Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini Bake
Indulge in a comforting dish that combines tender bits of turkey with a rich, creamy sauce enveloping perfectly cooked spaghetti. This Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini, inspired by a classic microwave recipe, is effortlessly adaptable to your pantry’s offerings. Whether you're using leftover turkey or chicken, this dish is perfect for utilizing ingredients you have on hand. With simple preparation and easy cooking methods, it can be made ahead of time and frozen for those busy weeknights, making it a reliable go-to for family dinners or gatherings. The savory flavors of this baked dish promise to delight your taste buds, while the creamy texture brings a satisfying warmth that everyone will love.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
spaghetti
8 (ounces, cooked)
margarine
1/4 (cup)
onion
1 (small, chopped)
lemon juice
1 1/2 (teaspoons)
flour
1/4 (cup)
salt
1 (teaspoon)
paprika
1/2 (teaspoon, plus additional for sprinkling)
nutmeg
1/8 (teaspoon)
turkey or chicken broth
2 (cups)
milk
1/2 (cup (or cream/soy milk))
cooked turkey or chicken
2 (cups, cubed)
Parmesan cheese
1/2 (cup, grated)
Instructions
1
Preheat your microwave or oven to medium-high heat.
2
In a greased 8x12 inch baking dish, layer the cooked spaghetti evenly at the bottom.
3
In a medium heat-safe bowl, combine margarine, chopped onion, and lemon juice. If you're using dehydrated onion, add it here.
4
Microwave on high for about 1-2 minutes until the margarine has melted and the onions are soft.
5
Stir in the flour, salt, paprika, and nutmeg, mixing until you achieve a smooth consistency.
6
Microwave this mixture for an additional 1 minute, then stir well.
7
Gradually add in the turkey or chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
8
Microwave on high heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
9
Once thickened, mix in the milk (or cream) and cubed turkey or chicken until well combined.
10
Pour the creamy turkey mixture over the spaghetti in the baking dish, ensuring even coverage.
11
Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese and a dusting of paprika for added flavor and visual appeal.
12
If using an oven, bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbling and golden brown on top. For microwave cooking, heat on medium-high for 10-12 minutes, watching closely to avoid overcooking.
13
Let it cool slightly before serving, and enjoy your delicious Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini Bake?
It is a comforting dish that combines tender bits of turkey with a rich, creamy sauce and spaghetti, inspired by a classic microwave recipe.
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, this dish is effortlessly adaptable and you can use either leftover turkey or chicken.
What kind of pasta is used in this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for 8 ounces of cooked spaghetti.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made ahead of time and frozen for busy weeknights.
What are the cooking methods for this recipe?
This recipe can be prepared using either a microwave or a traditional oven.
How long does it take to bake in the oven?
In the oven, it should be baked for 20-25 minutes until bubbling and golden brown on top.
How long does it take to cook in the microwave?
For the final cooking stage in the microwave, heat it on medium-high for 10-12 minutes.
What size baking dish is recommended?
A greased 8x12 inch baking dish is required for this recipe.
What is the base of the creamy sauce?
The sauce is made from a base of margarine, flour, turkey or chicken broth, and milk or cream.
How do I prevent lumps in the sauce?
Gradually add the broth while stirring continuously to ensure a smooth consistency.
Can I use soy milk in this recipe?
Yes, soy milk is listed as a valid alternative to milk or cream.
What spices are used for seasoning?
The recipe uses salt, paprika, and a touch of nutmeg for flavoring.
How do I prepare the onions?
You should use one small chopped onion or an equivalent amount of dehydrated onion.
What is used as a topping for the bake?
The top is sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese and a dusting of paprika.
How much turkey or chicken is needed?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of cubed, cooked turkey or chicken.
How much broth is required?
You will need 2 cups of turkey or chicken broth.
How long should the sauce be microwaved to thicken?
Microwave the sauce on high for 8-10 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes.
What is the first step in the instructions?
Preheat your microwave or oven to medium-high heat.
How much margarine is used?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of margarine.
How much flour is needed for the roux?
You will need 1/4 cup of flour to mix with the margarine.
Is lemon juice included in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe uses 1 1/2 teaspoons of lemon juice.
How much Parmesan cheese is used?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Does the recipe require a specific amount of nutmeg?
Yes, it uses 1/8 teaspoon of nutmeg.
Should the spaghetti be cooked before assembly?
Yes, the 8 ounces of spaghetti should be cooked before layering it in the baking dish.
What should the consistency of the flour and margarine mixture be?
It should be mixed until you achieve a smooth consistency before adding liquids.
When should I add the milk or cream?
Add the milk or cream once the sauce has thickened, along with the cubed turkey.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 12 ingredients listed for this recipe.
Is this recipe considered a comfort food?
Yes, the description identifies it as a comforting dish with a satisfying warmth.
How should I serve the Tetrazzini?
Let it cool slightly after cooking before serving to enjoy the flavor and texture.
Is this a good recipe for using leftovers?
Yes, it is specifically described as perfect for utilizing leftover turkey or chicken.