Quick and Easy Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe
Craving a comforting meal that’s sure to impress your taste buds? Look no further than this Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini recipe. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or entertaining friends, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With tender turkey, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a rich and creamy sauce, all topped with a cheesy breadcrumb crust, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to create this culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Prepare your shopping list with these essential ingredients for Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini:
- 1 lb spaghetti
- Salted water
- ¼ cup salted butter
- 1 TBS minced garlic
- 1 cup onion finely chopped
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk or half and half (try 1 cup whole milk, 1 cup cream)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 lb broccoli, fresh or frozen, cut into small pieces
- 2 cups leftover turkey, cubed/diced
- Topping
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create a mouthwatering Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F and lightly grease a 9×13” baking dish.
- Cook the Spaghetti: Break the spaghetti noodles in half and cook them according to the package instructions in salted water. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside in a large bowl, but do not rinse.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large stockpot, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is soft (about 4 minutes). Add the flour, sea salt, and pepper, whisking to combine. Cook for 30-60 seconds until the mixture starts bubbling.
- Add Broth and Milk: Pour in the chicken broth, whole milk, and Italian seasoning, whisking to combine. Allow the mixture to cook until it starts to thicken and boil.
- Cheese Please: Whisk in 1 cup of parmesan cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine with Spaghetti: Turn off the heat and add the cooked spaghetti, diced turkey, and chopped broccoli to the sauce. Gently stir to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Dish: Transfer the creamy tetrazzini mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Topping: In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, ¼ cup of parmesan cheese, and ¼ cup of breadcrumbs. Mix well.
- Add the Topping: Evenly spread the cheese and breadcrumb mixture over the top of the tetrazzini in the baking dish.
- Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the top is lightly browned and the filling is bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once out of the oven, allow the tetrazzini to cool slightly before serving. Scoop generous portions onto plates, savoring the creamy goodness and the delightful blend of flavors.
Best Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe
FAQs
Q: Can I use different pasta for this recipe? A: Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can try using fettuccine, linguine, or other pasta varieties for a unique twist.
Q: Can I substitute the turkey with chicken? A: Certainly! If you prefer chicken over turkey, feel free to use cooked and diced chicken in this recipe.
Q: Is it necessary to use both parmesan and mozzarella cheese? A: The combination of these cheeses adds depth and creaminess to the dish, but you can customize it based on your preferences.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking. Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers? A: Absolutely! Portion out the leftovers and store them in airtight containers in the freezer for a delicious meal later.
Q: Can I add extra vegetables? A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with your favorite veggies like mushrooms, peas, or carrots.
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini with this comprehensive step-by-step guide. From the savory turkey to the creamy sauce and perfectly cooked spaghetti, each bite is a delight for the senses. This dish is versatile, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, potlucks, and gatherings. Follow the instructions, customize to your taste, and enjoy a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable.
