Mushroom Turkey Tetrazzini: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Mushroom Turkey Tetrazzini: the ultimate comfort food casserole, ready to transform your leftover Thanksgiving turkey into a creamy, dreamy delight! Are you tired of the same old turkey sandwiches after the holidays? Do you crave something warm, satisfying, and utterly delicious? Then look no further! This recipe is your answer to post-holiday blues, offering a sophisticated twist on a classic family favorite.

Tetrazzini, named after the celebrated Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Legend has it that the dish was created in her honor at a San Francisco hotel. While traditionally made with chicken or seafood, this Mushroom Turkey Tetrazzini variation gives a new life to your holiday leftovers. The earthy mushrooms complement the savory turkey beautifully, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

People adore Tetrazzini for its creamy texture, comforting warmth, and ease of preparation. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy night in or a potluck gathering. The combination of tender pasta, succulent turkey, rich mushroom sauce, and a golden, bubbly topping is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey, making it both delicious and economical. Get ready to experience a culinary masterpiece that’s both elegant and easy to make!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound turkey breast, cooked and cubed
• 1 pound mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button work well)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup dry sherry (optional, but adds great flavor!)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound spaghetti or linguine
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Preparing the Mushroom Sauce:

1. First, let’s get started on the heart of our tetrazzini – the creamy mushroom sauce! In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. We want to coax out all that lovely onion flavor!
3. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Now, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released their moisture and are nicely browned, about 8-10 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the mushrooms in batches to ensure they brown properly. Browning equals flavor!
5. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This will create a roux, which will help thicken our sauce. Make sure to cook out the raw flour taste.
6. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to break up any lumps that may form. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth.
7. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
8. Stir in the heavy cream and sherry (if using). The sherry adds a wonderful depth of flavor, but it’s perfectly fine to omit it if you prefer.
9. Add the Parmesan cheese and parsley. Stir until the cheese is melted and the parsley is incorporated.
10. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, so start with a little and adjust as needed.
11. Remove the sauce from the heat and set aside.

Cooking the Pasta and Turkey:

1. While the sauce is simmering, let’s cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt helps to season the pasta as it cooks.
2. Add the spaghetti or linguine to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian, so the pasta should be firm but not hard.
3. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well. Don’t rinse the pasta, as the starch on the surface helps the sauce cling to it.
4. While the pasta is cooking, if your turkey is not already cooked, you can quickly cook it in a pan with a little olive oil. Make sure it is cooked through before cubing it. If you are using leftover turkey, simply cube it and set it aside.

Assembling the Tetrazzini:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cubed turkey, and mushroom sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Make sure every strand of pasta is lovingly coated in that delicious sauce!
3. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. I like to use a little cooking spray to prevent sticking.
4. If you’re using panko breadcrumbs, melt the remaining butter in a small skillet. Add the breadcrumbs and cook, stirring constantly, until golden brown and crispy. This will add a lovely textural element to the tetrazzini.
5. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and the toasted panko breadcrumbs (if using) over the top of the tetrazzini.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tetrazzini is heated through and the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Let the tetrazzini cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the sauce to thicken slightly and prevent you from burning your mouth!

Tips and Variations:

Spice it Up!

For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mushroom sauce.

Vegetable Power!

Feel free to add other vegetables to the tetrazzini, such as peas, carrots, or broccoli. Just add them to the skillet along with the mushrooms.

Cheese Please!

Experiment with different cheeses! Gruyere, mozzarella, or provolone would all be delicious additions.

Make it Ahead!

You can assemble the tetrazzini ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Leftover Love!

Leftover tetrazzini can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Gluten-Free Option!

Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour to make this dish gluten-free.

Herb Heaven!

Add other fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the mushroom sauce for extra flavor.

Wine Pairing!

A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, would pair perfectly with this tetrazzini.

Broth Boost!

For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.

Mushroom Medley!

Use a variety of mushrooms, such as shiitake, oyster, and portobello, for a more complex flavor.

Nutty Notes!

Add a handful of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds to the topping for added crunch and flavor.

Cream Cheese Comfort!

For an extra creamy sauce, stir in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese at the end.

Lemon Zest Zing!

Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the mushroom sauce for a bright, citrusy note.

Garlic Galore!

If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two to the sauce.

Onion Options!

Try using shallots instead of onions for a more delicate flavor.

Butter Bliss!

Use brown butter for an even richer and more complex flavor in the sauce.

Breadcrumb Bonanza!

Use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor in the topping.

Turkey Time Saver!

Use rotisserie chicken or turkey instead of cooking your own.

Pasta Possibilities!

Try using different types of pasta, such as penne or rotini.

Parmesan Power!

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.

Parsley Perfection!

Use fresh parsley for the best flavor and aroma.

Salt Savvy!

Use kosher salt for the best flavor and texture.

Pepper Punch!

Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.

Oven Observation!

Keep a close eye on the tetrazzini while it’s baking to prevent the topping from burning.

Cooling Consideration!

Let the tetrazzini cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Conclusion:

This Mushroom Turkey Tetrazzini isn’t just another leftover turkey recipe; it’s a creamy, comforting, and utterly delicious way to breathe new life into your holiday bird. The earthy mushrooms, tender turkey, and rich, cheesy sauce create a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, you’ll want to make this even *without* leftover turkey!

Why is this a must-try? Because it’s incredibly versatile, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. It elevates simple ingredients into something truly special, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those odds and ends lurking in your fridge after a big holiday feast. It’s a win-win!

But the best part? You can easily customize this recipe to suit your own tastes. Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. Want to make it even more decadent? Stir in a dollop of mascarpone cheese at the end.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Comfort: Serve it hot, straight from the oven, with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for dipping.
* Elevated Elegance: Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving. A crisp white wine would pair beautifully.
* Vegetarian Option: Easily adapt this recipe by substituting the turkey with more mushrooms, or adding other vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers. You could even use a plant-based chicken substitute.
* Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux to make this a gluten-free delight.
* Individual Portions: Bake the tetrazzini in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
* Make-Ahead Meal: Assemble the tetrazzini ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
* Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a little extra heat.
* Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses! Gruyere, fontina, or even a smoked gouda would add a unique flavor dimension.

I truly believe this Mushroom Turkey Tetrazzini will become a new family favorite. It’s the perfect balance of comfort food and sophisticated flavors, and it’s so easy to adapt to your own preferences.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a dish that will impress your family and friends. I’m confident you’ll love it as much as I do.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try this recipe? What variations did you make? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your stories. Happy cooking! Let me know if you have any questions, I’m always here to help. Don’t forget to rate the recipe if you enjoyed it!

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