Name: Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 1 pound cremini mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup small chopped shallots or yellow onion; 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped; 1/3 cup all purpose flour; 2 cups chicken broth or stock; 2 cups whole milk; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 2-3 tablespoons dry sherry; 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 3/4 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano; 3/4 cup frozen peas; 3 cups shredded cooked turkey breast; 1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley, plus additional for garnish; 12 ounces dry linguine or spaghetti, snapped in half; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup unseasoned Panko breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 4 reviews

If you have any leftover turkey just waiting to be transformed into something extraordinary, this Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe is an absolute must-try. Picture tender shredded turkey mingling with earthy mushrooms, sweet peas, and a luscious, creamy Parmesan sauce, all baked under a crunchy golden topping. It’s comfort food elevated to a whole new level of warmth and flavor, perfect for cozy dinners or sharing with loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pot filled with creamy light beige sauce with small black specks, a wooden whisk handle marked

The magic of this Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe comes from its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role—from the rich butter and savory mushrooms building depth, to the fresh thyme and garlic bringing bright herbal notes. The creamy sauce, juicy turkey, and perfectly cooked pasta all come together beautifully for a dish that’s as tasty as it is comforting.

Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, divided): Adds richness and helps build layers of flavor in the sauce and topping.

Cremini mushrooms (1 pound, sliced): Offer a meaty, earthy element that perfectly complements the turkey.
Shallots or yellow onion (1 cup, chopped): Provides a subtle sweetness and depth to the base of the sauce.
Garlic (2 cloves, finely chopped): Brings aromatic warmth and a touch of sharpness.

Fresh thyme leaves (1 teaspoon, chopped): Adds herbal brightness, balancing the creaminess perfectly.
All-purpose flour (1/3 cup): Essential for thickening the luscious sauce.
Chicken broth or stock (2 cups): Adds savory body and moisture to the sauce.

Whole milk (2 cups): Creates a creamy texture without overpowering flavors.
Heavy cream (1 1/2 cups): Makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and decadent.
Dry sherry (2-3 tablespoons): Introduces a subtle depth and slight sweetness to balance richness.

Ground nutmeg (1/8 teaspoon): Provides a gentle, warming spice note.
Parmigiano Reggiano (3/4 cup grated, plus 1/4 cup for topping): Infuses savory, umami flavor and helps bind the sauce.
Frozen peas (3/4 cup): Add vibrant color and a pop of natural sweetness.

Shredded cooked turkey breast (3 cups): The star protein, tender and ready to soak up the sauce.
Italian parsley (1/4 cup chopped, plus extra for garnish): Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes.
Dry linguine or spaghetti (12 ounces, snapped in half): Perfect pasta to hold onto the creamy sauce.

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Key to seasoning everything just right.
Unseasoned Panko breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Create the irresistible crunchy topping.

How to Make Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Cook the Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F and butter a large casserole dish. Then, boil the pasta in salted water until just al dente; you want it to have a bit of bite since it will cook further in the oven. Drain it thoroughly so it doesn’t dilute the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms and Aromatics

In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add the sliced cremini mushrooms seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until the mushrooms release their juices and almost dry up, about five minutes. Stir in the chopped shallots or onions, cooking a few more minutes until soft and golden. Then add garlic and thyme; cook just until fragrant—this builds an irresistible flavor base.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Remove the mushroom mixture and set it aside. In the same pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter, then whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for a minute or two until bubbly. Gradually add chicken broth, milk, heavy cream, and sherry while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper—this mixture transforms into a silky, flavorful sauce that coats the back of your spoon.

Step 4: Combine Main Ingredients

Fold the mushroom mixture back into the sauce along with peas, shredded turkey, chopped parsley, and 3/4 cup of grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Adjust seasoning as needed. Finally, gently stir in the cooked pasta, ensuring every strand is delightfully coated.

Step 5: Assemble and Add the Topping

Transfer the mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Mix melted butter with Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of black pepper, then sprinkle it evenly over the top to create that classic crunchy finish that makes Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe so irresistible.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Place the casserole on a baking sheet and bake for about 25 minutes until the topping is crisp and golden and the sauce is bubbling. Keep an eye on the crumbs halfway through and cover with foil if they brown too quickly. Let it rest for a few minutes once out of the oven to allow the sauce to thicken before serving.

How to Serve Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe

In a white rectangular dish on a white marbled surface, a creamy noodle casserole is shown with visible layers. The bottom layer is spaghetti noodles coated in a thick white sauce mixed with green peas and dark mushroom slices. On top, the casserole is covered with a golden brown crumb topping that has small green herb bits scattered throughout. A silver serving spoon is lifting a portion from the dish, showing the creamy texture of the noodles and sauce beneath the topping. The photo has a close-up focus on the casserole with a soft background and a woman's hand holding the spoon photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped Italian parsley immediately before serving adds a vibrant pop of green and a fresh herbal note that brightens the rich sauce. You can also add a light dusting of extra Parmigiano Reggiano for an even cheesier finish.

Side Dishes

This decadent Turkey Tetrazzini stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables to balance the creamy casserole. A crusty bread or garlic bread also complements the dish perfectly, helping you soak up every delicious bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist, serve Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe in individual ramekins topped with fresh herbs and breadcrumbs for a personalized touch. Or use colorful ceramic bowls to bring warmth and inviting color to your table. Leftovers can be scooped into small, buttered baking dishes and reheated for an equally comforting second round.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Turkey Tetrazzini tastes fantastic the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, ensuring you reheat gently to retain the creamy texture.

Freezing

You can freeze Turkey Tetrazzini for up to two months. To do so, assemble but don’t bake it. Wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding extra time if needed until piping hot.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350 degrees F for 15-20 minutes to evenly warm without drying out. You can also microwave single servings, covering loosely and stirring halfway to maintain creaminess and avoid uneven heating.

FAQs

Can I make Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe with chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Cooked shredded chicken works just as well and will deliver the same cozy flavors. It’s a great swap if turkey isn’t on hand.

What can I substitute for dry sherry?

If you don’t have dry sherry, use a splash of white wine, dry vermouth, or even apple cider vinegar diluted with water. Each offers a slightly different flavor but will keep the sauce balanced.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream?

Heavy cream gives the sauce its rich, velvety texture, but you can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the sauce won’t be quite as decadent.

Can I make Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce and gluten-free pasta. Also, ensure your breadcrumbs are gluten-free or use crushed nuts for the topping.

How do I keep the breadcrumb topping crispy?

Make sure the topping is evenly coated with melted butter before baking. Avoid covering the casserole too early in the oven to allow the breadcrumbs to toast nicely. If they brown too fast, cover lightly with foil without pressing down on the crumbs.

Final Thoughts

This Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe is a soul-warming celebration of simple ingredients transformed into an indulgent, comforting dish. Whether you’re repurposing leftovers or craving a hearty family meal, it’s sure to become a favorite in your rotation. Give it a try—you’ll love how effortlessly satisfying it is!