Are you craving a comforting, yet elegant dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion? Look no further than this original Turkey Tetrazzini recipe! This creamy, cheesy pasta bake is bursting with flavor and texture, featuring tender turkey, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, savory sauce. It's a delicious twist on a classic, easy enough for beginners, yet impressive enough to wow experienced cooks. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 6-8 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
- 1 lb cooked turkey, diced (leftover turkey works perfectly!)
- 1 lb fettuccine pasta
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese (or Swiss cheese)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Cook the Pasta: Cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Make the Sauce: Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Add Flavor: Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Gruyere cheese, parsley, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Combine & Bake: Add the cooked turkey and pasta to the sauce. Stir gently to combine. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Turkey Tetrazzini:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for preventing mushiness in the baked dish.
- Use good quality cheese: The cheese plays a significant role in the flavor of this dish. Don't skimp on quality!
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less of any spice to suit your preference. A dash of nutmeg or paprika can add depth of flavor.
- Make it ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving. It's perfect for meal prepping!
Variations:
- Add Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add earthy flavor and texture.
- Use Different Cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Fontina or Asiago.
- Add Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli or peas would be a delicious addition.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
This Original Turkey Tetrazzini recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a delicious and easy recipe that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy this quick dinner idea and share your culinary creations with us! We'd love to see your pictures!