Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe with Campbell‘s Cream of Chicken Soup is a comforting, creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for using up leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or any holiday meal. Combining tender chunks of turkey with pasta, a creamy sauce made from Campbell’s cream of chicken soup, and plenty of cheese, this casserole is a family favorite. In this article, we’ll surely take you through the process of making turkey tetrazzini, discuss some helpful variations, and provide answers to common questions. By the end, you’ll be ready to serve up a warm and hearty dish everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe with Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup
To make turkey tetrazzini, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand, especially if you’ve just finished a holiday meal. The primary components of this dish are turkey, pasta, cheese, and a creamy sauce made from Campbell’s cream of chicken soup. Let’s break down the full list of ingredients:
- Cooked turkey (3 cups): You can use leftover roasted turkey, but feel free to substitute with chicken if turkey isn’t available.
- Campbell’s cream of chicken soup (2 cans): This is the backbone of the creamy sauce. It adds flavor and a smooth texture without the need to make a roux.
- Pasta (12 oz): Spaghetti or linguine work well, but you can experiment with other pasta types.
- Shredded cheese (1 ½ cups): A blend of cheddar and parmesan works beautifully for that rich, cheesy goodness.
- Mushrooms (optional, 1 cup): Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy depth to the dish.
- Broth or milk (1 cup): Helps thin the soup and create a creamy consistency.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley are commonly used.
Why Use Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup to make Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe?
One of the reasons this dish is so simple is because of the use of Campbell’s condensed cream of chicken soup. Instead of spending time creating a homemade béchamel sauce, Campbell’s soup offers a quick, flavorful alternative. Its creamy consistency coats the pasta and turkey perfectly, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.
Rich anchor text suggestion: When exploring other creamy dishes, Campbell’s soup is also used in recipes like Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe for similar comforting meals.
Cooking Instructions to Make Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe with Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup
1. Prepare the Pasta
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook it al dente, as it will continue to soften while baking in the casserole. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Pro Tip: Try experimenting with pasta variations, such as whole wheat or gluten-free options, if desired. In case you’re looking for an easy way to use leftover ingredients in a creative dish, take a look at this guide on Sourdough Discard Recipes for inspiration on making use of pantry staples.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté the mushrooms until they are golden brown. This step is optional, but mushrooms add a delicious umami flavor to the dish. You can also add onions or garlic for more depth.
3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine two cans of Campbell’s cream of chicken soup with milk or broth. Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley to season the sauce. Then stir in some of the shredded cheese to make the sauce extra rich and cheesy.
4. Combine the Ingredients
Add the cooked pasta and turkey to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables (if using). Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and stir everything together until well coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
5. Add the Topping
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of the casserole. For added texture, you can also add breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
6. Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the turkey tetrazzini for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
Variations on Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe with Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup
While the classic turkey tetrazzini recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it based on your personal preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:
1. Low-Carb Option
If you’re following a low-carb diet, try swapping the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. This will reduce the carbohydrate content while still providing a delicious, creamy dish.
2. Vegetarian Version
For a meat-free version, you can simply omit the turkey and substitute with extra vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, or cauliflower. You can also use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken soup to enhance the flavor.
Rich anchor text suggestion: For more ideas on how to incorporate broccoli into your meals, check out this Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe for a refreshing and nutritious side dish.
3. Spicy Kick
If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. This will give the turkey tetrazzini a little heat and extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions of Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe with Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup
Turkey tetrazzini pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions to complete your meal:
- Garlic bread: A warm, crispy slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Green salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of the casserole.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasting vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus adds a healthy and flavorful side to the meal.
Rich anchor text suggestion: When considering how to make the most of leftover chicken or turkey, try brining the meat beforehand for extra juiciness. Here’s a great Chicken Brine Recipe you can use.
Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe with Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup
1. Can I Make Turkey Tetrazzini Ahead of Time?
Yes, turkey tetrazzini is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can prepare the entire casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it with foil while baking to prevent it from drying out.
2. What Other Soups Can I Use Instead of Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup?
In case you prefer a different flavor profile or have dietary restrictions, you can use cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or even a homemade béchamel sauce in place of the cream of chicken soup.
3. Can I Freeze Turkey Tetrazzini?
Absolutely! Turkey tetrazzini freezes well. After assembling the casserole, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
4. What Is the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
To reheat leftovers, place the turkey tetrazzini in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat it in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions if you’re in a hurry.
5. How Do I Prevent My Casserole from Drying Out in the Oven?
To prevent the turkey tetrazzini from drying out, be sure to cover the casserole with foil while it bakes. You can also add a bit more broth or milk to the sauce if it seems too thick before baking.
Conclusion : Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe with Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup
Last but not least, Turkey tetrazzini is a classic, comforting dish that’s perfect for using up leftovers and feeding a crowd. With its creamy sauce made from Campbell’s cream of chicken soup, tender turkey, and cheesy topping, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking to make a traditional version or experiment with variations like a low-carb or vegetarian option, this dish is versatile enough to suit everyone’s tastes.
Finally, for more inspiration on using leftovers or preparing delicious dishes, check out this What Can You Do with Sourdough Discard for creative ways to reduce waste and enhance your meals.