Description
This Turkey Tetrazzini Pasta Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish featuring tender spaghetti pasta combined with smoky turkey bacon and smoked turkey slices. Enhanced with plant-based cheese and sautéed mushrooms, onion, and garlic, it delivers a savory, smoky depth with a luscious, creamy sauce made from vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce. This family-friendly casserole is ideal for make-ahead meals and brings warmth and joy to any table.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Protein
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon
- 6 oz smoked turkey slices
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce Components
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (natural)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the spaghetti pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, ensuring it is slightly undercooked as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Prepare the Smoky Protein: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crispy. Remove, chop into bite-sized pieces, then in the same pan, lightly brown the smoked turkey slices to warm through and enhance flavor.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the skillet, sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender and flavorful.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a separate saucepan, combine the vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, and natural gelling agent. Stir gently over medium heat until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Remove from heat and stir in the plant-based cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, smoked turkey bacon, smoked turkey slices, sautéed vegetables, and creamy sauce until evenly coated.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. Garnish with fresh parsley just before serving.
Notes
- Use slightly undercooked pasta to allow absorption of sauce during baking and to avoid mushiness.
- Do not omit the smoked turkey bacon for a smoky, rich flavor balance.
- Choose a mild-flavored plant-based cheese for smooth melting and creamy texture.
- Let the casserole rest briefly after baking for easier serving and to set the texture.
- Customize with herbs such as thyme or sage in addition to parsley for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Turkey Tetrazzini, Pasta Casserole, Smoked Turkey, Plant-based Cheese, Comfort Food, Family Meal