Creamy & Comforting Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe: A Turkey Hunter’s Feast

By Derrick R. Stallings – HuntingOfficer.com

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of a successful turkey hunt. After the patience, the skill, and the thrill of the chase, the reward isn’t just in the hunt—it’s in the meal that follows. A freshly harvested wild turkey deserves a dish that does it justice, and Turkey Tetrazzini is the perfect way to celebrate the bounty of the season.

This rich, creamy pasta bake transforms your hard-earned wild turkey into a warm, comforting feast. Whether you’ve just bagged a gobbler in the spring woods or you’re using up leftovers from a fall hunt, this recipe brings out the best in your harvest. So, grab your fillet knife, prep that turkey, and let’s get cooking!

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Ingredients

For the Pasta & Protein:

• 12 oz spaghetti (or fettuccine, linguine, or egg noodles)
• 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken or turkey broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
3. Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics & Mushrooms

4. In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
5. Add the onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
6. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
7. Add the mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and golden brown.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

8. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir continuously for about 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste.
9. Slowly whisk in the chicken (or turkey) broth, making sure to dissolve any flour lumps.
10. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce.
11. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme.
12. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
13. Stir in ½ cup Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.

Step 4: Combine Everything

14. Add the cooked turkey to the sauce, stirring to coat it in the creamy goodness.
15. Gently fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring everything is well combined and coated in the sauce.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

16. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
17. Transfer the turkey and pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
18. Sprinkle the top evenly with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Prepare the Crunchy Topping

19. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter.
20. Evenly sprinkle the buttery breadcrumbs over the casserole.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

21. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
22. If you want an extra crispy top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end—just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

23. Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow everything to set.
24. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
25. Serve warm and dig into the creamy, cheesy deliciousness!

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Tips & Variations

• No turkey? Use cooked chicken instead!
• Want extra veggies? Toss in peas, spinach, or even roasted bell peppers.
• Prefer a lighter version? Swap out the heavy cream for more milk, and use whole wheat pasta.
• Make it ahead: Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, just add 10 extra minutes to the cooking time.