Description
Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole is a cozy, creamy, and comforting meal combining tender chicken, smoky turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, and a luscious creamy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this casserole offers rich flavors, a smoky depth, and a satisfying texture all baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, diced
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine pasta
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauces and Dairy Alternatives
- 1 1/2 cups plant-based cream or milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 cup plant-based cheese (such as mozzarella-style or smoked gouda-style), shredded
- Additional 1/2 cup plant-based cheese (for topping)
Thickening and Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken and Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside. Shred or dice the cooked chicken breast to ensure tender, bite-sized pieces ready for mixing.
- Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced smoked turkey bacon until crispy and golden. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, sauté the chopped onions, garlic, and fresh mushrooms until softened and fragrant.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Add the plant-based cream or milk to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), chicken broth, and a pinch of black pepper. Gradually sprinkle in the natural gelling agent, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked smoked turkey bacon to the pan. Add the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, and plant-based cheese. Gently fold all the ingredients together until the cheese melts and the sauce coats everything evenly.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the additional plant-based cheese on top for a golden crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and lightly browned on top.
Notes
- Do not overcook the pasta; cooking until just al dente helps maintain texture.
- Use medium heat when sautéing vegetables to develop flavors fully without burning.
- Add vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) towards the end to balance the sauce with umami richness.
- Let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking to set for easier slicing and flavor melding.
- Experiment with different plant-based cheese varieties to customize flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Keywords: Chicken Tetrazzini, casserole, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, creamy pasta, comfort food, family dinner
