Why Make This Turkey Tetrazzini?
Turkey Tetrazzini is one of those dishes that I just love! It is easy to make ahead to serve for a crowd, and also a perfectly delicious way to use up some of that leftover turkey from the holidays! Chopped turkey tossed with spaghetti noodles and a creamy, dreamy sauce, is all topped with parmesan cheese, then baked in the oven until bubbly and golden. This is an easy and delicious casserole recipe that has the best cheesy sauce you’ll ever taste.
What Is Tetrazzini?
Despite being a baked pasta dish with an Italian name, it is most definitely not Italian! Tetrazzini is an American dish which usually includes a non-red meat (typically chicken, turkey or seafood) and a white sauce over pasta noodles. Consider it a pasta/casserole type dish or as I like to refer to it “mac and cheese on steroids“. The name originates from Italian opera star Luisa Tetrazzini, and was invented in the early 1900’s at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco, California – where Tetrazzini made her American opera debut! Imagine having an entire dish named after you? I wish!
Ingredient Notes
Pasta – Usually tetrazzini is made with spaghetti, but other pastas you can use are fettuccine, linguine or even egg noodles. Turkey – Cooked and chopped. This recipe is great because this is the best way to use leftover turkey or chicken. Cream Cheese – This is my secret to make this cheese sauce extra creamy and extra cheesy, a block of cream cheese is a must here. Liquids – I love to combine some chicken broth and milk. Of course if you wanted an even richer sauce, you can go ahead and use half and half or heavy cream, though I really don’t think it’s necessary, this sauce is rich enough as it is. Garlic and Onion – Two ingredients that are essential to flavor our sauce. Italian Seasoning – The perfect blend of spices for this dish and to add that nice Italian flavor. Check out my homemade Italian seasoning recipe to make your own at home! Parmesan Cheese – This is probably the most important ingredient here, at least in my opinion. You’ll want lots of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Other cheeses you can use are cheddar, jack or colby.
How To Make Turkey Tetrazzini
Expert Tips
Tetrazzini For Freezer Meals
This turkey tetrazzini is ideal for freezer meal. Prepare it as instructed up to and including step 5 then cover it tightly with a layer of foil and store in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge the night before and pop it in the oven when it is time to make dinner!
Leftovers
Store leftovers covered in foil, or transferred to an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Freezing
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
More Delicious Recipes To Try:
Skillet White Chicken Lasagna Baked Ziti Chicken Pasta Casserole Chicken Alfredo Bake Baked Spaghetti Casserole Turkey Panini Turkey Noodle Casserole
