Turkey Tetrazzini

The first time I made Turkey Tetrazzini, it was a chilly fall evening, and the scent of roasted turkey filled the air. I had an abundance of leftover turkey from Thanksgiving, and I wanted to create something comforting yet exciting. As I gathered the ingredients, I was reminded of the warmth of family gatherings, laughter, and shared meals around the table. This dish has a lovely history, tracing back to the Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini, who inspired this creamy, savory pasta dish. The blend of turkey, spaghetti, and a rich sauce transforms simple ingredients into a delightful meal that warms the soul.

What You’ll Need for Turkey Tetrazzini

When it comes to crafting Turkey Tetrazzini, the selection of ingredients is crucial to achieving that comforting flavor profile. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building the dish’s creamy and savory base. The star players, of course, are the turkey and spaghetti, but the supporting cast of herbs, broth, and cream elevate this dish to something truly special.

• 2½ teaspoons salt – Essential for seasoning the pasta and bringing out the flavors in the dish.
• 12 ounces spaghetti – The perfect pasta choice for this creamy sauce, offering a satisfying bite.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness to the sauce and enhances the overall flavor.
• 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Used to create a roux, which thickens the sauce beautifully.
• 3½ cups turkey stock or low-sodium chicken broth – The base of the sauce, providing depth and flavor.
• ¾ cup heavy cream – This makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
• 1 tablespoon freshly chopped thyme – Adds an aromatic touch to the dish.
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary – Provides a beautiful herbal note.
• ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg – A pinch of this spice creates warmth in the dish.
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Enhances the flavors without overpowering.
• 3½ cups ½ inch diced roast turkey – The highlight of the dish, adding protein and texture.
• 10 ounces frozen peas – Brightens up the dish with color and sweetness.
• ½ cup dried breadcrumbs or panko – Adds a crispy topping for contrast in texture.
• ½ cup (2 ounces) freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Brings a sharp, cheesy flavor that complements the creaminess.

Recipe Directions for Turkey Tetrazzini

Making Turkey Tetrazzini is not only simple; it’s also a rewarding experience. Follow these steps, and you’ll create a dish that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the cooking process!

1. Begin by filling a large stockpot three-quarters full of water. Cover it and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add 2 teaspoons of salt and the spaghetti. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, which typically takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside for now.
2. Next, preheat your oven to 375°F. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by buttering it with a bit of the unsalted butter. This step helps prevent sticking and adds flavor to the dish.
3. In a medium sauté pan or skillet, melt the remaining unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly until it becomes faintly colored, about 2 minutes. This mixture is called a roux and is vital for thickening the sauce.
4. Gradually whisk in the turkey stock or low-sodium chicken broth. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. The consistency should be creamy and velvety.
5. Once thickened, whisk in the heavy cream. After incorporating the cream, add the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt, minced fresh rosemary, freshly chopped thyme, freshly grated nutmeg, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir in the diced roast turkey and frozen peas, heating everything through. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasonings according to your preference before removing it from the heat.
6. Now, it’s time to assemble the dish. Take the cooked spaghetti and place it in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the turkey mixture evenly over the pasta, ensuring every piece of spaghetti is coated with that delicious sauce.
7. In a small bowl, combine the dried breadcrumbs and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the assembled dish. This will create a wonderfully crispy topping when baked.
8. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. You’ll know it’s done when you see the edges bubbling and the top is beautifully browned.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This rest period allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
10. Finally, dish out generous portions of your Turkey Tetrazzini and enjoy it with your loved ones. It’s truly a heartwarming meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Customization Ideas

There are so many ways to customize your Turkey Tetrazzini to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some fun ideas to get you started!

• Add Different Proteins: While turkey is traditional, you can use shredded chicken or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian twist.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Try adding mozzarella for a gooey texture or smoked gouda for a deeper flavor.
• Herb Infusions: Customize the dish further by incorporating herbs like basil or oregano for a fresh twist.
• Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the turkey mixture.
• Vegan Alternatives: Substitute the butter with a vegan alternative, use plant-based cream, and replace the turkey with your favorite meat substitute.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve the Turkey Tetrazzini with a light salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
• Leftover Makeover: Use leftover roasted vegetables from your dinner to add flavor and nutrients.

What Goes Well With This Turkey Tetrazzini

Serving Turkey Tetrazzini can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some fantastic pairing ideas:

• Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread is a classic side. It’s perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables, such as green beans or Brussels sprouts, add color and nutrients to your meal.
• Comforting Soups: Pair it with a light soup, like a minestrone or creamy tomato soup, for a complete dining experience.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or even potlucks. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
• Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in the fridge, and don’t forget to reheat it in the oven for the best texture!
• Pairing with Wine: If you enjoy wine, a crisp white like Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied red can complement this dish wonderfully.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Turkey Tetrazzini is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. The combination of creamy sauce, tender turkey, and perfectly cooked pasta makes it a standout dish any time of the year. I encourage you to give it a try; it’s a delightful way to bring loved ones together over a comforting meal.

Turkey Tetrazzini

The ultimate comfort food, Turkey Tetrazzini combines tender turkey, creamy sauce, and spaghetti for a delightful weeknight dinner. This easy-to-make dish will satisfy your cravings and make you feel right at home. Perfect for using up leftovers from Thanksgiving!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 40 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 540

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2½ teaspoons salt
• 12 ounces spaghetti
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3½ cups turkey stock or low-sodium chicken broth
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon freshly chopped thyme
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary
• ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• to taste freshly ground black pepper
• 3½ cups ½ inch diced roast turkey
• 10 ounces frozen peas
• ½ cup dried breadcrumbs or panko
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Equipment

• Oven
• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk
• Grater
• Cutting Board
• Baking Sheet
• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Frying Pan
• Large Pot

Method

 

1. Fill a large stockpot ¾ full of water, cover, and bring to a boil. Add 2 teaspoons of the salt and the spaghetti and cook until al dente, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Butter a 9×13-inch baking pan.
3. In a medium sauté pan or skillet, melt the butter over a medium heat. Add the flour and cook, stirring, until faintly colored, about 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the stock or broth until the sauce is smooth and thickened, 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Whisk in the cream, then add the remaining ½ teaspoon salt, the rosemary, thyme, nutmeg, and pepper. Stir in the turkey and peas and heat through. Taste and adjust the seasonings, then remove from the heat.
5. Put pasta in the prepared dish and spoon the turkey mixture over it.
6. In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and the Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the sauce.

Notes

• Make ahead: Let cool completely, cover, and refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.
• To reheat: If frozen, let thaw in refrigerator. Reheat in a preheated 350 degree oven until heated through.

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Meet Maya Warren

Our main recipe developer and resident forager. My passion is cooking with what the season gives us, whether it’s wild mushrooms from the woods or fresh berries from the garden. I work with Chloe to create our main dishes and with Tessa on new flavor ideas for her bakes. I love the challenge of turning a fresh, raw ingredient into something magical.