Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our Turkey Tetrazzini with spinach. This recipe is not only a breeze to prepare but also a heavenly treat for your taste buds. Imagine succulent, leftover turkey and spaghetti lovingly enveloped in a luscious spinach and mushroom sauce, crowned with a generous layer of golden-brown mozzarella cheese. It’s a pasta casserole that has earned its place as a beloved family favorite, especially on those hectic weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal.
But wait, it gets even better! You can plan ahead and create a stash of this freezer-friendly delight for future meals, making your life even more convenient.
This creamy turkey tetrazzini is not limited to post-holiday feasts. You can relish its deliciousness throughout the year. Simply prepare a batch of tender slow cooker turkey breast or roast a juicy turkey breast, then shred it to perfection for this scrumptious dish.
And if you find yourself with more leftover turkey, explore other delightful culinary adventures such as crafting a creamy turkey orzo soup, whipping up a batch of leftover turkey wild rice soup, or creating a delectable leftover turkey fried rice. The possibilities are endless, and your taste buds will thank you!
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Tips
- How to substitute the turkey:
Don’t fret if you’re out of turkey; you can effortlessly swap it out with cooked chicken. Simply follow the same recipe, using either leftover roast chicken or a convenient store-bought rotisserie chicken for equally mouthwatering results.
- How to customize:
Feel free to get creative and tailor your tetrazzini to your liking. If you have extra veggies lying around, like broccoli or cauliflower, toss them into the mix for an extra burst of flavour and nutrition.
- How to serve:
To elevate your turkey tetrazzini experience, serve it alongside some cheesy garlic dinner rolls or warm rosemary garlic focaccia bread. And don’t forget to balance the richness of the dish with a crisp and refreshing salad on the side. Your taste buds will thank you!
Turkey Tetrazzini with Spinach recipe video:
Turkey Tetrazzini with Spinach Ingredients and Instructions:
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces (340g) of linguine pasta
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces (225g) mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1. Prepare the Pasta:
- To start with, bring a big pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the linguine pasta following the package instructions until it’s just tender.
- After draining and rinsing with cool water, set aside.
Step 2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Roast the butter in a big pan over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant, and the onion turns translucent.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
- Add the fresh spinach leaves and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they wilt. Remove the skillet from heat.
Step 3. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, combine the chicken broth, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and dry white wine (if using).
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, and the cheese is fully melted.
- Season the sauce with dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to taste.
Step 4. Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooked turkey, cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, and the creamy sauce. Ensure everything is well coated.
Step 5. Bake the Tetrazzini:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish that has been buttered.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a delightful crunch.
Step 6. Bake and Garnish:
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden brown, and the casserole is bubbling.
- Take off from the oven and leave to cool for just a few minutes.
- To add colour and taste, garnish with freshly cut parsley.
Step 7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve your creamy Turkey Tetrazzini with Spinach while it’s hot, and relish a comforting and flavorful meal!
Chef’s Tips:
- If you don’t have turkey, you can substitute it with leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for an equally delicious alternative.
- For added flavour, consider adding a dash of nutmeg or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- This dish reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for leftovers. Store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the microwave or oven.
- Enjoy your Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini with Spinach!
Turkey Tetrazzini with Spinach Nutrition Information:
| Nutrition Facts | Amount Per Serving |
| Serving Size | 1 serving (1/6th of recipe) |
| Calories | 577 |
| Total Fat | 31g |
| – Saturated Fat | 17g |
| Cholesterol | 151mg |
| Sodium | 494mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 44g |
| – Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| – Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 30g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Turkey tetrazzini with spinach Health Benefits:
Delve into the goodness of Turkey Tetrazzini with Spinach and discover how this delightful dish can contribute to your well-being:
- Lean Protein Source: With shredded turkey as the star ingredient, this dish provides a generous amount of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as overall body function.
- Abundance of Vegetables: Packed with nutrient-rich vegetables like spinach and mushrooms, this recipe offers a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support immune health, skin vitality, and overall well-being.
- Whole Grain Goodness: By using linguine pasta, which is made from whole grains, this dish provides complex carbohydrates that offer sustained energy release, helping to keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods.
- Calcium-Rich Cheese: The addition of grated Parmesan cheese not only enhances the flavour but also provides a good dose of calcium, essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
- Heart-Healthy Ingredients: Ingredients like garlic, onion, and olive oil used in the recipe are known for their heart-healthy properties, including lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Moderate Indulgence: While this dish is creamy and comforting, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Opting for low-fat alternatives or reducing portion sizes can help keep calorie and fat intake in check.
- Versatile Nutritional Options: The recipe offers flexibility in ingredient choices, allowing for substitutions and additions based on personal preferences and dietary needs. For instance, incorporating whole grain pasta or adding extra vegetables can boost the dish’s nutritional profile even further.
- Homemade Goodness: By preparing this dish at home, you have control over the quality and quantity of ingredients, ensuring a healthier and more wholesome meal compared to store-bought or restaurant versions.
Incorporate Turkey Tetrazzini with Spinach into your meal rotation to enjoy its delicious Flavors while reaping the nutritional benefits it offers. It’s a satisfying and nourishing choice for both your body and your taste buds!
INSTRUCTIONS FOR STORING, FREEZING, AND MAKING AHEAD
- Storing Tetrazzini Before Baking:
If you want to prep your turkey tetrazzini in advance but hold off on baking, simply store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just cover it securely with aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
- Storing Tetrazzini After Baking:
After indulging in your turkey tetrazzini, you can keep any leftovers in the same pan, sealing it tightly with aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. Pop it in the refrigerator, and it will stay good for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat by covering with foil and placing it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until it’s heated through. Alternatively, you can use the air fryer (uncovered) at 350°F for 5-10 minutes or reheat it in the microwave for a few minutes.
- Freezing Tetrazzini Before or After Baking:
Whether you’ve prepared your turkey tetrazzini before or after baking, it’s freezer-friendly. Just wrap it up securely in foil and stash it in the freezer for up to 3 months. If you’re planning to freeze it before baking, consider using a disposable 9×13 aluminium pan for assembly.
- Reheating Frozen Tetrazzini:
To bring frozen uncooked turkey tetrazzini back to life, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then, simply follow the original recipe instructions for baking.
If you’ve frozen cooked tetrazzini, give it time to thaw in the refrigerator or on the kitchen counter. Once it’s thawed, cover it with aluminium foil and reheat in a 350°F oven for approximately 10 minutes, or until it’s wonderfully heated through. You can also opt for the air fryer (uncovered) at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or use the microwave for a quicker warm-up. Enjoy your turkey tetrazzini, freshly revived and as delectable as ever!