Creamy Leftover Turkey Pasta Bake: The Ultimate Easy Tetrazzini Casserole
Say goodbye to boring holiday leftovers and hello to a sensational meal that the entire family will adore! This creamy Turkey Pasta Bake is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary savior when you find yourself with an abundance of leftover turkey from your holiday feast. Transforming simple ingredients into a rich, comforting, and utterly delicious dish, this one-pot wonder makes repurposing your turkey a joy rather than a chore. With just a few pantry staples and some fresh additions, you’ll create a hearty dinner that’s both effortless to prepare and deeply satisfying.
Imagine tender, freshly roasted turkey, perfectly seasoned and shredded, lovingly tossed with al dente linguine. Now, picture all of that smothered in a lusciously rich and creamy sauce, infused with earthy mushrooms and generously blanketed with bubbling, melty cheese. This isn’t just a meal; it’s the epitome of stick-to-your-ribs comfort food. Cheesy, hearty, and incredibly flavorful, this casserole proves that leftovers can be even better the second time around.
Having a versatile repertoire of recipes for using up holiday remnants is always a smart move, and this turkey pasta bake fits the bill beautifully. Instead of serving the same meal twice, you can magically transform your holiday turkey into something entirely new and exciting. It’s a fantastic way to extend the holiday cheer and minimize food waste, turning delicious roasted turkey into another memorable family dinner.
Beyond this fantastic turkey pasta bake, there are countless creative ways to utilize leftover turkey. If you’re looking for more inspiration, consider whipping up a savory Turkey Reuben Sandwich, an elegant Turkey Oscar, or delightful Turkey Salad Sliders. Each of these recipes offers a unique and delicious twist, ensuring your turkey leftovers never go to waste.
Elevating Leftover Turkey: The Magic of Tetrazzini
When you embark on a quest for “turkey pasta” recipes, you’ll often encounter a plethora of options utilizing ground turkey. While those ground turkey pasta bakes are undoubtedly delicious and certainly make for a fine meal, this particular recipe focuses on the real star of post-holiday cooking: actual leftover roasted turkey. There’s a distinct difference in flavor and texture when you use succulent pieces of pre-cooked turkey, which this recipe embraces wholeheartedly.
This time of year, after the big holiday feasts, the goal isn’t just to cook, but to creatively repurpose. This recipe shines precisely because it takes those delectable remnants and transforms them into an entirely new, comforting experience. It offers a wonderful change of pace from the more traditional tomato-based pasta bakes, delivering a creamy, savory sensation that feels fresh and exciting, even when using familiar ingredients. It’s the ideal solution for turning holiday abundance into an easy weeknight meal, preventing food fatigue and ensuring every last morsel of that holiday bird is enjoyed.
Essential Ingredients for Your Turkey Pasta Bake
This delectable Turkey Pasta Bake relies on a balanced blend of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, coming together to create its signature creamy texture and rich flavor. You will find the complete measurements and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card located at the bottom of this post, but here’s a closer look at what makes this dish so special:
- Linguine – While linguine offers a delightful texture, feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer or have readily available in your pantry. Penne pasta, elbow macaroni, or even rotini would make excellent choices, holding the creamy sauce beautifully. For a healthier twist, whole wheat pasta can also be used without compromising the dish’s comforting essence.
- Leftover Turkey – The star of our show! I used 3 cups of shredded leftover turkey, which typically comes from a holiday roast. The pre-cooked nature of leftover turkey adds an incredible depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate. If turkey isn’t available, shredded leftover chicken or even a rotisserie chicken can be substituted with equally delicious results.
- Cream of Chicken Soup – This humble pantry staple is key to the creamy base of our casserole. One can of cream of chicken soup, any brand you prefer, provides a rich, savory foundation that blends seamlessly with other ingredients. It’s a classic shortcut that makes this dish incredibly easy.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup – Complementing the chicken soup, one can of cream of mushroom soup adds another layer of umami and creaminess. Again, any brand works perfectly fine here, contributing to the luscious texture and depth of flavor.
- Sour Cream – A generous cup of sour cream is crucial for adding a delightful tang and extra richness to the sauce, cutting through the savory notes and balancing the flavors. In a pinch, plain Greek yogurt can be used for a similar tang and thickness, or you can stir in a little cream cheese for an even more decadent and velvety sauce.
- Mushrooms – Freshly sliced mushrooms are wonderful for their earthy flavor and pleasant texture. However, don’t hesitate to use canned mushrooms if that’s what you have on hand; they will still contribute to the overall savory profile. You could also try sautéing them lightly before adding to deepen their flavor.
- Dried Parsley – A touch of dry parsley not only adds a subtle herbaceous note but also introduces a lovely pop of color to the creamy sauce. If you have fresh parsley in your fridge, chopping it up and adding it will provide an even brighter, fresher flavor. Fresh basil would also be a fantastic aromatic addition.
- Garlic Cloves – I recommend using two minced fresh garlic cloves for their pungent, aromatic kick, which is essential for building a robust flavor base. While fresh is always best, jarred minced garlic can certainly be used if it’s more convenient.
- Chicken Broth – Chicken stock or broth helps to thin the creamy sauce to the perfect consistency, ensuring it coats the pasta and turkey beautifully. You can use any kind of broth – beef or vegetable broth would also work – but I typically opt for the low-sodium option to better control the overall saltiness of the dish.
- Frozen Peas – These vibrant green peas are a welcome addition, providing a burst of color, a hint of sweetness, and a pleasant tender-crisp texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy components. They also boost the vegetable content of the dish.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Mozzarella is a star here, offering incredible meltiness and a mild, creamy flavor. I incorporate a portion of the cheese directly into the casserole mixture for internal creaminess and reserve the rest for a golden, bubbly topping. While mozzarella is traditional, any good melting white cheese like Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a blend of Italian cheeses would be a delicious substitute. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top just before serving adds an extra layer of sharp, salty flavor.
- Fresh Parsley – An optional but highly recommended garnish, a little fresh parsley chopped and sprinkled over the finished bake adds a final touch of vibrant color and a fresh, herbaceous aroma, making the dish even more appealing.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to taste, allowing you to fine-tune the flavors to your preference. Remember to adjust based on the saltiness of your broth and canned soups.
Crafting Your Perfect Turkey Pasta Casserole: Step-by-Step
Creating this satisfying turkey pasta casserole is surprisingly simple, designed to be a hassle-free meal that brings comfort to your table with minimal effort. Follow these straightforward steps for a delicious result:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when your casserole is assembled. While the oven heats, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your linguine and cook it according to package directions until it reaches a perfect al dente stage – tender but still firm to the bite. This is crucial for a pasta bake, as the pasta will continue to cook slightly in the oven. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the creamy, savory components of your sauce. This includes the shredded leftover turkey, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, sliced mushrooms, dried parsley, minced garlic cloves, chicken broth, and two cups of mozzarella cheese. Remember to hold back the frozen peas and the remaining cup of mozzarella cheese for later steps!
Mix all these ingredients thoroughly until they are completely combined and form a thick, uniform, and wonderfully fragrant sauce. Ensure that the turkey and mushrooms are well-distributed throughout the creamy mixture.
Next, gently stir the cooked linguine into the creamy sauce mixture. Make sure every strand of pasta is coated generously with the delicious, rich sauce. This ensures maximum flavor in every bite.
Finally, add the frozen peas to the bowl. Stir them in gently until they are evenly distributed throughout the pasta and sauce mixture. The heat from the other ingredients will slightly thaw them, and they’ll finish cooking in the oven.
Transfer this luscious mixture into a prepared 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. A light coating of non-stick cooking spray on the dish will prevent sticking and make for easier cleanup.
Generously top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella cheese. This will create a beautiful golden, bubbly crust as it bakes, adding another layer of cheesy goodness.
*Pro Tip: For fewer dishes and a more efficient cooking process, consider cooking your pasta in a large cast iron Dutch oven. Once the pasta is al dente, remove it, then prepare and mix your sauce and pasta in the same Dutch oven before topping with cheese and transferring it directly to the oven to bake. This ingenious method streamlines your cleanup significantly!
Bake the casserole uncovered for approximately 25 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the entire dish is heated through and bubbling deliciously around the edges. This indicates that all the flavors have melded together perfectly.
Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven. If desired, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an added touch of freshness and color. Serve hot and watch it disappear!
This turkey pasta bake is not only delicious fresh from the oven but also makes for excellent leftovers. It will keep beautifully for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can simply cover the baking pan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For longer storage, this casserole freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months. When reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake covered until heated through, uncovering for the last 10-15 minutes to allow the cheese to crisp up.
Love It? Pin It for Later!
If this delightful turkey noodle casserole recipe has captured your heart and appetite, don’t let it slip away! Make sure to save it for future culinary adventures by pinning it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board. It’s the perfect way to keep this comforting dish handy whenever leftover turkey calls!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Turkey Tetrazzini
This section addresses common queries you might have about this classic, comforting dish, helping you become a tetrazzini expert:
- Why is it called tetrazzini? A quick search reveals that this beloved pasta dish is thought to have been named after an Italian opera singer named Luisa Tetrazzini, who was incredibly popular in the early 1900s. Legend has it that the chef at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco, where she often performed, created this dish in her honor. A delicious tribute indeed!
- What exactly is tetrazzini made of? Over time, “Tetrazzini” has evolved to generally describe a rich, creamy pasta dish that typically features poultry (like turkey or chicken) or seafood (such as tuna), mushrooms, and peas, all bound together in a luscious white cream sauce, often topped with cheese and baked until bubbly. It’s essentially a comforting casserole with Italian-American roots.
- What are the best accompaniments for Tetrazzini? Given how hearty and complete this turkey casserole is on its own, it doesn’t strictly require much else. However, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would be a delightful addition, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bake. A side of crusty garlic bread is also always a welcome companion, perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce.
- Can I prepare this Turkey Pasta Bake ahead of time? Absolutely! This casserole is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can assemble the entire dish, including topping it with cheese, then cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while your oven preheats, then bake as directed, potentially adding a few extra minutes to account for its chilled starting temperature.
- How do I properly store and reheat leftovers? As mentioned above, store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat individual portions, use the microwave until heated through. For larger amounts, cover the baking dish with foil and reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed. Uncover for the last few minutes if you want to crisp up the cheese topping again.
Creative Substitutions for Your Turkey Pasta Bake
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing for various substitutions based on what you have on hand or what your family prefers. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!
- Alternative Proteins: If you don’t have any leftover turkey, this recipe is incredibly forgiving. You can easily use leftover cooked chicken, such as shredded rotisserie chicken or baked chicken breasts. For a delicious seafood twist, consider making a Tuna Tetrazzini, which is a classic variation. Cooked ham or even shredded pork could also work well for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, consider adding extra mushrooms, cooked lentils, or plant-based chicken substitutes.
- Vegetable Variations: The frozen peas add a nice color and texture, but you can certainly swap them out or add other vegetables. Green beans, diced bell peppers (sautéed slightly first), fresh baby spinach (stirred in at the end to wilt), or even steamed broccoli florets cut into small pieces would be delicious additions. Chopped carrots or celery could also be sautéed with the mushrooms for added depth.
- Adding a Kick of Spice: If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce mixture. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or serve with a dash of hot sauce on top for individual servings.
- Mushroom Options: While fresh sliced mushrooms offer the best texture and flavor, canned mushrooms are a perfectly acceptable and convenient alternative if fresh aren’t available. Just be sure to drain them well before adding.
- Cheese Choices: Mozzarella is fantastic for its melty quality, but other creamy white cheeses work beautifully. Consider using Monterey Jack, shredded provolone, a blend of Italian cheeses, or even a little sharp white cheddar for a more pronounced flavor. A final sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese before baking also adds a lovely salty crust.
- Soup Substitutions: If you don’t have both cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soup, you can often use two cans of one or the other, or experiment with cream of celery soup for a slightly different flavor. The key is the creamy base they provide.
Helpful Tips & Tricks for a Perfect Turkey Pasta Bake
Achieving casserole perfection is easy with these handy tips and tricks:
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This is a golden rule for any pasta bake or casserole. Pasta will continue to absorb liquid and cook further in the oven. Cooking it al dente initially ensures it remains pleasantly firm and doesn’t turn mushy in the finished dish.
- Embrace Canned Soups: Don’t underestimate the power of canned cream soups in this recipe. They are specifically chosen for their convenience and ability to create a consistently creamy, flavorful sauce without the need for making a roux from scratch. Keeping a few cans of cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soup in your pantry means you’re always ready to whip up this comforting meal.
- Leftover Turkey is Ideal: This recipe truly shines when made with leftover roasted turkey. The flavors from your holiday bird are already developed and infused, adding a depth to the casserole that’s unparalleled. It’s the perfect, ingenious way to transform holiday abundance into a completely new, delicious meal, giving you a well-deserved break from extensive cooking.
- Season Generously: Taste your sauce mixture before adding the pasta and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remember that canned soups and broth can vary in sodium content, so a final taste test is always a good idea.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you’ve added the pasta and peas, mix just enough to combine everything evenly. Overmixing can break down the pasta and make it gummy.
- Golden Brown Top: For that irresistible, bubbly, golden-brown cheese topping, ensure your oven is at the correct temperature and bake until the visual cues are met. If your cheese isn’t browning enough, you can turn on the broiler for a minute or two, but watch it very closely to prevent burning.
Looking for more creative ways to avoid food waste after a big feast? Explore all sorts of innovative methods to Repurpose Holiday Leftovers (and remember, it’s not just for the turkey!)
Discover More Delicious Turkey Recipes
If you’re as big a fan of turkey as we are, you’ll love these additional great turkey recipes that go beyond the usual holiday fare:
- Turkey Reuben (also known as The Rachel) – pictured above, a fantastic savory sandwich!
- Hearty Turkey Noodle Soup – perfect for warming up on a chilly day, especially with leftover turkey carcass.
- How to Make Flavorful Turkey Stock – a foundational recipe for countless dishes.
- How to Bake Turkey in the Oven (and master homemade turkey gravy from scratch!) – your guide to a perfect roast.
- Smoked Turkey on the Traeger – for those who love a smoky, rich flavor.
- Spicy Sausage Ground Turkey Pasta Sauce – a zesty option for ground turkey.
This leftover turkey pasta recipe is truly a must-have, especially during the busy holiday season and beyond. Why not grant yourself the gift of convenience and enjoy two incredible meals from a single roast? We understand how hectic life can be, so add this delightful recipe for turkey tetrazzini to your repertoire. Rest assured, your family and friends will be wonderfully fed and happy, not just once, but twice, with this versatile and deeply satisfying dish!
LIKE THIS RECIPE?
Don’t forget to give it a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star rating and
leave a comment below the recipe!
Print Recipe
Turkey Pasta Bake (with Leftover Turkey)
It’s great with leftover chicken, too!
Equipment
-
AmazonBasics Enameled Cast Iron Covered Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Blue
-
9×13 Pyrex Baking Dish with a Lid
-
Glass Batter Bowl
Ingredients
- 16 ounces linguine (1 pound package), cooked al dente
- 3 cups leftover turkey shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup fresh white mushrooms sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese divided
- Fresh Parsley for garnish, optional
- Salt & Pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients except the peas, and linguine, reserving 2 cups of mozzarella cheese.
-
Mix until completely combined, then stir in the peas and linguine.
-
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining 2 cups of mozzarella cheese.
-
Bake uncovered for 25 minutes or until golden brown and heated through.
-
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
*Tip – prepare your pasta in a cast iron Dutch oven, remove it, mix up the sauce and put the pasta bake in to bake. Fewer dishes!