Introduction
When the holiday season comes to an end, many households find themselves with an abundance of leftover turkey. One delicious and comforting way to utilize this leftover turkey is by making a hearty dish of Turkey Tetrazzini. This classic Italian-inspired casserole is a perfect way to transform your holiday leftovers into a flavorful and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Turkey Tetrazzini typically consists of cooked turkey, mushrooms, pasta, and a creamy sauce, all baked together to create a dish that is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you have leftover roasted turkey or turkey breast, this recipe is a fantastic way to breathe new life into your holiday leftovers.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of making Leftover Holiday Turkey Tetrazzini step by step. From gathering the necessary ingredients to the final baking process, you will learn how to create a delicious and comforting meal that is perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let’s dive into the world of Turkey Tetrazzini!
Ingredients
To make Leftover Holiday Turkey Tetrazzini, you will need the following ingredients:
– Leftover cooked turkey, shredded or diced
– 12 oz of spaghetti or fettuccine pasta
– 8 oz of sliced mushrooms
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons of butter
– 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
These ingredients can be easily customized based on your preferences and the availability of leftovers in your kitchen. Feel free to add or substitute ingredients to suit your taste.
Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and mushrooms, and cook until softened.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
6. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
7. Add the heavy cream and continue to cook until the sauce thickens.
8. Stir in half of the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Add the cooked turkey and pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine everything evenly.
10. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
Variations
There are endless possibilities when it comes to customizing your Turkey Tetrazzini. Here are a few variations you can try:
– Add frozen peas or broccoli for added color and nutrition.
– Use different types of cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella for a unique flavor.
– Substitute the heavy cream with milk for a lighter version of the dish.
– Incorporate leftover vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra texture.
– Experiment with different herbs and spices to elevate the flavor profile of the dish.
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own by incorporating your favorite ingredients and flavors.
Tips
Here are some tips to help you make the perfect Leftover Holiday Turkey Tetrazzini:
– Make sure to season the sauce generously as the pasta will absorb some of the flavors.
– Use a combination of white and dark turkey meat for a more flavorful dish.
– Allow the Tetrazzini to rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.
– Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.
– Double the recipe and freeze individual portions for quick and easy meals later on.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Turkey Tetrazzini turns out delicious and satisfying every time.
Conclusion
Leftover Holiday Turkey Tetrazzini is a fantastic way to make the most out of your holiday leftovers. With its creamy sauce, tender turkey, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to become a family favorite.
By following the simple steps outlined in this article and experimenting with different variations and ingredients, you can create a personalized version of Turkey Tetrazzini that suits your taste preferences and dietary needs.
So, the next time you find yourself with leftover turkey after the holidays, don’t let it go to waste. Instead, whip up a batch of Turkey Tetrazzini and enjoy a comforting and delicious meal that will warm your heart and soul.
FAQs
Q: Can I use leftover chicken instead of turkey?
A: Yes, you can easily substitute leftover chicken for turkey in this recipe. The dish will still turn out flavorful and delicious.
Q: How long can I store Turkey Tetrazzini?
A: Leftover Turkey Tetrazzini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Turkey Tetrazzini?
A: Yes, you can freeze Turkey Tetrazzini for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
With these frequently asked questions answered, you are now well-equipped to tackle the world of Turkey Tetrazzini with confidence and creativity.
Leftover Holiday Turkey Tetrazzini
Transform your leftover holiday turkey into a flavorful and satisfying meal with this classic Italian-inspired Turkey Tetrazzini recipe. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
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Leftover cooked turkey, shredded or diced
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12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine pasta
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8 oz sliced mushrooms
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves of garlic, minced
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4 tablespoons of butter
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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2 cups chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
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Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and mushrooms, and cook until softened.
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Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
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Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
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Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
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Add the heavy cream and continue to cook until the sauce thickens.
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Stir in half of the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Add the cooked turkey and pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine everything evenly.
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Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
