Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole

I’m excited to share a cozy and delicious recipe that’s perfect for those chilly nights when you’re craving something warm and comforting, Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole!

This Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole is a family favorite at our house, and it’s always a hit at gatherings! 

Imagine tender turkey, creamy mushroom sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, all baked together to golden perfection.

Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe has you covered. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey from the holidays.

Let’s dive into how to make this hearty and satisfying casserole!

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Ingredients for Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole

To make this Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole, you’ll need 7 ounces of spaghetti for that perfect pasta base. Use 1/2 a 16 oz. box or use a small 7 oz. box of spaghetti.

For the creamy sauce, gather 1/4 cup of butter, 8 ounces of fresh mushrooms (sliced), and 1 small onion (chopped).

To give it a tangy kick, have 1 and a half teaspoons of lemon juice ready.

For the sauce thickener, you’ll need 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour.

Enhance the flavors with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, and a pinch of nutmeg.

The sauce comes together with 2 cups of chicken broth and 1/2 cup of half and half.

Don’t forget the star of the dish – 2 to 3 cups of cooked, cubed turkey.

Lastly, for that cheesy finish, grab 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.

Oh, and a bit more paprika for garnish!

These ingredients will come together to create a delightful and comforting casserole that’s perfect for any occasion.

Substitute Ingredients You Can Use to Make Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole

If you’re missing a few ingredients or looking to switch things up, fear not!

You can easily customize this Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole.

Instead of spaghetti, try using other pasta shapes like fettuccine or egg noodles.

If you’re out of fresh mushrooms, canned mushrooms will work just fine.

Don’t have an onion? A teaspoon of onion powder or a shallot can add a similar flavor.

For a dairy-free option, use olive oil instead of butter, and almond milk as a substitute for half and half.

Any cooked protein can stand in for turkey, like chicken or even leftover ham.

And if you prefer a different cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, feel free to swap out the Parmesan.

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility, so don’t hesitate to get creative with what you have on hand!

Steps to Make Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking this delicious casserole.

Next, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside for later.

Now, let’s prepare the mushroom mixture.

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of butter.

Add the sliced mushrooms (8 oz) and chopped onion (1 small).

Cook them until the mushrooms are tender and the onions are nice and soft, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

To add a bit of zing, stir in 1 and a half teaspoons of lemon juice and cook for another minute.

Make the Sauce for the Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole

Once the mushrooms and onions are cooked, it’s time to make the sauce.

Sprinkle 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, and a pinch of nutmeg over the mushroom mixture.

Stir everything together and cook for 1-2 minutes to get rid of any raw flour taste.

Gradually whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1/2 cup of half and half. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.

Now, add the star of the show – 2 to 3 cups of cooked, cubed turkey – to the sauce along with the cooked spaghetti.

Stir everything together until the turkey and spaghetti are nicely coated in that creamy sauce.

The final touch before baking is to add the Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s melted and mixed in with the rest of the ingredients.

Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prepare it for the casserole.

Transfer the turkey and spaghetti mixture into the baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

To give it that finishing touch, sprinkle a little more paprika on top for color and flavor.

Now, pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the sauce is nice and bubbly.

Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

This Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole is best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the oven, making it a perfect comfort food dish for any occasion!

That’s it! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole ready to impress your friends and family.

What to do with Leftover Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole

Storing and reheating the Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole is easy! Here’s how you can do it:

Refrigerator Storage:

If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely at room temperature. Then, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil or transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating:

Oven method reheating is recommended.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

If the casserole is in a baking dish, cover it with foil.

Place the covered casserole in the preheated oven for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through.

If it’s in an airtight container, transfer it to an oven-safe dish before reheating.

Microwave Method:

For a quicker reheating option, you can use the microwave.

Place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate.

Cover the plate loosely with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

Heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s heated through.

Microwaves vary, so adjust the time as needed. Be careful not to overcook, as it can dry out the dish.

Tips:

Before reheating, you may want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to the casserole to help keep it moist.

If the top starts to get too crispy during reheating, cover it with foil to prevent further browning.

What to Serve with this Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole

Turkey Tetrazzini is a rich and comforting dish, so it pairs well with sides that can complement its flavors and textures. Here are some ideas for items to serve alongside Turkey Tetrazzini.

Side Dish Ideas:

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole. You can add cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for extra flavor and texture.

Vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts work well. Roasting them with olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan can elevate their flavors.

Crusty garlic bread or soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. You can also brush the bread with garlic butter for extra flavor.

A fruit salad with a mix of fresh seasonal fruits adds a refreshing and sweet element to balance the richness of the casserole.

Slices of crusty baguette or French bread are great for scooping up the sauce. You can also serve it with a side of herbed butter or olive oil for dipping.

Fluffy white or brown rice can be a simple and neutral accompaniment to the flavorful casserole. It’s a good option if you want to stretch the meal to serve more people.

If you’re serving this dish around the holidays, a dollop of cranberry sauce can add a sweet and tart contrast that complements the savory flavors of the casserole.

Additional Tips:

Garnish the casserole with freshly chopped parsley, chives, or basil for a burst of color and freshness.

Serve extra Parmesan cheese on the side, either grated or shaved, for those who want to add more cheese to their portion.

For beverages, a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc can be a good match. If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir can also work.

Choose one or more of these sides based on your preferences and what you have on hand. The goal is to create a balanced and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy!

Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together comforting flavors and simple ingredients.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe has you covered.

With tender turkey, creamy mushroom sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, each bite is a warm hug in a casserole dish.

Feel free to customize with your favorite pasta shape or cheese, and don’t forget to pair it with some fresh greens or crusty bread.

It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey or simply indulge in a comforting meal.

If you enjoyed this recipe check out my Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole recipe!