Cooking Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole always takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. I can still picture her standing at the stove, stirring the bubbling, creamy mixture and humming softly to herself as the comforting aromas filled the air. Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole was one of her signature dishes, and she took such pride in mastering the perfect balance of flavors.
Whenever the holidays rolled around, I knew I could count on Grandma to make her famous Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole. It was the centerpiece of our family’s Thanksgiving feast, and we all looked forward to diving into that rich, savory casserole, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust. Even as a kid, I could appreciate how the tender turkey, al dente pasta, and velvety sauce worked in perfect harmony.
To this day, the mere thought of Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole evokes such warm, nostalgic feelings. It’s the kind of dish that instantly transports you back to your childhood, surrounded by loved ones and the comforts of home. That’s why this recipe will always be a cherished family favorite – and I’m excited to share it with you.
Why This Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole
What sets this Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole apart is the attention to detail in every step of the process. From the way the turkey is simmered to infuse the sauce with incredible flavor, to the foolproof method for achieving that signature creamy texture, every element is carefully considered. And the secret ingredient that really ties it all together? A splash of dry sherry that adds a subtle, sophisticated depth of flavor.
But the true magic happens when you pull the Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole fresh from the oven, with that golden breadcrumb topping glistening and beckoning you to take a bite. The first forkful reveals the harmony of textures – tender turkey, al dente pasta, and a silky sauce that coats every nook and cranny. It’s a symphony of flavors that will have your family and guests raving.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- Cooked turkey – The star of the show, of course! You can use leftover roasted turkey or opt for a rotisserie bird for convenience.
- Egg noodles – Wide, hearty egg noodles provide the perfect base for this casserole.
- Mushrooms – Sautéed mushrooms lend an earthy, umami flavor that complements the turkey beautifully.
- Cream of mushroom soup – This pantry staple is the foundation for the rich, creamy sauce.
- Sherry – A splash of dry sherry adds a sophisticated note that really elevates the dish.
- Parmesan cheese – Grated Parmesan not only enhances the creaminess but also provides a delightful textural contrast with the breadcrumb topping.
- Breadcrumbs – A crisp, golden breadcrumb topping takes this Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole to the next level.
Step-by-Step Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole Instructions
Preparing Your Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole
Whipping up this comforting Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole is a breeze, and the total prep and cook time is just about an hour. You’ll need a large skillet or Dutch oven, a baking dish, and a few other kitchen essentials. Let’s get started!
1- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, sauté the mushrooms in a bit of olive oil over medium-high heat until they’re tender and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3- Add the cooked turkey, cream of mushroom soup, sherry, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4- Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.
5- Transfer the turkey mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with the cooked noodles. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
6- Bake the Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the edges are bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these pro tips in mind:
- Use a rotisserie or leftover roasted turkey for maximum flavor.
- Don’t overcook the noodles – they should still have a bit of bite to them.
- Sautéing the mushrooms before adding them to the sauce enhances their natural umami notes.
- Be generous with the breadcrumb topping – it’s the crowning glory of this dish!
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to come together.
Serving and Storing Your Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole
Perfect Pairings for Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole
Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a classic Thanksgiving-inspired meal, serve it alongside roasted Brussels sprouts, creamy mashed potatoes, and a light green salad. Or, for a more casual weeknight dinner, it’s delicious with a simple side of garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad.
As for beverages, a medium-bodied white wine or a light, refreshing beer would both be excellent accompaniments to this rich and savory casserole.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole is that it’s incredibly versatile when it comes to storage and meal prep. You can make the entire casserole in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Or, you can assemble the layers and keep it unbaked in the fridge for up to 2 days.
If you have leftovers, they’ll keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions in 1-2 minute intervals.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole
Creative Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole Variations
While this classic Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole recipe is sure to become a family favorite, there’s always room for creativity. Try swapping in different types of pasta, like penne or farfalle, for a fun twist. You could also experiment with adding vegetables like peas, broccoli, or spinach to boost the nutritional value.
For a heartier version, mix in some diced ham or crispy bacon. Or, for a Mediterranean-inspired take, replace the sherry with a splash of dry white wine and stir in some sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil.
Making Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole Diet-Friendly
To make this Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole more diet-friendly, there are a few simple substitutions you can try. Instead of regular egg noodles, opt for whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta. For the creamy sauce, use a combination of low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt and reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup.
To reduce the overall carb count, skip the breadcrumb topping and serve the casserole over a bed of steamed cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. And for a dairy-free version, replace the Parmesan cheese with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of turkey?
A: Absolutely! Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole is equally delicious when made with leftover chicken. The preparation and cooking process will be the same.
Q: How long does the Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole take to bake?
A: The casserole bakes for 25-30 minutes at 375°F, until the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole in advance and keep it unbaked in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Leftover Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, you can either pop it back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual portions in 1-2 minute intervals.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Absolutely! Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole freezes beautifully. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6
Description
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of this comforting Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole – a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
– 8 oz. egg noodles
– 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or cubed
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp dried parsley
– 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. 3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey, cream of mushroom soup, milk, Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, white wine or broth, garlic powder, parsley, and black pepper. Mix well.
4. 4. Stir in the cooked egg noodles and transfer the mixture to a 9×13 baking dish.
5. 5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
6. 6. Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use a mixture of cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or frozen peas to the casserole. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, a true classic that will have your family and guests raving. With its tender turkey, creamy sauce, and crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a new holiday tradition in your home.
I hope this recipe inspires you to channel your inner Grandma and whip up a batch of this comforting casserole. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, a cozy winter dinner, or just because, it’s sure to bring a taste of home to your table. So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven and get ready to savor the flavors of Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole perfection!