A Comforting Classic with a Twist

When it comes to comfort food, nothing warms the heart and fills the belly quite like Turkey Tetrazzini. This creamy, cheesy pasta bake combines tender turkey, earthy mushrooms, and a velvety sauce, all topped with a golden breadcrumb crust. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up leftover turkey after a holiday feast or simply craving a hearty dish that’s easy to prepare, Turkey Tetrazzini is a perfect choice.

This recipe is designed for home cooks of all skill levels and is ideal for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week. With easy-to-follow steps, versatile ingredients, and plenty of flavor, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to create this beloved classic.

Why You’ll Love This Turkey Tetrazzini

Great for Leftovers: If you have leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or Christmas, this is the perfect way to give it new life.
Rich and Flavorful: The creamy sauce, cheesy layers, and hint of fresh herbs make every bite irresistible.
Versatile: Swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand—chicken, ham, or even rotisserie chicken work beautifully.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish serves a large group, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it ahead of time and bake it when ready, saving you time on busy days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this indulgent dish:

Main Ingredients:

1 lb linguine, snapped in half, cooked to al dente
8 oz sliced baby portabella or cremini mushrooms
1 medium onion, diced
1–2 Tbsp olive oil
3 medium cloves garlic, minced
½ cup unsalted butter, plus 2 Tbsp divided use
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or herbes de Provence
3½ cups half and half
2 cups chicken stock (or strained turkey drippings)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided use
1 Tbsp fresh thyme
3 cups chopped turkey
2 cups shredded white cheddar or Gruyere cheese, divided use
1 cup frozen petite peas
⅔ cup panko breadcrumbs
Chopped Italian parsley for garnishing

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large pot (for pasta and sauce)
13×9-inch baking dish
Medium skillet
Whisk
Wooden spoon or spatula
Small bowl (for breadcrumb topping)
Measuring cups and spoons
Microwave (for melting butter)

How to Make Turkey Tetrazzini

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F and spritz a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Cook the linguine in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook Vegetables

In a large pot, heat 2 Tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the diced onions and mushrooms for 5–7 minutes until softened and lightly browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Remove the vegetables from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and melt ½ cup butter in the same pot. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until the flour is fully absorbed. Gradually whisk in the half and half and chicken stock, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce gently simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Combine

Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in 1 cup shredded white cheddar or Gruyere cheese, ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh thyme. Mix until smooth and creamy. Return the cooked vegetables to the pot, along with the linguine, chopped turkey, and frozen peas. Stir to combine.

Step 5: Assemble and Top

Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheese. In a small bowl, melt the remaining 2 Tbsp butter and mix with panko breadcrumbs and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the top.

Step 6: Bake and Serve

Bake for 30–40 minutes until bubbly around the edges and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Tips and Tricks

Use Leftover Turkey: This recipe works beautifully with roasted or smoked turkey. If you don’t have turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken is an excellent substitute.
Cheese Variations: Swap white cheddar for Gruyere, Fontina, or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Add Veggies: Feel free to include other vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Make It Ahead: Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve, adding 5–10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Freezing: You can freeze the assembled, unbaked dish for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Turkey Tetrazzini stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Keep it in an airtight container and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. For quicker reheating, use the microwave, but cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture.

Pairing Suggestions

This rich, creamy dish pairs beautifully with light and refreshing sides like:

Salads: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the Tetrazzini.
Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread or soft dinner rolls for a complete meal.
Wine: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce, while a light Pinot Noir pairs well with the turkey and mushrooms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! This recipe works perfectly with cooked chicken, making it a versatile option year-round.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.

What if I don’t have half and half?

You can use a combination of heavy cream and milk as a substitute.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting soggy?

Be sure to cook the linguine to al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.

A Dish to Share and Enjoy

Turkey Tetrazzini is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich flavors, creamy textures, and heartwarming memories. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a dish that brings everyone together at the table.

If you try this recipe, please share your experience in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes, cooking tips, and meal ideas. Share this post with your friends and family, and let’s spread the joy of good food. Happy cooking!

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