Creamy Cheesy Turkey Tetrazzini Bake
This Creamy Cheesy Turkey Tetrazzini Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together tender strands of spaghetti, savory turkey, and a creamy mushroom sauce, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for using up leftover turkey from holiday meals, this family-friendly casserole is simple to make and perfect for sharing. Whether you're serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering, this dish will be a crowd-pleaser that warms the heart and satisfies the palate.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Spaghetti
2 cups (broken into 2-inch pieces)
Chicken bouillon cubes
2 (dissolved in boiling water)
Boiling water
3/4 cup (used to dissolve bouillon)
Cream of mushroom soup
1 (10 3/4 ounce) can
Celery salt
1/4 teaspoon
Pepper
1/4 teaspoon
Cubed cooked turkey
1 1/2 cups
Chopped onion
1 cup
Diced pimento
1 tablespoon (optional)
Shredded cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups (divided)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3
In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the chicken bouillon cubes in the boiling water to create a broth. Add the cream of mushroom soup, celery salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
4
Add the drained spaghetti to the soup mixture and stir until the pasta is fully coated.
5
Incorporate the cubed cooked turkey, chopped onion, and diced pimento (if using) into the bowl and mix until evenly distributed.
6
Fold in 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese for added creaminess.
7
Transfer the mixture into a greased 8x8-inch baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
8
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
9
Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the dish is heated through.
10
Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Turkey Tetrazzini!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Cheesy Turkey Tetrazzini Bake?
It is a comforting and hearty casserole dish made with spaghetti, savory turkey, and a creamy mushroom sauce, all topped with melted cheddar cheese.
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, cooked cubed chicken is an excellent substitute for the turkey in this recipe.
What kind of pasta is best for this recipe?
Spaghetti broken into 2-inch pieces is the traditional and recommended pasta for this dish.
How do I prevent the spaghetti from getting mushy?
Cook the spaghetti until it is al dente according to package directions, as it will continue cooking while in the oven.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C) before baking the casserole.
How long does the Turkey Tetrazzini need to bake?
The dish should bake for approximately 40 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it.
What size baking pan is required?
An 8x8-inch greased baking pan is used for this specific recipe.
Is the diced pimento mandatory?
No, the diced pimento is optional and can be omitted if you prefer.
What cheese can I use if I do not have cheddar?
You can substitute cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.
How do I prepare the spaghetti for the bake?
The spaghetti should be broken into 2-inch pieces and boiled in salted water before being added to the mixture.
What can I serve as a side for Turkey Tetrazzini?
A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed green beans make excellent sides.
Can I use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom?
Yes, cream of chicken or cream of celery soup are suitable alternatives for the base sauce.
How should I store leftover Tetrazzini?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 or 4 days.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw it completely in the fridge before baking.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat portions in the microwave or bake the entire dish at 350°F until heated through.
Can I add extra vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely; peas, sautéed mushrooms, or diced bell peppers are popular additions.
What can I use if I do not have chicken bouillon cubes?
You can replace the 3/4 cup of boiling water and bouillon cubes with 3/4 cup of prepared chicken broth.
How do I know when the dish is fully cooked?
The casserole is done when it is heated through and the cheese on top has become bubbly.
Is this recipe suitable for large groups?
Yes, it is a great potluck dish and can easily be doubled and baked in a 9x13-inch pan.
Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti can be used, though it will have a slightly firmer texture and nuttier taste.
Why do I need to grease the baking pan?
Greasing the pan prevents the pasta and cheese from sticking to the sides, making it easier to serve and clean.
Why dissolve the bouillon in boiling water first?
This ensures the bouillon flavor is evenly distributed throughout the sauce without any salty clumps.
Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned soup?
You can add sautéed mushrooms, but you will still need a creamy base like condensed soup or a homemade béchamel sauce.
How many servings does this 8x8 pan make?
This recipe typically serves between 4 and 6 people depending on portion size.
What is the texture of Turkey Tetrazzini?
The dish has a creamy, tender consistency with a slightly crispy cheese topping.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild flavors and cheesy pasta components make it a favorite for many children.
What type of onion should I use?
A standard yellow or white onion works best for the savory base of this dish.
Can I use leftover holiday roast turkey?
Yes, this dish is an ideal way to use up leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or Christmas meals.
Can I use leftover roast chicken instead?
Yes, leftover roast chicken works just as well as turkey in this versatile recipe.