Quick & Creamy: Easy Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe the Whole Family Will Love
Looking for a comforting, creamy dish that’s easy to whip up and perfect for using leftover turkey? This easy Turkey Tetrazzini recipe is the answer! With a rich, cheesy sauce and tender pasta, it’s a meal the whole family will devour. Plus, it’s quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Let’s get started!
1. Gather Your Ingredients
Before you begin, gather everything you’ll need for this delicious dish. Here’s a quick list of ingredients:
- 3 cups of cooked turkey (shredded or diced)
- 12 oz of spaghetti or other pasta
- 1 cup of sliced mushrooms
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (Parmesan or mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
2. Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling the pasta according to the package instructions. You want it al dente since it will cook more in the oven. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce. This will be the base of your hearty Turkey Tetrazzini.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and sliced mushrooms. Cook until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes. This step will give your Tetrazzini a flavorful, earthy base.
4. Add the Turkey
Once the vegetables are softened, add the cooked turkey to the skillet. Stir everything together and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. This is a great way to use up leftover turkey, giving it new life in a creamy, cozy dish!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce
Now, it’s time to create that luscious, creamy sauce. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Next, add the heavy cream and stir well. Let the sauce cook for 5-7 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly. This is what will make your Tetrazzini irresistibly creamy.
6. Add the Cheese
To enhance the creaminess, stir in ½ cup of shredded Parmesan or mozzarella cheese. As the cheese melts, it will make the sauce even richer and smoother. You’ll love how the cheesy goodness clings to the pasta and turkey!
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy, cheesy sauce. The combination of tender pasta, savory turkey, and rich sauce is pure comfort in every bite.
8. Transfer to a Baking Dish
Now, pour the turkey and pasta mixture into a large greased baking dish. Spreading it evenly will ensure that every scoop has a good balance of ingredients. This step prepares the dish for its final bake, where it will turn golden and bubbly.
9. Top with Extra Cheese
For an extra cheesy, golden topping, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of the dish. You can even add a bit of breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture if desired. This cheesy layer will bake into a golden, melty crust that everyone will love.
10. Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the Turkey Tetrazzini for 20-25 minutes. The top should be golden and bubbly, with the edges crisping up slightly. The baking process not only heats everything through but also melds all the flavors beautifully.
11. Garnish and Serve
Once your Turkey Tetrazzini is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and a bit of freshness. Serve it straight from the baking dish and watch as your family digs into this creamy, comforting meal.
Conclusion
This Quick & Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini is the ultimate family-friendly comfort dish. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for using up leftover turkey. With tender pasta, savory turkey, and a cheesy, creamy sauce, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy the smiles around the table as your family asks for seconds!
