Turkey Tetrazzini

Turkey Tetrazzini is a true culinary masterpiece, transforming humble leftover turkey into a luxurious, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy pasta bake. Loaded with aromatic herbs and featuring a delightful golden-brown topping, it’s the ultimate comfort food and the perfect solution for post-holiday gatherings. Forget the mundane sandwiches; this casserole is designed to impress and satisfy, making every bite a celebration of flavor and warmth.

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The Ultimate Leftover Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe

There’s a secret joy many of us share: sometimes, the anticipation for Thanksgiving leftovers rivals the excitement of the holiday feast itself. Who can resist the endless possibilities? From savory turkey sliders and fresh turkey salads to wholesome wraps and satisfying turkey sandwiches, the culinary creativity that follows a big holiday meal is truly inspiring. But among all these delicious options, one dish consistently rises above the rest in our household: this incredible Turkey Tetrazzini. It has become an essential post-Thanksgiving tradition, cherished for its ability to transform leftover turkey into a crowd-pleasing, creamy pasta casserole. It’s particularly fantastic when you have guests extending their holiday stay, offering a hearty and comforting meal that everyone adores.

Turkey Tetrazzini isn’t just a way to use up ingredients; it’s a standalone sensation. Originating in the early 20th century, named after opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini, this classic dish has charmed generations with its rich, savory profile and satisfying texture. Our recipe takes that timeless appeal and makes it incredibly simple to recreate, ensuring a perfectly balanced dish every time. Get ready to turn your holiday leftovers into a dish that tastes anything but “leftover.”

A collection of all the ingredients used in the recipe, including cheese, onion, peas, butter, noodles, and more.

Key Ingredients for Flavorful Turkey Tetrazzini

Crafting the perfect Turkey Tetrazzini requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients that work in harmony to create its signature rich and creamy flavor. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need, along with some helpful tips:

Spaghetti: While any pasta can work, spaghetti is traditional for tetrazzini. Breaking it in half before cooking makes it much easier to mix evenly into the casserole and serve gracefully. Cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Unsalted Butter: The foundation of our creamy sauce. Using unsalted butter allows you complete control over the overall saltiness of the dish, especially when combining it with salted broth and cheese.
Baby Bella Mushrooms: These offer a wonderful, meaty texture and a deeper earthy flavor compared to white button mushrooms. Feel free to use other mushroom varieties you enjoy, or even a mix, for added complexity.
Yellow Onion: Finely diced yellow onion provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth that beautifully complements the mushrooms and turkey.
All-Purpose Flour: This is our thickening agent, creating a classic roux with the butter. It’s crucial for achieving that luscious, creamy sauce consistency that defines tetrazzini.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Opting for low-sodium broth is another way to manage the salt content, ensuring your tetrazzini is perfectly seasoned without being overly salty. Chicken broth adds a rich savory base to the sauce.
Half-and-Half: This dairy blend strikes the perfect balance between richness and lightness. For a lighter version, you can substitute with whole milk. If you prefer an extra indulgent, richer sauce, heavy cream is an excellent alternative. Alternatively, if you’re in a pinch, a mix of half whole milk and half heavy cream will mimic half-and-half.
Seasonings: A blend of garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried parsley, and optional ground mustard creates a robust and aromatic flavor profile. While dried herbs are convenient, feel free to use fresh herbs (roughly triple the amount) or even frozen ones for a brighter taste.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese is non-negotiable for the best results. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that prevent them from melting as smoothly. The sharp cheddar provides a bold, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the sauce, and its superior melt adds to the casserole’s creamy texture.
Leftover Cooked Turkey: The star of the show! Diced leftover turkey is perfect for this recipe. However, this dish is incredibly versatile; cooked chicken, ham, or even shrimp make excellent substitutes if turkey isn’t available.
Frozen Peas: These bright green gems add a pop of color, a hint of sweetness, and a pleasant textural contrast. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand; simply toss them in straight from the freezer.
Panko Breadcrumbs (Optional Topping): For an extra layer of texture, a crispy panko topping mixed with melted butter adds a wonderful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.

Sautéing mushrooms and onions in a pan until they become tender.

Crafting Your Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini: Step-by-Step

Making this delightful Turkey Tetrazzini is a straightforward process, combining simple steps to achieve maximum flavor and comfort. Follow these instructions for a perfect casserole every time:

Prepare the Pasta: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch ceramic baking pan. Set it aside. In a large pot, bring about 12 cups of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt, then introduce your spaghetti, snapped in half, to the boiling water. Cook the spaghetti for one minute less than the package directions specify. This ensures it’s perfectly al dente, ready to absorb the rich sauce without becoming mushy during baking. Drain the pasta thoroughly and let it cool, tossing it occasionally to prevent it from sticking together.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over high heat. Add the thinly sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring frequently, for about 4 minutes until they begin to soften and release their moisture. The high heat helps them develop a beautiful golden color and deeper flavor.
Add Onion and Sauté Further: Introduce the finely diced yellow onion to the pot with the mushrooms. Continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden brown and the onion is softened and translucent. This step builds the foundational flavors for your sauce.
Create the Roux and Build the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Sprinkle the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the mushroom and onion mixture. Stir constantly for 1 minute, allowing the flour to cook out its raw taste and form a roux. Gradually pour in 1-1/2 cups of the half-and-half, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens, which should take about 30 seconds. Next, add the 2 cups of reduced-sodium chicken broth, the remaining half-and-half, and all the seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried parsley, and optional ground mustard). Season with salt and pepper to taste; a good starting point is 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Continue cooking and stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens enough to leave a visible trail on the back of a spoon. It doesn’t need to be extremely thick at this stage, as it will continue to thicken after other ingredients are added and during baking. Remember to constantly whisk and scrape the bottom of the pot to prevent the flour from settling and burning.
Combine and Bake: Turn off the stove heat. Stir in half of the freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it’s just combined and melted into the sauce. Add the cooked spaghetti, diced cooked turkey, and frozen peas to the pot. Stir gently until all the ingredients are well coated with the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary – this is your last chance to perfect the flavor! Transfer the mixture to your prepared 9×13-inch baking pan, spreading it into an even layer. Top with the remaining cheese and the optional crispy panko breadcrumb topping.
Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly, melted, and golden brown on top. The panko topping, if used, should be crisp and golden. Optionally, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving immediately. Enjoy your magnificent Turkey Tetrazzini!

Adding flour to the mushrooms and half and half, stirring until the mixture thickens.

Perfect Pairings: What To Serve With Turkey Tetrazzini

Turkey Tetrazzini is a hearty, fulfilling meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the dining experience even further. Here are some fantastic suggestions:

A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the tetrazzini. The fresh greens and tangy dressing cleanse the palate beautifully.
Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as tender broccoli or savory Parmesan Brussels sprouts, add essential nutrients and a pleasant texture. Their slightly bitter notes can balance the creamy pasta.
Warm garlic bread or soft dinner rolls are ideal for soaking up any extra bits of the delicious, creamy sauce. There’s nothing quite like a crusty piece of bread to complete a comforting meal.
A small side of cranberry sauce can introduce a delightful touch of sweetness and tartness, echoing the holiday flavors that often accompany turkey.
Other roasted root vegetables like sweet and earthy carrots or caramelized sweet potatoes can add both color and a healthy dose of vitamins.
For another classic pairing, a creamy Caesar salad with crunchy croutons offers a savory, zesty counterpoint that many find irresistible.

Incorporating the remaining seasonings and other ingredients into the Turkey Tetrazzini until well mixed.

Creative Variations for Your Tetrazzini

One of the best things about Turkey Tetrazzini is its adaptability. Don’t be afraid to experiment and customize it to your taste!

Try a Different Meat: While turkey is traditional, feel free to substitute with other cooked proteins like shredded chicken (a classic alternative), diced ham, or even sautéed shrimp for a seafood-inspired twist.
Make it Meat-Free: For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and boost the vegetable content. Add more mushrooms, sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for a hearty and flavorful meatless meal.
Change the Cheese: While sharp cheddar is excellent, experiment with other melting cheeses. Mozzarella offers a milder, stringier melt; Parmesan adds a salty, nutty bite; and Gruyère provides a sophisticated, creamy, and slightly earthy flavor. A blend of cheeses can also be fantastic!
Use Another Pasta: Penne, fettuccine, rotini, or bowtie pasta can all work wonderfully in Tetrazzini. Choose a shape that holds sauce well.
Add Some Spice: If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a subtle kick.
Freshen It Up: Incorporate fresh herbs at the end of cooking for a vibrant flavor. Fresh thyme, parsley, or basil can elevate the dish significantly.
Crunchy Topping Alternatives: Instead of panko, consider a topping made with crushed buttery crackers or even French fried onions for a different kind of crunch.
Gluten-Free Option: Easily make this recipe gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the sauce.

Transferring the fully mixed ingredients to a pan and adding cheese and toasted panko on top before baking.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips for Turkey Tetrazzini

This Turkey Tetrazzini recipe is perfect for meal prepping and storing, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or future gatherings.

Prep Early: You can get a head start by preparing the components of this casserole in advance. Cook the pasta, sauté the mushrooms and onions, and even make the sauce a day or two before assembling. Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine everything, transfer to your baking dish, and proceed with the baking instructions. This makes assembly a breeze!
Storage: Once baked, allow the Tetrazzini to cool completely before storing. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, this casserole freezes exceptionally well. Place cooled Tetrazzini in a freezer-safe, airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen Tetrazzini overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating: To reheat from the refrigerator, cover the dish with foil and warm it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbling. If reheating from frozen (after thawing), it might take a bit longer, around 25-30 minutes. For individual portions, the microwave works perfectly; simply heat until warm, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of milk or broth before reheating can help restore the sauce’s creaminess if it appears too thick.

More Hearty Casserole Recipes to Love

If you’re a fan of comforting casseroles like our Turkey Tetrazzini, you’re in for a treat! These dishes are perfect for feeding a crowd, preparing ahead, or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home.

Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with a decadent brown sugar topping – a holiday staple that’s also great year-round.
Twice-Baked Potato Casserole, an incredibly rich and creamy dish that’s pure comfort food.
Chicken Noodle Casserole, a wholesome and delicious meal the whole family will adore.
Chicken Poppy Seed Casserole, a unique and flavorful take made with rice and tender broccoli.
Crockpot Cowboy Casserole, an easy and hearty slow-cooker favorite that readers can’t get enough of.

Turkey Tetrazzini

By Chelsea Lords

Turn leftover turkey into a crowd-pleaser with this easy, cheesy Turkey Tetrazzini! A creamy pasta bake loaded with herbs, it’s perfect for post-holiday meals.

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 6 servings

Equipment

9 x 13-inch ceramic baking pan
Large pot

Ingredients

1 (16-ounce) box spaghetti snapped in half
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 pound mushrooms thinly sliced; Baby Bella mushrooms recommended
1-1/2 cups finely diced yellow onion (1 large)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups half-and-half
2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups freshly shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (7 ounces)
2 cups diced cooked turkey
1 cup frozen peas
3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs plus 2 tablespoons butter (optional topping)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch ceramic pan; set aside. In a large pot, bring 12 cups water to a boil; add 1 tablespoon salt and the broken spaghetti. Cook for one minute less than the package instructs. Drain and cool, tossing occasionally to prevent sticking.
In a large pot, melt the butter over high heat. Add mushrooms and cook (while stirring) 4 minutes until they start to soften.
Add onion and cook 3–5 minutes or until mushrooms are golden.
Reduce heat to medium. Add flour and stir constantly for 1 minute. Gradually pour in 1-1/2 cups half-and-half, stirring until it thickens (about 30 seconds). Add chicken broth, remaining half-and-half, and all seasonings. Add salt/pepper to taste (start with 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper). Keep cooking and stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens to the point where it leaves a trail on a spoon.
Turn off the stove. Mix in half the cheese until just combined. Add pasta, turkey, and peas, stirring until well coated. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Transfer to the prepared pan in an even layer. Top with remaining cheese and optional breadcrumb topping. Bake 20–25 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden. Optionally garnish with fresh thyme and serve immediately.

Recipe Notes

Note on Half-and-Half: Half-and-half is a dairy product. If you don’t have it, you can make your own by combining half whole milk and half heavy cream.

Note on Optional Topping: To make the optional panko topping, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the panko breadcrumbs and salt to taste (we recommend about 1/4 teaspoon). Stir constantly until the panko is lightly browned and crispy, then sprinkle evenly over the casserole before baking. Alternatively, you can melt the butter in the microwave and mix it with the panko and salt, then sprinkle.

Note on Sauce Thickness: The sauce should be thick enough that when you draw a line on the back of a spoon with your finger, it leaves a visible mark. It does not need to be extremely thick at this point, as it will continue to thicken further after other ingredients are added and during baking. Whisk constantly and scrape the bottom of the pot to prevent the flour from settling and clumping.

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or warm individual portions in the microwave until hot.

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.

We hope this enhanced Turkey Tetrazzini recipe brings warmth and joy to your table. Its creamy texture, rich flavors, and comforting appeal make it a perfect choice for using up holiday leftovers or simply creating a delightful family meal. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations to make it truly your own. Enjoy!