Imagine a dish that wraps you in warm, nostalgic comfort with every single bite - a recipe passed down through generations that transforms humble leftovers into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Grandpa Drew's Turkey Tetrazzini isn't just another casserole; it's a culinary time machine that transports you back to family dinners filled with love, laughter, and irresistible home cooking. Whether you're looking to breathe new life into leftover turkey or craving a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that promises to satisfy, this recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to meal!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 8 ounces spaghetti, cooked
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup grated cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, cooked spaghetti, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper, stirring carefully to ensure even seasoning throughout the casserole.
- Transfer the turkey and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese over the entire surface of the casserole, covering it completely.
- Distribute the breadcrumbs evenly across the top of the cheese layer, which will create a golden, crispy topping when baked.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let the tetrazzini rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh parsley or additional black pepper if desired.
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing and consistent texture.
- For extra flavor, consider sautéing some onions or mushrooms before adding them to the mixture.
- If using leftover turkey, make sure it's finely shredded for better distribution throughout the dish.
- Don't overcook the spaghetti - aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- For a crispy top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar or gruyère for unique flavor profiles.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 273kcal
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 67mg
