Turkey Tetrazzini

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Thanksgiving has come and gone, and you find yourself with an abundance of leftover turkey.

Turkey Tetrazzini
Prep
25 min
Cook
25 min
Total
50 min
Servings
6

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

  2. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.

  3. Add the pasta and cook for 4 minutes, or until almost tender.

  4. Drain the pasta.

  5. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

  6. Add the onion and cook until tender.

  7. Stir in the flour until well blended.

  8. Gradually stir in the milk to prevent lumps from forming.

  9. Season with salt, pepper, poultry seasoning, and mustard.

  10. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens.

  11. Remove from heat and add 2/3 cup cheese and pimento, stirring until cheese melts.

  12. Add undrained mushrooms to the cheese sauce.

  13. Place a layer of pasta in a 9x13 inch baking dish.

  14. Cover with a layer of turkey, followed by a layer of cheese sauce.

  15. Repeat the layers.

  16. Sprinkle the remaining 1/3 cup cheese over the top.

  17. Bake for about 25 minutes in the preheated oven, until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese on top is toasted.

About this recipe

Turkey Tetrazzini: A Delicious Twist on Leftover Turkey

Thanksgiving has come and gone, and you find yourself with an abundance of leftover turkey. What do you do with all that extra meat? Instead of the usual turkey sandwiches, why not try something different? Enter Turkey Tetrazzini - a creamy, comforting dish that will breathe new life into your Thanksgiving leftovers.

What is Turkey Tetrazzini?

Turkey Tetrazzini is a rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines tender pieces of turkey with al dente pasta, a creamy sauce, and a sprinkling of cheese. It's a versatile dish that allows you to get creative with your leftovers. You can add in vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or carrots, and even throw in some herbs for extra flavor.

Why Should You Try Turkey Tetrazzini?

First and foremost, Turkey Tetrazzini is a delicious way to use up your leftover turkey. It takes the mundane and transforms it into something extraordinary. Plus, it's a one-pot wonder that can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without the fuss.

Not only is Turkey Tetrazzini a crowd-pleaser, but it's also a dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste buds. You can experiment with different types of pasta, cheeses, and vegetables to create your own signature version. It's a blank canvas waiting for your culinary creativity.

How to Make Turkey Tetrazzini

Making Turkey Tetrazzini is a breeze. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in a large skillet until they're fragrant and golden. Then, add in your leftover turkey, vegetables, and cooked pasta. In a separate saucepan, prepare a creamy bechamel sauce by whisking together butter, flour, and milk. Pour the sauce over the turkey and pasta mixture, stirring until everything is well-coated.

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with a generous sprinkle of cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the dish is heated through. The result? A comforting and indulgent dish that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Tips for the Perfect Turkey Tetrazzini

Here are a few tips to elevate your Turkey Tetrazzini to the next level:

  1. Use a mix of white and dark turkey meat for added flavor and texture.
  2. Choose a pasta shape that can hold the sauce, such as fettuccine or rotini.
  3. Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a subtle depth of flavor.
  4. Don't skimp on the cheese - it adds a deliciously gooey and melty topping.
  5. Feel free to get creative with the vegetables - think peas, mushrooms, or even roasted red peppers.

Conclusion

Turkey Tetrazzini is the perfect way to transform your leftover turkey into a satisfying and mouthwatering meal. It's a dish that combines comfort and creativity, allowing you to make the most of your Thanksgiving feast. So, the next time you find yourself with leftover turkey, don't settle for the ordinary - indulge in the extraordinary flavors of Turkey Tetrazzini.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use chicken instead of turkey in Turkey Tetrazzini?

Absolutely! Chicken can be a great substitute for turkey in this dish.

Can I freeze Turkey Tetrazzini?

Yes, you can freeze Turkey Tetrazzini. Just make sure to cool it completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers.

How long will Turkey Tetrazzini stay fresh in the refrigerator?

Turkey Tetrazzini can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I add other spices or herbs to the dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste.

Can I make Turkey Tetrazzini without cheese?

Yes, you can omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative if you prefer.

Can I use gluten-free pasta in Turkey Tetrazzini?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make a delicious gluten-free version of Turkey Tetrazzini.

Can I add bacon to Turkey Tetrazzini?

Absolutely! Bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor to the dish.

Can I make Turkey Tetrazzini vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Turkey Tetrazzini by omitting the turkey and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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