If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that transforms simple leftovers into something spectacular, this Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender shredded turkey mingling with tender spaghetti, a creamy savory sauce studded with mushrooms and fresh herbs, all topped with a golden, crispy cracker and Parmesan crust. It’s the perfect way to bring warmth and indulgence to your table, ideal for family dinners or holiday gatherings. The best part? This Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe brings together humble ingredients into a dish that feels truly special and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish unforgettable. From the rich creaminess of butter and half & half to the earthiness of mushrooms and aromatic herbs, every element contributes something unique.
- 1 pound spaghetti noodles: Provides a classic pasta base that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Adds richness and helps create a crispy topping.
- ½ cup chopped white onion: Offers a subtle sweetness that enhances the savory elements.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a warm, aromatic depth to the dish.
- 8 ounces sliced baby bella mushrooms: Adds earthy flavor and a tender bite.
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped: Infuses a gentle herbal complexity.
- ½ teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped: Gives a fragrant piney note that brightens the sauce.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to the perfect creamy consistency.
- 2 ½ cups chicken stock: Provides savory depth and rounds out the sauce flavor.
- 1 cup half & half: Creates a luxuriously creamy texture without being too heavy.
- ½ cup sour cream: Adds tang and silkiness to the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle heat to balance the richness.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided: One part melts into the sauce and the other crisps up on top for a cheesy finish.
- 4 cups shredded cooked turkey: The star protein that makes this dish hearty and satisfying.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Adds a pop of color and a sweet burst in every bite.
- 1 cup crushed butter crackers: Creates the irresistible crunchy topping everyone loves.
How to Make Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. While the oven heats, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente, drain well, and set aside. This simple prep sets a great foundation for the layers to come.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a large skillet with deep sides, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat so it warms gently without browning. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent and sweet, about 5 minutes — this step builds a savory base. Then throw in the minced garlic, sliced mushrooms, thyme, and rosemary. Stir occasionally while the mushrooms soften, about 5 minutes, letting those earthy flavors blend beautifully.
Step 3: Make Sauce
Sprinkle the flour evenly over your softened vegetables, stirring constantly for 2 minutes. This cooking step helps get rid of any raw flour taste while setting the stage for your creamy sauce. Slowly whisk in the chicken stock to avoid lumps, then add the half & half, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens into a luscious, velvety consistency. This rich sauce is what brings everything together.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Off the heat, stir in the sour cream along with salt, pepper, and half of the Parmesan cheese — this adds tang and cheesy depth. Now fold in the shredded turkey and frozen peas for a colorful, protein-packed filling that balances creaminess with a fresh burst of sweetness from the peas.
Step 5: Add Pasta
Toss the cooked spaghetti into the thick sauce, making sure each noodle is coated lovingly. This step ensures every bite delivers that signature creamy, comforting texture we all crave in a Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish for the grand finale. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and combine with crushed crackers and the rest of the Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this golden mixture evenly on top for an irresistible crunchy layer. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and beautifully golden brown on top.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes — this helps it set and makes serving easier. Then scoop generous portions onto plates, ready to impress anyone lucky enough to dig in.
How to Serve Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few grates of Parmesan cheese can brighten and elevate the presentation. Fresh herbs add a lively pop of green, balancing the rich creaminess of the dish perfectly.
Side Dishes
This comforting casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette or roasted vegetables to add a fresh, earthy contrast. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are perfect for mopping up every last bit of that delectable sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning holiday table centerpiece, serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with a pinch of extra cracker crumb and Parmesan for a personal touch. Alternatively, layer the casserole with spinach or add different mushrooms for a twist that feels fresh yet familiar.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making leftovers just as delicious as freshly baked.
Freezing
You can freeze the entire assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly with foil and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat portions in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly again, which helps maintain the crispy topping. Microwaving works too, but you might lose some of that delightful crunch.
FAQs
Can I use leftover turkey for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe is a fantastic way to give leftover turkey new life, turning it into a creamy, comforting meal your family will love.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a similar tang and creaminess.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free spaghetti noodles, a gluten-free flour blend, and gluten-free crackers to keep all the delicious layers safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Is there a way to add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to stir in cooked spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for an extra veggie boost and more vibrant color.
Can I prepare the sauce portion ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and refrigerate it, then combine with pasta and turkey and bake when ready. Just warm the sauce slightly before mixing to keep it smooth.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about a well-made Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. It turns simple ingredients into a dish full of comforting textures and cozy flavors, perfect for gathering around the table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try soon — it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy turkey!
Print
Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Turkey Tetrazzini recipe is a creamy, comforting casserole featuring tender turkey, spaghetti, mushrooms, and peas in a rich Parmesan sauce, baked to golden perfection with a crispy cracker topping. Perfect for using up leftover turkey or as a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound spaghetti noodles
Sauce and Filling
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- ½ cup chopped white onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces sliced baby bella mushrooms
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ cups chicken stock
- 1 cup half & half
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 4 cups shredded cooked turkey
- 1 cup frozen peas
Topping
- 1 cup crushed butter crackers
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large, deep skillet, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic, sliced baby bella mushrooms, fresh thyme, and rosemary. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms soften, approximately 5 more minutes.
- Make Sauce: Sprinkle all-purpose flour evenly over the vegetables and stir well to coat everything. Cook this mixture for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Slowly whisk in the chicken stock followed by the half & half, stirring continuously to prevent any lumps. Allow the sauce to come to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 3 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir the sour cream into the sauce along with salt, black pepper, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Add the shredded cooked turkey and frozen peas to the mixture, stirring gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add Pasta: Toss the cooked spaghetti noodles into the sauce, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the creamy mixture.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared greased baking dish. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and in a small bowl, combine this melted butter with crushed butter crackers and the remaining Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this crunchy topping evenly over the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to let the sauce set for easier portioning and to enhance flavors.
Notes
- Use leftover turkey or roast a fresh turkey breast for this recipe.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted with ½ teaspoon dried thyme and rosemary if needed.
- Butter crackers can be replaced with breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers for topping.
- For a lighter version, substitute half & half with whole milk and use low-fat sour cream.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
