazzini cool to room temperature. Take an airtight container and store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to reheat it, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the dish on the middle shelf and bake for 25-30 minutes until reheated through.

Don’t want to wait for your oven to heat up? No worries! You can also reheat individual servings of your turkey tetrazzini in the microwave, on medium power, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of milk or cream before reheating if the sauce thickens too much in the fridge.

If you wish to keep your casserole longer than 2 days, you can freeze it as well! Once cooled completely, cover with a layer of plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Label with storage date and contents then stick them at the back of your freezer. Your tetrazzini can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When ready to enjoy again, simply thaw overnight in a refrigerator before baking according to instructions. It’s like having a homemade meal ready whenever you need it most!

Tips for Perfect Results

Hark! ’tis time for me to bestow upon thee, dear reader, some tips that shall elevate your turkey tetrazzini to the realm of culinary perfection.

First and foremost, do not overcook thy pasta. Thou shalt cook it al dente – firm to the bite – as it will continue to cook in the sauce. If cooked for too long, the spaghetti noodles shall become soft and mushy, ruining the dish’s texture.

Secondly, use fresh mushrooms for a more delectable flavor. Slice them thinly and sauté over medium heat until they are golden brown. This shall bring out their natural umami and intensify their taste.

Thirdly, make sure to add enough salt and pepper throughout the cooking process. A dash too little can cause the dish to taste bland, whereas an excess is unpleasant. Tasting while adding shall enable you to achieve a harmonious balance of flavors.

Fourthly, consider using different types of cheeses or combining them to bring an extra layer of complexity. A mixture of Baby Swiss and Parmesan cheese may be used instead of solely one type.

Fifthly, reheat your leftovers gently and slowly to prevent curdling or drying out of the sauce. A microwave may cause some parts to be scalding hot while others may remain cold – this can easily cause spoilage. Instead, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated thoroughly.

Sixthly, let your casserole rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. Hastening this step may cause excess liquid in the sauce which can ruin its consistency.

Lastly, do not be afraid to experiment with substitutions or variations listed in this recipe article; who knows – creativity might result in a new family favorite recipe!

Follow these helpful tips and perfect thy turkey tetrazzini every time thou dost cook it!

FAQ

Hear me now, good reader, for here are common curiosities of culinary consequence concerning this Tetrazzini southern recipe. Many have found joy and satiety in its richness and flavor, but some may have queries that simmer in their minds like a pot of soup. Therefore, let us delve into the Frequently Asked Questions about this dish to enlighten thee on all that thou dost desire to know.

What is the difference between Alfredo and Tetrazzini?

When it comes to pasta dishes, there are two popular options known as Tetrazzini and Alfredo. Alfredo is a combination of ingredients cooked in a sauce made from butter and Parmesan cheese. Tetrazzini, on the other hand, is a baked pasta casserole consisting of a cream-based sauce with mushrooms and chicken or other meat.

What is the difference between Tetrazzini and spaghetti?

You may be wondering about the distinction between Chicken Tetrazzini and Chicken Spaghetti. While both dishes contain chicken and spaghetti, their defining factor lies in the sauce that accompanies them. Chicken Spaghetti usually features a tangy tomato-based sauce, while Chicken Tetrazzini is characterized by a rich, creamy white sauce that commonly includes mushrooms or other vegetables.

What is Tetrazzini sauce made of?

To create a flavourful Tetrazzini sauce that will elevate any dish, we start with a classic béchamel base. While a simple béchamel calls for butter, flour, and milk, we take it to the next level by incorporating chicken stock for a boost of taste, cream for added luxury, and cheese to make it even more irresistible.

What is turkey Tetrazzini made of?

Looking for a way to use up that leftover turkey? Turkey Tetrazzini is the perfect dish! This comforting pasta casserole is a crowd-pleaser, made with spaghetti noodles and chunks of turkey in a creamy mushroom and cheese sauce. With its savory and delicious taste, it’s a great meal option for any weeknight dinner, and you’re sure to have the whole family asking for seconds!

Bottom Line

In conclusion, this turkey tetrazzini recipe from Southern Living is sure to win over the hearts (and taste buds) of your loved ones. With its creamy Alfredo sauce, succulent cooked turkey, and tender spaghetti noodles, this casserole is comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey or simply want to try a new Southern-style pasta dish, this tetrazzini recipe will not disappoint.

So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and get cooking! With its delicious flavors and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is the perfect way to bring the whole family together for a meal they’ll never forget. And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t be afraid to experiment with different substitutions and variations.

From cheesy chicken tetrazzini to old-fashioned turkey tetrazzini, the possibilities are endless. So go ahead, channel your inner chef, and make this delicious pasta casserole your own. Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you for it!

Recommended Recipes Just For You

None found

Delicious Turkey Tetrazzini: An Easy Recipe for Your Dinner