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What kind of recipe is it?
Roasted Turkey Lasagna is a delightful and hearty dish perfect for Thanksgiving celebrations, offering a unique twist on traditional lasagna.
Made with layers of tender roasted turkey, creamy béchamel sauce, and rich marinara, this lasagna isn’t only a comforting meal but also a great way to utilize leftover turkey from the holiday feast.
Ideal for families and friends, it brings a savory, festive flair to the table, encouraging shared moments and creating lasting memories this holiday season.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Roasted turkey, shredded | 3 cups |
| Lasagna noodles | 12 sheets |
| Marinara sauce | 3 cups |
| Béchamel sauce | 2 cups |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 2 cups |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1 cup |
| Fresh basil, chopped | ¼ cup |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium onion |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Ground nutmeg | ¼ teaspoon |
| Eggs | 1 large |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | ¼ cup (optional) |
Feel free to adjust the quantities based on the number of servings desired, and enjoy the process of bringing this delicious dish to your Thanksgiving table!
Cooking Steps
1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and adjust the oven rack to the center position.
2. Prepare a large 33 x 23 cm (13 x 9 inch) baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil.
3. In a medium skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot (around 190 °C / 375 °F), add 1 medium diced onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until aromatic but not browned; remove from heat.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of shredded roasted turkey, the sautéed onion and garlic, 3 cups of marinara sauce, ¼ cup of chopped fresh basil, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg.
Mix until evenly incorporated.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of béchamel sauce with 1 large egg until smooth.
7. Begin layering in the prepared baking dish: spread 1 cup of marinara sauce across the bottom, then place 4 sheets of lasagna noodles evenly over the sauce (no overlap).
8. Add half of the turkey mixture from step 5 over the noodles, followed by one-third of the béchamel sauce (about ½ cup) and one-third of the 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese (about ⅔ cup).
9. Repeat layers: add another 4 sheets of noodles, the remaining turkey mixture, another ½ cup of béchamel, and another ⅔ cup of mozzarella.
10. Place the final 4 sheets of noodles, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over them, finishing with the remaining béchamel sauce and a final sprinkle of 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
11. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 20–25 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbling (internal temperature should reach at least 74 °C (165 °F)).
13. Once baked, remove from the oven and let the lasagna rest for at least 15–20 minutes to allow the layers to set.
14. Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired, and enjoy the rich aroma and cheesy goodness.
Variations
- Spinach and Ricotta Twist: Replace the turkey with 500g (1 lb) of fresh spinach and 250g (8 oz) of ricotta cheese for a vegetarian option infused with fresh herbs.
- Mushroom and Thyme Delight: Substitute turkey with 500g (1 lb) of sautéed mixed mushrooms and add 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme for an earthy, savory flavor.
- Gluten-Free Lasagna: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and guarantee marinara and béchamel sauces are prepared with gluten-free ingredients to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Dairy-Free Vegan Option: Opt for vegan cheese instead of mozzarella and use a cashew béchamel sauce made from blended cashews, nutritional yeast, and plant-based milk for a creamy texture without dairy.
Tips on plating and presentation
When it comes to plating your roasted turkey lasagna, I find that a few thoughtful touches can elevate the dish from simple comfort food to an impressive centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table.
Consider using a white plate to contrast the golden layers, and garnish with fresh herbs for color.
A drizzle of béchamel on top adds a silky finish that’ll catch everyone’s eye!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
To create a well-rounded Thanksgiving meal, consider pairing your roasted turkey lasagna with a few complementary dishes that enhance the overall dining experience.
I love serving a fresh arugula salad topped with pomegranate seeds and candied nuts. A side of buttery garlic green beans also adds a delightful crunch.
Don’t forget some cranberry sauce for a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors!
What drinks can I pair it with?
What’s better than enjoying a delicious roasted turkey lasagna with the perfect drink in hand?
I love pairing it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the creamy béchamel beautifully.
If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling apple cider adds a festive touch.
Either way, these choices elevate the meal and make Thanksgiving unforgettable!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Turkey for This Lasagna?
Absolutely, I’ve used pre-cooked turkey before in my lasagna. It saves time and still tastes great! Just make certain it’s shredded or chopped fine, so it blends well with the other ingredients. Enjoy your cooking!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Turkey Lasagna?
I usually store leftover turkey lasagna in the fridge for about three to four days. If I want to keep it longer, I’ll freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped!
Is This Recipe Suitable for Gluten-Free Diets?
This recipe isn’t gluten-free unless you use gluten-free pasta. I often swap regular pasta for a gluten-free alternative, and it still tastes great. Just double-check the béchamel ingredients too—some contain gluten.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. I usually assemble everything a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just remember to add a little extra baking time when you’re ready to heat it through!
How Can I Make the Béchamel Sauce Vegan-Friendly?
I make béchamel vegan-friendly by using plant-based butter and almond or oat milk instead of dairy. I whisk in nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor and season it with nutmeg, salt, and pepper for extra depth.