Leftover Turkey Pasta Bake: A Family Favorite

Introduction

After the holidays, there’s always that mountain of leftover turkey sitting in the fridge, waiting to be transformed into something delicious. I recently made a Leftover Turkey Pasta Bake that not only helped clear out the fridge but also became an instant hit with my family. The creamy texture, combined with the savory turkey and melted cheese, made for a comforting dish that brought everyone together at the dinner table. As soon as I pulled it out of the oven, the aroma filled the kitchen, and my kids couldn’t wait to dig in. This recipe has definitely earned its spot in our regular meal rotation, and I’m excited to share it with you!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 leek, roughly chopped
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 250 grams dry shells or macaroni pasta
• 1 cup chicken/turkey stock
• 1 1/4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 2 big handfuls fresh baby spinach leaves
• 3 cups cooked turkey, roughly chopped
• 1 cup thickened cream
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (170°C fan forced) / 375°F.

Sauté the Vegetables

2. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe pan over medium-high heat.
3. Sauté the leek and mushrooms for 2-3 minutes, or until softened.
4. Add the garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Cook the Pasta

5. Add the pasta, stock, water, salt, and pepper to the pan.
6. Cook for 12 minutes, or until the pasta is almost cooked through but still has a bit of bite. If needed, add up to 1/2 cup more water to ensure the pasta is cooked properly.

Add the Spinach, Turkey, and Cream

7. Stir in the spinach, turkey, and 2/3 of the combined cheeses.
8. Mix well until the cheese has melted and everything is well incorporated.

Sprinkle with Cheese and Bake

9. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of the pasta mixture.
10. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

Enjoy!

11. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400 calories

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

This Leftover Turkey Pasta Bake is best enjoyed fresh from the oven. Here are some serving suggestions:

• With a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the bake.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a comforting meal.
• Toppings: Consider topping with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Use Leftover Turkey: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover turkey from holiday meals.
2. Cheese Options: Feel free to mix and match different cheeses based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
3. Pasta Choices: Shells and macaroni work well, but you can also use any short pasta you prefer.
4. Make It Ahead: This dish can be assembled in advance and baked just before serving.
5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference, especially if using pre-seasoned stock.

Recipe Variations

• Use Ham: Substitute leftover ham for turkey for a delicious variation.
• Vegetarian Version: For a meat-free option, use sautéed vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers instead of turkey.
• Add Spices: Incorporate spices like paprika or Italian seasoning for an extra flavor boost.
• Swap Cream: Use a dairy-free cream alternative to make it vegan-friendly.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like broccoli or peas for added nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside seasonal roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and acidity to your plate.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can provide a healthy and filling accompaniment.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftover pasta bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 190°C (375°F) until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use uncooked pasta in this recipe?
No, the pasta needs to be partially cooked to ensure it has the right texture in the final bake.

2. What can I substitute for Gruyère cheese?
You can use Swiss cheese or a sharp cheddar as a substitute.

3. Is it necessary to use fresh spinach?
While fresh spinach is recommended for its flavor and texture, you can use frozen spinach if that’s what you have; just make sure to thaw and drain it well.

4. Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and bake it just before serving.

5. How do I know when it’s done baking?
The top should be golden brown and the cheese melted. You can also insert a knife to check if it’s hot throughout.

6. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables.

7. Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.

8. Can I use a different kind of stock?
Yes, any kind of vegetable or beef stock can be used.

9. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 190°C (375°F) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

10. What if I don’t have an oven-safe pan?
You can transfer the mixture to a baking dish before sprinkling with cheese and baking.

Conclusion

This Leftover Turkey Pasta Bake is a fantastic way to repurpose holiday leftovers into a comforting, family-friendly meal. With its creamy sauce, tender pasta, and delicious blend of flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrition, this recipe is not only practical but also delicious. Whether you’re using up turkey from Thanksgiving or just looking for a cozy dinner option, this pasta bake is a winner every time! Enjoy the leftovers in a new light, and let this dish bring warmth to your table.

Print