This classic turkey tetrazzini recipe is perfect for those leftover turkey days. A delightful pasta dish with a creamy sauce, mushrooms, and melted cheese that everyone will love. Ideal for an easy weeknight dinner or even a casual gathering.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry items. However, you may need to pick up some fresh items such as mushrooms, parsley, and turkey (if you don't have any leftovers). Half and half, a blend of equal parts whole milk and light cream, and cream cheese are also key components for the creamy sauce. If unavailable, they can usually be found in the dairy section at your local supermarket.
Ingredients for Classic Turkey Tetrazzini
Spaghetti: A basic pasta type, serves as the base of the dish.
Butter: Used to sauté the onions, garlic, and mushrooms.
Onion and Garlic: Adds a depth of flavor.
Mushrooms: Provides a meaty texture.
Flour: Helps in thickening the sauce.
Chicken broth: Adds flavor and liquid for the sauce.
Cream cheese: Gives a rich, creamy texture to the sauce.
Half and Half: Makes the sauce creamy but not overly rich.
Parsley and Italian seasoning: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Turkey: Protein that can be leftover or freshly cooked.
Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese: Adds a gooey and cheesy element to the dish.
One reader, Joycelin Coker says:
This classic turkey tetrazzini recipe is a game-changer! The creamy sauce and perfectly cooked spaghetti create a delightful blend of flavors. The addition of turkey makes it a hearty and satisfying meal. It's a definite crowd-pleaser and a go-to comfort food for my family. Highly recommended!
Techniques Required for Making Classic Turkey Tetrazzini
How to cook spaghetti to al dente: Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until it is tender but still firm to the bite. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, but it's best to follow the package instructions for the specific type of spaghetti you are using.
How to make a roux: Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes until the mixture is golden and has a nutty aroma. This creates a base for the sauce and helps to thicken it.
How to melt cream cheese into a sauce: After adding the cream cheese to the sauce, stir continuously over low heat until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
How to bake tetrazzini: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the tetrazzini covered for the first 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then uncover and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the dish is hot and bubbly and the cheese is golden brown on top.
How To Make Turkey Tetrazzini
This Italian turkey tetrazzini is coated in a creamy sauce for a richer meal! Whip this mouthwatering pasta meal up in just one hour.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 12ozdry spaghetti
- 3tbspbutter
- 1onion,diced
- 3garlic cloves,minced
- ¾lbsmushrooms,sliced
- 3tbspflour
- 2¼cupschicken broth,reduced sodium
- 8ozcream cheese,spreadable, garlic flavor
- 1⅓cupshalf and half,or light cream
- salt and pepper,to taste
- 1tbspparsley,fresh
- 1tspItalian seasoning
- 2cupsturkey,chopped
- 2cupsmozzarella cheese,divided
- ¼cupparmesan cheese
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
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Cook the spaghetti to al dente according to package directions.
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Cook the butter, onions and garlic over medium heat until softened.
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Add mushrooms, then cook for an additional 3 minutes.
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Stir in flour, then cook for 1 minute.
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Add the broth and cream all at once, then cook until thick and bubbly. Let boil for 1 minute.
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Stir in the cream cheese until melted.
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Add the parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
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Combine the spaghetti, turkey, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and sauce.
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Pour the pasta mix into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan, then top with remaining mozzarella.
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Cover and bake for 20 minutes.
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Sprinkle with parmesan, then bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes uncovered until hot and bubbly.
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Serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 675.61kcal
- Fat: 39.54g
- Saturated Fat: 22.86g
- Trans Fat: 0.20g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10.94g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.27g
- Carbohydrates: 45.06g
- Fiber: 2.48g
- Sugar: 7.10g
- Protein: 35.43g
- Cholesterol: 145.76mg
- Sodium: 819.75mg
- Calcium: 529.86mg
- Potassium: 573.29mg
- Iron: 1.89mg
- Vitamin A: 326.06µg
- Vitamin C: 3.59mg
Essential Technique Tip for Classic Turkey Tetrazzini
When preparing your turkey tetrazzini, it's important to cook your spaghetti to al dente. This means the pasta should still have a slight bite to it and not be overly soft. The reason for this is that the pasta will continue to cook in the oven when you bake the dish. If the pasta is already fully cooked before it goes into the oven, it can become mushy and lose its texture. So, remember to remove your pasta from the heat a minute or two earlier than the package instructions indicate for the best results.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Turkey Tetrazzini
Prep ahead: Prepare ingredients in advance, such as chopping vegetables or cooking the turkey, to save time during the actual cooking process.
One-pot cooking: Consider using a large skillet or pot to cook the entire dish in one go, minimizing the number of dishes to clean afterward.
Leftover makeover: Utilize leftover cooked turkey from a previous meal to cut down on preparation time.
Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen organized to easily locate ingredients and utensils, streamlining the cooking process.
Efficient multitasking: Plan and execute tasks simultaneously, such as boiling water for the spaghetti while preparing the sauce, to expedite the cooking process.
Utilize kitchen tools: Use kitchen gadgets like a food processor or mandoline to quickly chop vegetables or shred turkey, saving time and effort.
Substitute Ingredients For Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe
dry spaghetti - Substitute with fettuccine noodles: Fettuccine noodles have a similar texture and shape to spaghetti and will work well in this recipe.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter and will add a different flavor profile to the dish.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a subtle twist to the dish.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh garlic cloves, providing a similar flavor.
mushrooms - Substitute with chopped spinach: Chopped spinach can add a different texture and flavor to the dish while providing a boost of nutrients.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a gluten-free alternative to flour for thickening the sauce.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian alternative to chicken broth while still providing a flavorful base for the dish.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter and tangier alternative to cream cheese, adding a different dimension to the dish.
half and half - Substitute with whole milk: Whole milk can be used as a substitute for half and half, providing a creamy texture to the dish.
parsley - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil can add a different herbaceous flavor to the dish, complementing the other ingredients.
Italian seasoning - Substitute with herbs de Provence: Herbs de Provence can provide a unique blend of herbs, adding a different flavor profile to the dish.
turkey - Substitute with chicken: Chicken can be used as an alternative to turkey, providing a similar protein source for the dish.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese can be used as a substitute for mozzarella, adding a different flavor and meltiness to the dish.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino Romano cheese: Pecorino Romano cheese can be used as a substitute for parmesan, providing a similar salty and nutty flavor to the dish.
Best Way to Present Turkey Tetrazzini
Elevate the plating: When presenting the classic turkey tetrazzini, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use clean lines and carefully arrange the dish to showcase the layers and textures.
Incorporate garnishes: Add a touch of sophistication by incorporating fresh herbs such as parsley or basil as a garnish. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall aesthetic of the dish.
Opt for fine dining plating: Consider using fine dining plating techniques to create a visually stunning presentation. Utilize negative space on the plate to draw attention to the main components of the dish.
Emphasize balance and symmetry: Aim for a balanced and symmetrical arrangement of the turkey tetrazzini on the plate. Pay attention to the placement of each element to create a harmonious visual composition.
Highlight the textures: Showcase the contrasting textures of the dish by layering the turkey tetrazzini in a way that highlights the creamy sauce, tender turkey, and al dente spaghetti.
Use high-quality serving ware: Select elegant and refined serving ware that complements the dish. Opt for porcelain plates or shallow bowls to present the turkey tetrazzini with finesse.
Consider portion control: Present the turkey tetrazzini in smaller, well-proportioned servings to emphasize quality over quantity. This approach aligns with the refined dining experience expected in a Michelin-starred setting.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the precision of each component's placement on the plate, ensuring that every element is meticulously arranged to create a visually stunning presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Classic Turkey Tetrazzini
- Chef's knife: A versatile tool used for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients with precision.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Large pot: Used for boiling the spaghetti and preparing the sauce.
- Skillet: Ideal for cooking the onions, garlic, and mushrooms.
- Whisk: Essential for stirring and combining the sauce ingredients.
- Baking dish: Used for baking the turkey tetrazzini in the oven.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring ingredients.
- Oven: Used for baking the turkey tetrazzini to perfection.
Storing and Freezing Classic Turkey Tetrazzini
Allow the turkey tetrazzini to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dish soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled tetrazzini to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For freezing, portion the cooled tetrazzini into individual servings or freeze the entire dish. Wrap the portions or dish tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label the package with the date and contents.
Frozen turkey tetrazzini will maintain its best quality for up to 2-3 months. To extend its shelf life further, consider using a vacuum sealer to remove excess air before freezing.
To reheat refrigerated tetrazzini, place the desired portion in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to crisp up the top, if desired.
For frozen tetrazzini, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. If reheating from frozen, increase the baking time to 45-60 minutes, or until the dish is heated through and bubbly. Keep the dish covered with foil for most of the reheating time to prevent drying out.
If the reheated tetrazzini appears dry, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to help moisten the dish and restore its creamy texture.
How To Reheat Turkey Tetrazzini Leftovers
To reheat leftover classic turkey tetrazzini in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
For a quicker reheating method, use the microwave. Place a single serving of the tetrazzini on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Stir the dish halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you have a large amount of leftover tetrazzini, consider reheating it on the stovetop. Transfer the dish to a large skillet or saucepan and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or milk to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out.
For a crispy top, after reheating the tetrazzini in the oven or microwave, place it under the broiler for a minute or two. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
To maintain the best texture, avoid reheating the classic turkey tetrazzini multiple times. Portion out the amount you plan to eat and reheat only what you need. Refrigerate any remaining leftovers promptly.
Random Fact About Classic Turkey Tetrazzini
Turkey tetrazzini is a classic American dish that was named after the Italian opera star, Luisa Tetrazzini. She was known for her love of pasta, and this dish was created in her honor. It is a delicious way to use up leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners, and it's a comforting and hearty meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Is Making Turkey Tetrazzini at Home Cost-Effective?
This classic turkey tetrazzini recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like spaghetti, mushrooms, and leftover turkey makes it budget-friendly. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $15-20. Considering the hearty portions and delicious flavors, this dish is a solid 9 out of 10. It's a great way to utilize leftover turkey and create a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
Is Classic Turkey Tetrazzini Healthy or Unhealthy?
The classic turkey tetrazzini recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to its high content of saturated fats and simple carbohydrates. The generous use of butter, cream cheese, and half-and-half contributes to the dish's richness but also increases its caloric value and saturated fat content. Additionally, the recipe relies heavily on spaghetti, which is a refined carbohydrate that can cause blood sugar spikes and provide fewer nutrients compared to whole-grain alternatives.
However, the recipe does include some nutritious elements, such as the use of turkey, which is a lean protein source, and the incorporation of mushrooms and onions, which offer various vitamins and minerals. The parsley and Italian seasoning also add some antioxidants and flavor to the dish without increasing its calorie count.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Swap the regular spaghetti for whole-grain or legume-based pasta to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of energy
- Reduce the amount of butter, cream cheese, and half-and-half, or replace them with lighter alternatives like Greek yogurt or low-fat milk
- Increase the proportion of vegetables in the dish by adding more mushrooms, onions, or other nutrient-dense options like spinach or bell peppers
- Use a reduced-fat mozzarella cheese and limit the amount of Parmesan cheese to decrease the overall fat content
- Serve the tetrazzini with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal and add more vitamins and minerals
Editor's Thoughts on This Classic Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe
This classic turkey tetrazzini recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The creamy sauce, tender turkey, and perfectly cooked spaghetti come together to create a comforting and satisfying dish. The addition of mushrooms adds a lovely earthy note, while the blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses provides a rich and gooey topping. The recipe's straightforward instructions make it accessible for home cooks, and the end result is sure to please a crowd. It's a timeless and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering.
Enhance Your Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe:
This classic turkey tetrazzini recipe is a timeless favorite, guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for comfort food. With a rich and creamy sauce made from scratch using chicken broth, cream cheese, and half and half, this dish is bursting with flavor. The addition of mushrooms and onions adds depth, while the combination of mozzarella and parmesan cheese creates a gooey, irresistible topping. The inclusion of spaghetti and leftover turkey makes it a practical and delicious way to repurpose ingredients. Trust this recipe to deliver a hearty and satisfying meal every time.
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