Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole Bake

This creamy Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole is my absolute favorite way to turn leftover turkey into a decadent crowd pleasing dinner With a tangle of perfectly cooked spaghetti sweet peas and savory mushrooms all tucked into a rich cheesy sauce and baked until bubbly it’s a comfort classic that never disappoints

Every Thanksgiving I look forward to making this with turkey leftovers My family always fights for the crispy top and never leaves a noodle behind

Ingredients

• Cooked turkey: diced or shredded using leftovers makes this casserole extra flavorful look for juicy breast or dark meat for best results
• Spaghetti or fettuccine: classic base that soaks up the creamy sauce opt for bronze cut for best texture
• Fresh mushrooms: sliced provide earthy richness white or cremini are great choices
• Onion: finely chopped builds sweet aromatic flavor
• Garlic: fresh minced adds depth and zing
• Frozen peas: thawed pop of green and sweetness choose peas with bright color for maximum flavor
• Unsalted butter: base for sautéing and making the roux always use fresh for richness
• All purpose flour: thickens the sauce sift for smoothness
• Chicken or turkey broth: delivers savory backbone homemade or low sodium preferred
• Whole milk: rounds out the sauce use whole milk for the most velvety result
• Heavy cream: takes it over the top with decadent richness
• Grated Parmesan cheese: for intense umami flavor and perfect browning always grate from a wedge if you can
• Dried thyme: for herbal notes crushed between your fingers to release oils
• Salt and black pepper: essential for seasoning use fresh ground black pepper for a boost
• Breadcrumbs: for crunchy topping panko stays crisp longer choose one with minimal additives
• Extra Parmesan cheese: for a golden gooey finish
• Melted butter: helps topping brown beautifully

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish so the casserole slides out easily

Cook the Pasta:

Boil spaghetti in well salted water until just shy of fully tender so it holds up to baking then drain and set aside

Sauté Aromatics and Mushrooms:

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat cook the onion until translucent about three minutes then add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and soften about four minutes more stir in the garlic and cook one minute until fragrant

Make the Roux and Sauce:

Sprinkle flour evenly across the vegetables and cook stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste this takes one to two minutes gradually whisk in broth then milk and cream bringing the mixture up to a gentle simmer so it thickens without scorching this takes about five minutes

Melt Cheese and Season:

Add Parmesan thyme salt and black pepper to the pot stirring until the cheese fully melts and the sauce is smooth and velvety

Combine Turkey Veggies and Pasta:

Take the skillet off the heat fold in the diced turkey thawed peas and cooked pasta mixing until everything is coated and evenly dispersed

Assemble the Casserole:

Pour the whole mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly in the pan pressing gently to settle

Prepare the Topping:

In a small bowl mix breadcrumbs Parmesan and melted butter with your fingers until it is evenly coated and crumbly then sprinkle the topping in an even layer all over the casserole

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Place the dish in the oven and bake for twenty five to thirty minutes until the edges are bubbling and the top is golden brown let it stand for five minutes before serving so it slices cleanly and the sauce sets

Save

As a cheese lover I adore what Parmesan does here its nutty toastiness defines the whole dish I still remember my mom letting me sprinkle the breadcrumbs and cheese over the top when I was little it felt like the most important job in the kitchen

Storage Tips

This casserole keeps very well in the fridge covered tightly for up to four days I recommend reheating individual portions in the microwave or oven for the best creamy texture If you want to freeze it set aside portions in airtight containers before baking then thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed

Ingredient Substitutions

No turkey on hand Substitute rotisserie chicken or even leftover ham Try swapping mushrooms for sautéed zucchini or bell pepper if you do not like mushrooms For a gluten free version use a rice flour roux gluten free pasta and crushed gluten free crackers for the topping To lighten the dish use half and half and reduced fat milk

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm straight from the baking dish paired with a crisp green salad for contrast I love adding roasted broccoli on the side or crusty sourdough bread for extra comfort This dish also pairs beautifully with a glass of lightly oaked Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio if you wish

Cultural and Historical Context

Tetrazzini was named after the famous Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini and was created in San Francisco as a way to transform poultry leftovers into a mouthwatering baked pasta dish Though associated with American home cooking it has deep roots in celebration and thrifty kitchen wisdom

Seasonal Adaptations

Add a handful of sautéed spinach or blanched green beans in spring Toss in roasted turkey and a bit of cranberry sauce for a post Thanksgiving spin Try wild mushrooms foraged or bought in autumn for a woodsy touch

Success Stories

Many readers have told me that this dish is now their go to for post holiday dinners Some even make extra turkey just so there are plenty of leftovers to craft a bubbling Tetrazzini casserole The crunchy golden top is a guaranteed hit with both adults and kids It is amazing how a simple pasta bake brings everyone together at the table

Freezer Meal Conversion

Build the casserole all the way up to the topping then freeze tightly wrapped Unbaked casseroles will keep for up to three months When ready to eat thaw in the fridge overnight uncover and bake as usual adding a few minutes for extra chill

Save

Let your casserole cool briefly before serving for the smoothest slices and creamiest results Enjoy this comforting meal with those you love

Recipe FAQ

→ What type of pasta works best for this casserole?

Spaghetti or fettuccine work well, but short pasta like penne or rotini can be used for added texture.

→ Can I substitute chicken for turkey?

Yes, rotisserie or cooked chicken is a great alternative, maintaining the dish’s flavor and texture.

→ How do I achieve a creamy sauce without heavy cream?

Use half-and-half or reduced-fat milk for a lighter sauce, or blend a little low-fat sour cream in for richness.

→ What vegetables pair well with this casserole?

Mushrooms, peas, and onions are classic. You can also add diced celery or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Cover and refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

→ Is this casserole suitable for freezing?

Yes, assemble and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight and bake as directed for best results.