Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe with Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup: A Comrehensive Guide

Turkey Tetrazzini made with Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup is a timeless American favorite that brings comfort and a sense of nostalgia to any meal. This rich, creamy casserole blends tender turkey, pasta, and a smooth, flavorful sauce crafted from Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup. It’s the perfect way to repurpose leftover turkey, making it a great choice for your post-holiday meals. With its mix of basic ingredients and the ease of using Campbell’s soup, this dish is quick to prepare and guaranteed to please. Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or bringing a dish to a potluck, Turkey Tetrazzini will captivate everyone with its hearty, homey flavor.

The History of Turkey Tetrazzini: A Timeless Comfort Food

Turkey Tetrazzini has a fascinating history. The dish is believed to have been created in the early 20th century, around 1908, at the famed Erich Restaurant in San Francisco. The name “Tetrazzini” is said to be a tribute to the Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini, who was performing in the city at the time.

The dish originally used veal and was served with a rich cream sauce. Over time, people began substituting turkey or chicken, making the dish even more accessible. Today, Turkey Tetrazzini remains a beloved casserole that can be found in kitchens across the country, particularly during Thanksgiving when leftover turkey is a staple.

Ingredients for the Perfect Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe with Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup

To make a perfect Turkey Tetrazzini with Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked turkey (shredded or diced): You can use leftover turkey or cook fresh turkey for this dish.
• 8 oz pasta: Traditional recipes use spaghetti, but you can opt for egg noodles or penne for variety.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup: This is the base for the creamy sauce that binds everything together.
• 1/2 cup milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that melty, gooey texture.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For extra flavor.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Adds a crunchy topping to the casserole.
• 1/4 cup butter: Helps in sautéing and adding richness to the sauce.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor.
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional): A great way to add some color and vegetables.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For extra seasoning.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To balance out the flavors.

This simple list of ingredients gives you a flavorful and creamy casserole that is easy to prepare and loved by all.

How to Make Turkey Tetrazzini with Mushroom Soup: A Simple and Savory Option

If you want to switch up the flavors, you can make Turkey Tetrazzini with mushroom soup instead of the traditional cream of chicken soup. This version adds an earthy, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the turkey. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Prepare the pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the onion: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until soft and translucent.
3. Make the sauce: Add the Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the onions. Stir to combine and heat through until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
4. Combine: Add the cooked turkey, pasta, and peas (if using) into the skillet, stirring everything until it is evenly coated with the sauce.
5. Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and top with breadcrumbs. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

This version of Turkey Tetrazzini is just as comforting and filling, with the added richness of the mushroom flavor in the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Turkey Tetrazzini with Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup

To make the best Turkey Tetrazzini with Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup, follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent. Add Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup and milk, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth.
4. Mix the ingredients: Add the cooked turkey, pasta, and optional peas to the skillet. Stir everything together so the sauce coats all the ingredients.
5. Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top, followed by the breadcrumbs.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy!

Barefoot Contessa’s Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe: A Classic Inspired by the Experts

Ingredients for Barefoot Contessa’s Turkey Tetrazzini

• 4 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced (preferably from a roasted turkey)
• 8 ounces of pasta (spaghetti or egg noodles)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (for a lighter sauce)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, for a richer flavor)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or a mix of Gruyère and Parmesan)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for topping)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Cook 8 ounces of pasta (spaghetti or egg noodles) according to the package instructions.
   • Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce
   • In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
   • Add 1 chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, making a roux to thicken the sauce.
3. Add Liquids and Simmer
   • Gradually whisk in 1 can of Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup, 1/2 cup of chicken broth, and 1 cup of heavy cream.
   • For extra depth of flavor, add 1/2 cup of dry white wine (optional).
   • Continue stirring the mixture until smooth and combined.
   • Season with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
   • Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
4. Add Turkey and Cheese
   • Stir in the 4 cups of cooked turkey, mixing it well with the creamy sauce.
   • Add 1 cup of grated Gruyère cheese (or a combination of Gruyère and Parmesan) and stir until the cheese melts into the sauce.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy turkey mixture.
   • If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or heavy cream to achieve your desired consistency.
6. Assemble the Casserole
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Transfer the turkey and pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Sprinkle the top with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs for a crispy, golden topping.
7. Bake to Perfection
   • Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
   • Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Barefoot Contessa’s Turkey Tetrazzini

• Pair with a light salad, such as a mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette, to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.

How to Make Easy Chicken Tetrazzini with Cream of Mushroom Soup

Ingredients for Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 8 ounces pasta (egg noodles or spaghetti)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup
• 1/2 cup milk (or heavy cream for a richer sauce)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   • Boil 8 ounces of pasta in salted water according to the package directions.
   • Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Onion
   • In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
   • Add 1 chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Prepare the Sauce
   • Add 1 can of Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup to the skillet.
   • Pour in 1/2 cup of milk and stir to combine, creating a creamy sauce.
   • Season with 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well-mixed.
4. Add Chicken to the Sauce
   • Stir in 3 cups of cooked chicken, mixing it into the creamy sauce until evenly coated.
   • Allow the chicken to warm up in the sauce, absorbing all the flavors.
5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and chicken.
   • Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the creamy mixture.
6. Transfer to a Baking Dish
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Transfer the chicken, pasta, and sauce mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs
   • Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
   • Optional: Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for an added crunchy topping.
8. Bake the Casserole
   • Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
   • Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

• Pair with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
• Serve with garlic bread or crusty rolls to complete the meal.

Old Fashioned Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe: A Nostalgic Taste of Comfort

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Chicken Tetrazzini

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 8 ounces of pasta (spaghetti or egg noodles work well)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup
• 1/2 cup milk (or heavy cream for a richer sauce)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   • Boil 8 ounces of pasta in salted water according to the package instructions.
   • Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce
   • In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
   • Sauté 1 chopped onion until softened and translucent.
   • Add the can of Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup and 1/2 cup of milk to the skillet, stirring until smooth and creamy.
3. Season the Sauce
   • Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using).
   • Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
4. Combine Chicken and Pasta
   • Add 3 cups of cooked chicken to the sauce, mixing until the chicken is well coated.
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together.
5. Assemble the Casserole
   • Transfer the chicken and pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Top with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and a generous sprinkle of breadcrumbs.
6. Bake to Perfection
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Chicken Tetrazzini

• Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Pair with warm garlic bread or crusty rolls for the ultimate comfort meal.

The Secret to Perfectly Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini: Using Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup

The key to a perfectly creamy Turkey Tetrazzini is using the right soup as a base for the sauce. Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup is ideal for creating a rich and smooth sauce that clings to the turkey and pasta. It adds both flavor and creaminess, making the dish irresistibly comforting.

Using Campbell’s soup also saves time and effort in the kitchen, allowing you to make a creamy casserole without having to prepare a sauce from scratch. This convenience makes the recipe a favorite among home cooks.

Why Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup is the Best Choice for Turkey Tetrazzini

Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup is a staple in many American kitchens for a reason. It’s convenient, affordable, and versatile, making it the perfect choice for creating the rich and creamy sauce in Turkey Tetrazzini. The soup adds a delicious flavor without being too heavy, making it the ideal base for this casserole.

Not only does Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup make the dish easier to prepare, but it also enhances the flavor, ensuring that each bite is creamy, savory, and satisfying.

Conclusion

Turkey Tetrazzini with Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, tender turkey, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re using leftover holiday turkey or cooking up a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please.

If you’re ready to take your cooking to the next level, try experimenting with different variations and ingredients to create your own signature Turkey Tetrazzini. And don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us – we love seeing how you make our recipes your own!

Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta for Turkey Tetrazzini?

Yes, you can use a variety of pasta types for Turkey Tetrazzini. While spaghetti is traditional, you can substitute it with fettuccine, penne, or egg noodles based on your preference. Just ensure you cook the pasta until al dente before combining it with the sauce.

Can I prepare Turkey Tetrazzini in advance?

Absolutely! To make Turkey Tetrazzini ahead of time, assemble the dish as directed, but don’t bake it. Cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, preheat the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to account for the chilled mixture.

How do I store leftover Turkey Tetrazzini?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat until thoroughly warmed. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through.

Can I freeze Turkey Tetrazzini?

Yes, Turkey Tetrazzini freezes well. After assembling the dish, cover it tightly with foil and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, allowing additional time if needed to reach a bubbly and hot state.

Are there any dairy-free or gluten-free options?

For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and dairy-free cream alternatives, and skip the cheese or use dairy-free cheese. For a gluten-free version, substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure the cream of mushroom or chicken soup is also gluten-free.

Can I use other meats instead of turkey?

Definitely! You can substitute the turkey with cooked chicken, ham, or even seafood like shrimp for a different twist on the classic Tetrazzini. Adjust the cooking times as necessary to ensure the meat is tender and well-incorporated into the dish.