Ina Garten Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe

If you’re itching to experiment in the kitchen with a cozy dish, Ina Garten’s Turkey Tetrazzini has gotta be on your list!

This recipe is perfect for your Thanksgiving leftovers or even a fresh turkey any time of year.

You start by sautéing mushrooms with some butter, which adds an earthy richness to the dish.

Mixing Swiss cheese and Parmesan gives it a creamy, slightly nutty flavor that’s to die for.

I recommend pre-cooking your pasta until just al dente to avoid any mushiness when it bakes.

How to Make Ina Garten Turkey Tetrazzini

Ingredients

• 12 oz Spaghetti
• 4 tbsp Butter
• 8 oz Mushrooms (sliced)
• 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 2 cups Chicken Broth
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 3 cups Cooked Turkey (cubed)
• 3/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 1-1/2-quart baking dish with a tablespoon of butter.

Step 2:

Cook the spaghetti just shy of al dente in a large pot of salted water, then drain it well.

Step 3:

Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, add mushrooms, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Step 4:

Stir the flour into the mushrooms, cook for 2 minutes, then gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth.

Step 5:

Add heavy cream, turkey, and half of the Parmesan to the mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 6:

Combine the cooked spaghetti with the creamy turkey mixture, then pour it all into the greased baking dish.

Step 7:

Top with the remaining Parmesan and bake for about 25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

Step 8:

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Ingredients

Always use fresh mushrooms and high-quality chicken broth because they add depth and flavor to this dish.

Cooking the Pasta

Undercook your spaghetti slightly since it will continue cooking while it bakes, ensuring it remains perfectly al dente after baking.

Adding More Flavor

For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of white wine to the sauce during the cooking of mushrooms.

Cheese Topping

Mix in a little Gruyère with your Parmesan cheese on top if you’re a fan of a more complex cheesy flavor.

Leftover Magic

This recipe is ideal for holiday leftovers, especially the turkey from your Thanksgiving or Christmas meal.

What to Serve with Ina Garten Turkey Tetrazzini

Fresh Green Salad

You can never go wrong with a fresh green salad alongside turkey tetrazzini, which ensures some crisp and light flavors on your plate.

Consider using arugula or spinach, and toss it with some olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper for a simple dressing.

This not only adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the main dish but also adds nutritional balance.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread with turkey tetrazzini is a classic combo that you will find both satisfying and easy to prepare.

A warm and crusty baguette with a garlic butter spread can complement the creamy, cheesy textures of the tetrazzini effortlessly.

It soaks up the delicious sauce while adding a flavorful crunch to each bite.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you feel adventurous and would like to try something new, roast some Brussels sprouts.

A little olive oil, salt, and pepper is all you need before placing them in the oven to caramelize.

They bring an earthy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the rich turkey dish.

Sautéed Kale with Garlic

For an unexpected twist, sautéing kale with garlic is an option that will surprise and delight.

The vibrant green of the kale and the aromatic touch of garlic offer a unique pairing with turkey tetrazzini.

This simple side is nutritious and adds a pop of color to your table.

Cranberry Sauce

Adding a touch of holiday flavor, cranberry sauce offers a tangy, fruity element that works well with turkey tetrazzini.

It adds a bit of sweetness and acidity that balances out the creamy richness of the main dish.

Plus, it’s an easy way to bring a festive feel to your meal!

Variations and Substitutions

Cheese Options

You can try substituting Swiss cheese with cheddar or gouda for a richer flavor.

Parmesan can be swapped for pecorino or asiago for a different twist.

Try mixing cheeses for a complex and hearty taste.

Pasta Choices

If you’re out of thin spaghetti, use any long pasta like fettuccine or linguine.

Gluten-free pasta works well, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Protein Alternatives

Chicken can be a convenient swap for turkey, providing a familiar flavor.

You can use leftover rotisserie chicken if you’re in a pinch.

Vegetable Add-ins

Mushrooms are classic, but you could add bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients.

Frozen peas are an easy addition for a pop of color and sweetness.

Sauce Variations

If you’re out of heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or milk with a bit of flour to thicken.

Adding a bit of white wine to the sauce brings a depth that’s hard to resist!

Topping Ideas

Crushed croutons can be swapped with breadcrumbs for a crunchy top.

For even more texture, try a sprinkle of chopped almonds or walnuts.

How to Store Leftover Ina Garten Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe

Wrap any leftover Turkey Tetrazzini securely so it stays fresh in your refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.

An airtight container works best to lock in the flavors and prevent it from absorbing other odors.

Freeze for Later

If you want to save it for a longer period, freezing is a great option.

Portion the Turkey Tetrazzini into single-serving sizes and place them in freezer-safe bags or containers.

Label each with the date to keep track of its freshness in the freezer for up to two months.

Thawing Tips

When you are ready to eat your frozen leftovers, thaw them in the fridge overnight.

Make sure to plan ahead since this will ensure even defrosting and maintain flavor.

Avoid leaving it out on the counter, as this can promote bacteria growth.

Quick Storage Tips

If you’re using a dish with cheese, cover it tightly to keep it from drying out.

Adding a little extra sauce before storage helps maintain moisture during reheating.

Storing in individual portions means you only take out what you’ll eat, eliminating waste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Stirring Issues

You might face clumping if you don’t dissolve the flour well in cold water before adding it into the mixture.
Whisk thoroughly at a consistent pace when integrating flour to keep it smooth and lump-free.

Cooking Mushrooms

Sometimes we forget to give mushrooms the space they need to brown properly.
Cook them in batches if necessary, so they have a chance to absorb the butter and flavors!

Pasta Concerns

Another pitfall is having sticky pasta, which can ruin the texture of the dish.
To avoid this, generously salt the boiling water and toss the pasta with a bit of olive oil after draining.