Description

Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish featuring tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich plant-based cheese sauce. This flavorful pasta bake combines simple ingredients to create a heartwarming meal perfect for family gatherings or make-ahead dinners. Enhanced with smoked turkey bacon for a smoky crunch and fresh parsley for brightness, this casserole is customizable and satisfying for all tastes.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Pasta

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
8 oz spaghetti pasta
4 oz smoked turkey bacon, diced

Vegetables and Aromatics

1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce Ingredients

2 cups plant-based milk
1 cup plant-based cheese sauce
1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
1 teaspoon natural gelling agent

Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta and Chicken: Cook spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside. Shred or dice cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring tenderness for easy mixing.
Sauté the Vegetables and Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a large skillet, cook diced smoked turkey bacon until crispy, then remove and set aside. Using the same pan, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until softened and lightly golden.
Make the Creamy Plant-Based Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, combine plant-based milk, plant-based cheese sauce, apple cider vinegar (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and natural gelling agent. Heat gently while whisking continuously until the sauce thickens into a smooth, creamy texture that will coat the pasta evenly.
Combine and Assemble the Casserole: In a large mixing bowl, mix cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, smoked turkey bacon, and the creamy cheese sauce. Stir thoroughly to ensure even coating and flavor distribution.
Bake to Golden Perfection: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Spread additional plant-based cheese sauce on top for a golden crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and slightly browned on top.

Notes

Use day-old cooked chicken to enhance flavor and texture.
Do not overcook pasta to prevent mushy casserole; al dente is ideal.
Toast mushrooms thoroughly to deepen flavor and reduce moisture.
Whisk sauce continuously while heating to avoid lumps and achieve smoothness.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking for better flavor setting and easier serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 450 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 25 g
Cholesterol: 40 mg

Keywords: Chicken Tetrazzini, casseroles, creamy pasta bake, plant-based cheese sauce, smoked turkey bacon, comfort food, dairy-free, family meal