Fettucine With Smoked Turkey
Creamy fettucine with smoked turkey and a hint of nutmeg offers rich flavors and a comforting texture, perfect for a cozy dinner for four.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp. butter ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. minced shallot ⓘ
- 2 tsp. coarsely ground black peppercorns
- 2/3 c. dry white wine ⓘ
- 2 c. heavy cream ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. nutmeg ⓘ
- 3/4 lb. smoked turkey breast, cut into julienne ⓘ
- 3/4 lb. fettucine, cooked al dente and drained ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh chives
- freshly grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Melt butter in a heavy skillet over medium heat and sauté shallots until soft, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add coarsely ground black peppercorns and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add dry white wine and boil until almost no liquid remains in skillet, about 2 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream, nutmeg, and smoked turkey, and heat for about 5 minutes until sauce thickens. Do not boil.
- Combine hot fettucine with the sauce and toss to mix thoroughly.
- Serve on warmed plates and sprinkle with chopped fresh chives. Pass grated Parmesan cheese separately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, which will still give a creamy texture. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be used if chives are unavailable. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the shallots. This dish is also great with chicken or shrimp instead of smoked turkey, making it versatile for various tastes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious fettucine with a crisp green salad dressed in vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or a warm baguette pairs nicely to soak up the creamy sauce. Consider complementing the meal with a light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, that echoes the wine used in the dish for a harmonious dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra cream to loosen the sauce, and heat gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it may make the pasta mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fettucine With Smoked Turkey contains roughly 1123 calories, with 40g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 94g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (79% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, while fettucine is traditional, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni. Just ensure to cook the pasta al dente to maintain texture when mixed with the sauce.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine with the reheated sauce. This will keep the pasta from becoming overcooked and soggy.
What can I serve as a side dish?
A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette makes a perfect side, adding brightness to the rich pasta. Alternatively, roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus can complement the meal beautifully, making for a well-rounded dinner.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).