Southern Living Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe with Cream Cheese

When it comes to soul-satisfying comfort food, few dishes rival the creamy, savory delight of a well-made Turkey Tetrazzini. This Southern Living-inspired version elevates the traditional casserole with the rich, velvety addition of cream cheese, creating a dish that’s both nostalgic and indulgent.

For repurposing your leftover turkey, this recipe offers a perfect blend of Southern charm and culinary finesse. With its creamy texture, savory depth, and customizable nature, it’s a dish that invites creativity while delivering consistent satisfaction.

What is Turkey Tetrazzini?

Turkey Tetrazzini is a baked pasta casserole traditionally made with diced poultry (usually turkey or chicken), mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, often topped with cheese or breadcrumbs.

The dish is named after Italian opera star Luisa Tetrazzini and is believed to have originated in San Francisco in the early 20th century.

The Southern Living version adds a regional twist by incorporating cream cheese into the sauce, resulting in a richer, more decadent flavor profile.

This variation has become a staple in many Southern households, especially during the holiday season when leftover turkey is abundant.

Why Add Cream Cheese?

Adding cream cheese to Turkey Tetrazzini enhances the dish in several ways:

• Creaminess: It creates a luxuriously smooth sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.
• Tanginess: The subtle tang of cream cheese balances the richness of the other dairy components.
• Stability: Cream cheese helps the sauce maintain a creamy texture even after baking.

This ingredient transforms a classic into a gourmet comfort dish worthy of any dinner table.

Ingredients for Southern Living Turkey Tetrazzini with Cream Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this indulgent casserole:

Protein & Pasta

• 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
• 12 oz spaghetti or linguine, cooked al dente

Vegetables

• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)

Dairy & Cream Base

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese

Spices & Seasoning

• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning

Topping

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed buttery crackers
• 2 tbsp melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside. Avoid overcooking, as the pasta will continue to cook in the oven.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion in a bit of olive oil until translucent. Add garlic and mushrooms, cooking until softened and fragrant.

4. Make the Cream Cheese Sauce

Reduce heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until melted. Add milk, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and thyme.

5. Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, turkey, peas (if using), and sautéed vegetables. Pour the cream cheese sauce over the mixture and toss gently to coat.

6. Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.

7. Add the Topping

Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top.

8. Bake

Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

9. Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips for the Best Turkey Tetrazzini

• Use leftover Thanksgiving turkey for a delicious post-holiday meal.
• Swap the pasta: Try egg noodles, fettuccine, or even penne for a twist.
• Add vegetables: Spinach, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes can add color and nutrition.
• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Freeze for later: This dish freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Turkey Tetrazzini with:

• Fresh garden salad with vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls
• Roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans
• Cranberry sauce for a holiday touch

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Swaps

• Chicken instead of turkey
• Ham for a smoky flavor
• Tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version

Dairy Alternatives

• Greek yogurt instead of sour cream
• Plant-based cream cheese for a dairy-free option

Gluten-Free Options

• Use gluten-free pasta
• Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers

Storing and Reheating

Refrigeration

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
• Microwave individual portions with a splash of milk to retain creaminess.

FAQs About

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful substitute that works perfectly in this recipe.

2. How can I make this dish ahead of time?

Prepare the entire casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

3. Can I freeze Turkey Tetrazzini?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Assemble and freeze before baking, or freeze leftovers in individual portions for easy reheating.

4. What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can substitute ricotta cheese, mascarpone, or a thick béchamel sauce, though the flavor and texture will vary.

5. How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Cover with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then uncover to brown the top. Adding a splash of milk before reheating also helps retain moisture.