Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe: The Cozy Casserole You’ll Want Every Week

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the mark like a creamy, flavorful Turkey Tetrazzini. This recipe combines tender spaghetti, savory turkey, and a rich sauce made from mushrooms, garlic, and cream of mushroom soup. Every bite is loaded with satisfying flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds delighted. Whether you’re looking for a way to use leftover turkey or craving a hearty, cheesy casserole, this dish will quickly become a go-to in your household.

Photo byLloyd Griffith

I first discovered Turkey Tetrazzini when searching for a crowd-pleasing dish that could transform leftover turkey into something special. It’s been a family favorite ever since. Trust me when I say you’ll be coming back to this creamy, cheesy pasta bake time and again.

Be sure to follow me for more delicious recipes like this one. Credit for this amazing dish goes to Insanely Good Recipes, where I found the inspiration.

Origins and Fun Facts About Turkey Tetrazzini

Turkey Tetrazzini is an American dish, traditionally made with turkey or chicken, cream sauce, and pasta. It was named after Italian opera star Luisa Tetrazzini, but its creation is often attributed to chefs in San Francisco. While the exact origins are debated, one thing is certain: this is a dish that brings comfort to the table. It’s perfect for those post-holiday moments when you’re wondering how to reinvent your turkey leftovers.

The Recipe: How to Make Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini

This recipe is super easy to follow, so even if you’re not an experienced cook, you’ll have no trouble whipping up a delicious, satisfying meal. Here’s everything you need to know to make it yourself:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 pound mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 cups chopped cooked turkey
• 2 (10.5 ounce) cans cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup peas, optional
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, optional
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, optional
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
   Boil the spaghetti according to the package directions, but stop cooking 2 minutes before al dente. Drain and set the pasta aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In a large skillet, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened. Add the mushrooms and cook for another 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until their moisture evaporates. Finally, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Mix in the Turkey and Sauce:
   Add the chopped turkey, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well, then season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re adding peas, mix them in at this stage.
5. Combine and Bake:
   Toss the cooked spaghetti with the turkey mixture until well coated. Transfer everything into the greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
6. Bake and Serve:
   Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the cheese is golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to settle.

Pro Tips:

• Adjust the seasoning as needed, especially if your cream of mushroom soup is particularly salty.
• For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
• If you’re looking to balance the rich, creamy flavors, serve this dish with a light garden salad, roasted veggies, or warm garlic bread.

Variations and Dietary Adjustments:

If you’re looking to make this dish more versatile, here are a few adjustments:

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the turkey for a mix of hearty vegetables like spinach and zucchini.
• Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles (zoodles) instead of spaghetti for a lighter, low-carb twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta, and ensure your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free as well.

This Turkey Tetrazzini recipe is a perfect way to bring family and friends together over a meal that’s rich, hearty, and full of flavor.

Final Thoughts:

I hope you enjoyed learning how to make this classic, comforting Turkey Tetrazzini. If you try the recipe, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. And don’t forget to follow me for more easy and delicious recipes like this one! Share this recipe with your friends and family—it's sure to be a hit!