Are you craving a creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting meal that’s surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further than this homemade Stouffer’s Turkey Tetrazzini recipe! Inspired by the classic frozen favorite, this recipe elevates the dish with fresh ingredients and a touch of homemade love. It's the perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a casual weekend gathering. Get ready for a delicious and satisfying meal that will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4-6 people and offers a delicious balance of flavors and textures. You can easily adjust the quantities to suit your needs.
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup dry sherry (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups cooked egg noodles
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Follow these simple steps for a perfect homemade Stouffer's Turkey Tetrazzini:
Step 1: Browning the Turkey
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground turkey until cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Sautéing Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until softened. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until they release their moisture and start to brown slightly.
Step 3: Creating the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, sherry (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through and slightly thickened.
Step 4: Combining Everything
Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and gently stir to combine with the creamy turkey and vegetable mixture. Stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated.
Step 5: Baking (Optional)
For an extra bubbly and cheesy finish, transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
Step 6: Serving and Garnish
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This dish is delicious on its own, but a side salad would complement it beautifully.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in, skin-on turkey thighs instead of ground turkey. Just remember to adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or a blend of your favorites would all work well.
- Add some cooked chicken or vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli for extra nutrients and flavor. This is a great way to use up leftover cooked vegetables.
- If you don’t have sherry, you can substitute with chicken broth or white wine.
- For a lighter version, use low-sodium cream of mushroom soup and reduce the amount of cheese.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40g
This recipe is a testament to the fact that healthy meals and delicious dishes don't have to be complicated. It's a perfect example of easy recipes and homemade cooking at its finest. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal!