Turkey & Broccoli Alfredo

Name: Turkey & Broccoli Alfredo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces fettuccine pasta; 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty Food Recipes

I love making this Turkey & Broccoli Alfredo when I am craving a hearty and comforting meal. The combination of tender turkey, fresh broccoli, and creamy Alfredo sauce creates a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover turkey, and the flavors meld beautifully in just a short time. I usually serve it over fettuccine, but you can use any pasta you have on hand. This recipe has quickly become a family favorite that I can whip up in under 30 minutes!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-02-04T16:09:28.457Z

Making Turkey & Broccoli Alfredo is something I've looked forward to ever since I developed this recipe. The creamy sauce clings perfectly to the pasta, creating a delightful experience with each bite. The key to making this dish truly stand out is using freshly steamed broccoli, which not only adds color but also keeps its crunch, contrasting beautifully with the creamy texture of the sauce.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends. They were all surprised at how easy it was to prepare yet so satisfying. I used leftover turkey from Thanksgiving, and it turned out to be a perfect solution to avoid waste while creating something delicious. Trust me; once you try it, you'll want to make it again and again!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy Alfredo sauce with a hint of garlic and cheese
Perfect for using up leftover turkey and healthy vegetables
Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Fettuccine

Cooking the fettuccine pasta to the perfect al dente texture is crucial for this dish. When boiling the pasta, make sure your water is at a rolling boil before adding the noodles. This ensures they cook evenly and prevents clumping. Taste the pasta a minute or two before the package's recommended time; it should be firm to the bite but not chalky. Drain it promptly to avoid overcooking, as the pasta will continue to soften in residual heat.

For an added layer of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of olive oil or a pinch of salt to the boiling water. This can elevate the taste of your pasta, which plays a significant role in the overall balance of flavors in the dish. Reserve your pasta water; it is a great tool for adjusting the sauce's thickness later on, maintaining a creamy consistency without additional fat.

Enhancing the Alfredo Sauce

The Alfredo sauce is the heart of this recipe, and there are a few techniques to ensure it turns out perfectly creamy. Start heating the olive oil on medium heat—if it’s too high, the garlic might burn, leading to bitterness. Once you add the cream, keep an eye on it; a gentle simmer is ideal to blend the flavors without boiling, which can cause the sauce to break. Stir constantly to incorporate the cream and cheese without clumping.

For a more complex flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or some freshly cracked black pepper to the sauce as it simmers. Nutmeg adds warmth that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess. The key is to melt the Parmesan slowly, stirring until the cheese is fully incorporated, resulting in a glossy, smooth sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta and other ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

8 ounces fettuccine pasta
2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to prepare all ingredients before cooking for efficiency.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Turkey & Broccoli Alfredo:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Steam the Broccoli

In a steamer or microwave, steam the broccoli florets until bright green and tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.

Make the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Add the shredded turkey and steamed broccoli to the sauce, then mix in the cooked fettuccine. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach the desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious meal!

Enjoy your freshly made Turkey & Broccoli Alfredo!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce while cooking or some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Once you've enjoyed your Turkey & Broccoli Alfredo, storing leftovers is easy. Place any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to prevent dryness and promote a smooth, creamy texture. Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to ensure even warming without burning the pasta or sauce.

If you're feeling ambitious, you could freeze portions for longer storage. However, due to the creamy sauce’s nature, freezing can change the texture once thawed. If you choose this route, try freezing the turkey and broccoli separately from the sauce, combining them on the day of serving.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein. Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can complement the dish nicely. If you’re using fresh vegetables, be sure to sauté them briefly before adding to the sauce; this enhances their flavor while keeping them vibrant and tender-crisp. Alternatively, shredded chicken can be a great substitute if turkey is unavailable.

For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream. This will still give you a sauce that's creamy but with fewer calories. Additionally, using whole wheat or vegetable-based fettuccine can add more nutrition and fiber to your meal. Remember to adjust cooking times according to the pasta type you choose.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with any pasta of your choice, such as penne or spaghetti.

→ Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

Absolutely! You can use whole wheat pasta and reduce the amount of heavy cream by substituting part of it with low-fat milk.

→ Can I prep the ingredients ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the pasta, turkey, and broccoli in advance and just combine and heat them up when ready to serve.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, leftovers will last about 2-3 days.