Turkey Or Ham Tetrazzini
Turkey or ham tetrazzini combines tender cooked meat with creamy mushroom sauce, cheese, and pasta, creating a comforting, cheesy casserole perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced or chunked cooked turkey or ham ⓘ
- 8 oz. thin spaghetti, broken into 2-inch pieces ⓘ
- 4 Tbsp. butter or margarine ⓘ
- 3/4 cup sliced mushrooms ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp. chopped onion ⓘ
- 1 tall can evaporated milk ⓘ
- 1 can chicken broth ⓘ
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- pepper and salt to taste ⓘ
- dash of hot pepper sauce ⓘ
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley ⓘ
- 1/4 cup sliced ripe olives (optional) ⓘ
Instructions
- Saute the onions in butter or margarine, adding the sliced mushrooms.
- Add seasonings, then blend in chicken broth, stirring until smooth.
- Gradually add the evaporated milk, stirring until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Cook and drain the broken spaghetti until al dente.
- In a buttered, shallow casserole, mix the cooked turkey or ham with the cooked spaghetti.
- Pour the sauce over the mixture and blend together.
- Top with shredded sharp Cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for half an hour, until the top is lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream to the sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, use whole wheat spaghetti or zucchini noodles. Feel free to swap turkey or ham with cooked chicken or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian twist. Adding a pinch of garlic powder enhances the flavor without overpowering the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tetrazzini with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. A light vinaigrette pairs well, cutting through the creamy sauce. For a comforting meal, consider serving it alongside a warm bowl of 'Ala' Clam Chowder. Garnish with extra parsley for freshness.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the tetrazzini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can help restore creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey Or Ham Tetrazzini contains roughly 323 calories, with 15g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value) and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 643mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
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 frozen turkey or ham in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen turkey or ham. Just be sure to fully thaw it before dicing and adding it to the casserole. This will ensure even cooking and prevent excess moisture from affecting the dish's texture.
What can I substitute for the cheddar cheese?
If you want a different flavor, you can substitute the sharp cheddar with Monterey Jack or Gouda cheese for a milder taste. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based cheese that melts well, ensuring it complements the dish's flavors.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! To add more heat, increase the amount of hot pepper sauce or sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes. You can also add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick, adjusting the heat to your preference.
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).