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Let me share my favorite way to transform holiday leftovers into something absolutely magical! This Turkey Tetrazzini has become my post Thanksgiving tradition. It's amazing how those turkey leftovers become this incredibly creamy comforting casserole that my family actually looks forward to more than the holiday meal itself!
Why Turkey Tetrazzini Is Special
I love how flexible this recipe is! Whether you're using turkey from Thanksgiving or chicken from Sunday dinner it always turns out delicious. The way the creamy sauce wraps around each strand of spaghetti creating the most comforting bite it's pure magic in a casserole dish.
Key Ingredients for Turkey Tetrazzini
- Spaghetti: I always cook it just al dente it'll keep cooking in the sauce.
- Mushrooms: Baby bellas are my go to but any mushroom works beautifully.
- Butter and Garlic: These create such an amazing flavor base.
- White Wine: Just a splash brings everything to life.
- Heavy Cream and Broth: The dynamic duo for that velvety sauce.
- Cheddar and Parmesan: Two cheeses are better than one!
- Frozen Peas: They add such pretty color and sweet pop.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Trust me on this crispy topping.
Let's Make It Together
- Start with the Pasta
- Get your water boiling and cook that spaghetti until it's just right remember it'll cook more in the oven!
- Mushroom Magic
- Watch those mushrooms sizzle in butter with garlic and wine they'll soak up all that flavor.
- Create the Sauce
- This is where patience pays off keep whisking that roux until your sauce is silky smooth.
- Mix and Match
- Now comes the fun part tossing everything together until every bite is perfectly coated.
- Crown Your Creation
- That panko parmesan topping is going to create the most amazing golden crust.
- Bake to Perfection
- Pop it in the oven and get ready for your kitchen to smell amazing!
My Best Tips
- Turkey Talk: Even slightly dry turkey works great here the sauce brings it back to life!
- Mix It Up: No turkey? Chicken or ham work just as well.
- That Crunchy Top: Don't skip the panko topping it makes the dish!
Keep It Fresh
This casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge for a few days. When you're ready for round two just warm it up gently either in the oven or microwave. The sauce stays creamy and delicious!
Perfect Pairings
While this dish is definitely filling on its own I love serving it with a crisp green salad for contrast. If you've got leftover holiday sides those work beautifully too! Everything tastes better the next day anyway.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
- Yes, assemble the casserole but wait to add the breadcrumb topping until ready to bake. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- → Can I freeze this casserole?
- Yes, you can freeze before baking. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- → Can I use different pasta?
- While spaghetti is traditional, you can use other pasta shapes like fettuccine, penne, or rotini.
- → What can I substitute for white wine?
- You can use additional chicken broth or add a splash of white wine vinegar for similar flavor.
- → Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
- Yes, cooked chicken works perfectly in this recipe as a substitute for turkey. Use the same amount.