This Easy Turkey Tetrazzini is a creamy, comforting dish packed with tender turkey and spaghetti, all baked to golden perfection. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner!
You know those nights when you want something warm and filling? This dish always hits the spot! I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: The base of this dish. You can swap it for any pasta you like, such as penne or fusilli, which hold the sauce well.
Turkey: Leftover turkey works best here. If you’re short on turkey, rotisserie chicken or even canned chicken is a great alternative!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. If you’re avoiding canned soups, you can make a quick homemade version with sautéed mushrooms, cream, and broth.
Sour Cream & Half-and-Half: Both add richness, but you could use Greek yogurt for a lighter take. Just be sure to use plain yogurt to avoid a tangy flavor.
Cheese: I love mozzarella for its meltiness. You can go for cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor. Parmesan adds a nice touch too!
How Do I Cook the Mushrooms Properly?
Cooking mushrooms the right way brings out their flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with medium heat to prevent burning.
- Add mushrooms in a single layer. If they’re crowded, they’ll steam instead of brown.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and moisture evaporates.
The goal is to get them nice and golden to enhance the dish!
What’s the Best Way to Assemble and Bake the Dish?
Assembling your Tetrazzini properly ensures even flavor and texture:
- Toss the cooked pasta with the turkey mixture until everything is coated.
- Spread it evenly in the baking dish, making sure it’s not too packed.
- Top it off with cheese for a delicious, gooey layer and bake until bubbly!
Letting it bake uncovered helps the cheese brown nicely—yum!
How to Make Easy Turkey Tetrazzini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Main Dish:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or cubed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup French fried onions (optional topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, butter a 9×13 inch baking dish generously to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
3. Sauté the Onion and Mushrooms:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, toss in the sliced mushrooms and let them cook for another 5 minutes until they’re tender and most of their moisture has evaporated.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey, the sautéed onion and mushroom mixture, the condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream (or half-and-half), chicken broth, garlic powder, dried thyme (if using), and a little salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well mixed.
5. Mix in the Spaghetti:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the turkey mixture in the bowl. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy turkey mixture.
6. Transfer to the Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese evenly over the top to create a delicious cheesy layer.
7. Bake It:
Bake the dish uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You want it to be bubbly and for the cheese to melt beautifully.
8. Add the Final Touches:
Once it’s out of the oven, sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese and the French fried onions if you’re using them for a nice crispy finish.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color, and serve this comforting dish hot. Enjoy your delicious Easy Turkey Tetrazzini!
This recipe is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also a wonderful way to cozy up with your family over dinner! Enjoy!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey for This Dish?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey is perfect for this recipe. Just shred or cube it before adding it to the mixture, making this a great way to use up holiday leftovers!
What Can I Substitute for Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can make a quick substitute by combining sautéed mushrooms, equal parts cream and broth, and a little flour to thicken. This gives you a fresher flavor without the canned option!
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the turkey with sautéed vegetables like zucchini or spinach and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a vegetarian version if available.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy!