Barefoot Contessa Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe 

Barefoot Contessa Turkey Tetrazzini is the perfect way to turn leftover turkey into a rich, creamy, and comforting pasta bake. Ina Garten’s style of cooking keeps things simple yet sophisticated, and this dish delivers exactly that—tender turkey, flavorful mushrooms, a silky sauce, and a golden cheesy topping. It’s ideal for post-holiday meals, cozy weeknight dinners, or anytime you want a warm casserole-style dish that feels homemade and satisfying.

What is Barefoot Contessa Turkey Tetrazzini?

Turkey Tetrazzini is a creamy baked pasta casserole made with turkey, mushrooms, peas, spaghetti, and a rich sauce made from broth, cream, and Parmesan cheese. Ina Garten’s version stays true to the classic while adding depth and elegance through fresh herbs, perfectly sautéed vegetables, and a crisp breadcrumb topping.

Reasons to Try Barefoot Contessa Turkey Tetrazzini

• Perfect for leftovers – A delicious way to use leftover turkey or chicken.
• Creamy comfort – Silky sauce mixed with pasta makes a satisfying meal.
• Crowd-friendly – Great for family dinners or gatherings.
• Make-ahead dish – Assemble in advance and bake when ready.
• Balanced flavors – Creamy, savory, and lightly crisp on top.
• Freezer-friendly – Stores beautifully for future meals.

Ingredients Needed to Make Barefoot Contessa Turkey Tetrazzini

• 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or cubed
• 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken or turkey broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Instructions to Prepare Barefoot Contessa Turkey Tetrazzini (write in points only)

• Cook the pasta – Boil spaghetti in salted water until just al dente; drain and set aside.
• Sauté vegetables – Melt butter in a large pan, add onions, mushrooms, and garlic, and cook until softened.
• Make the sauce – Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stir, and slowly whisk in the broth and cream until smooth and thickened.
• Add turkey and peas – Stir in the shredded turkey, peas, thyme, salt, and pepper; mix until heated through.
• Combine with pasta – Add the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese to the sauce mixture and toss until fully coated.
• Assemble the casserole – Transfer to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
• Add topping – Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
• Bake the tetrazzini – Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbling.
• Serve warm – Enjoy straight from the oven with fresh herbs or extra Parmesan.

What Goes Well With Barefoot Contessa Turkey Tetrazzini

• Garlic bread slices – A crunchy side to balance the creamy pasta.
• Simple green salad – Fresh greens lighten the meal.
• Steamed broccoli or green beans – Adds a bright, crisp element.
• Roasted carrots – Sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory casserole.
• Cranberry relish – A nod to holiday flavors that complements turkey dishes.

Key Tips for Making Barefoot Contessa Turkey Tetrazzini (6–7 Points)

• Use al dente pasta – Prevents mushiness after baking.
• Season the sauce well – The pasta absorbs flavors, so salt appropriately.
• Add cheese gradually – Helps the sauce stay smooth and creamy.
• Use leftover turkey or chicken – Either works perfectly in this recipe.
• Don’t skip the topping – Breadcrumbs add essential texture.
• Let it rest before serving – Helps the casserole set for cleaner slices.
• Mix peas in last – Keeps them bright and tender.

Creative Variations of Barefoot Contessa Turkey Tetrazzini

• Cheesy version – Add Gruyère or mozzarella for extra richness.
• Vegetable-loaded – Include spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• Herb-forward – Add rosemary, parsley, or sage for deeper flavor.
• Spicy twist – Mix in chili flakes or cayenne.
• Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free pasta and flour.
• Chicken tetrazzini – Swap turkey for leftover roast chicken.

Storage Guidelines for Barefoot Contessa Turkey Tetrazzini

• Refrigerator – Store leftovers for 3–4 days in an airtight container.
• Freezer – Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 2 months; thaw and bake when needed.
• Make-ahead – Assemble hours ahead; bake just before serving to keep topping crisp.

Reheating Tips for Barefoot Contessa Turkey Tetrazzini

• Oven – Heat at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes.
• Microwave – Reheat portions in short intervals to avoid drying.
• Air fryer – Warm at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes for a crisp top.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 590mg

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FAQs

How do I keep Turkey Tetrazzini from becoming dry when baked?

Use enough sauce to fully coat the pasta before baking. Pasta absorbs liquid as it cooks, so a slightly looser sauce ensures the tetrazzini stays creamy. Covering with foil for the first 15 minutes also helps retain moisture before browning the topping.

Can I make Barefoot Contessa Turkey Tetrazzini ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. When baking, add 5–10 extra minutes to ensure it heats through evenly and the breadcrumb topping becomes crisp.

What type of pasta works best for Turkey Tetrazzini?

Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine work best because they hold the creamy sauce well and create a balanced texture. Cook the pasta until just al dente so it doesn’t soften too much during baking.

Can I freeze Turkey Tetrazzini before baking?

Yes, this dish freezes very well. Assemble the casserole but skip the breadcrumb topping. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, add the topping, and bake as directed.

Wrapping Up

Barefoot Contessa Turkey Tetrazzini is the ultimate comfort-food casserole that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful, creamy, and satisfying dish. With tender turkey, rich sauce, and a golden breadcrumb topping, it’s the perfect recipe for using leftovers or creating a hearty family meal that feels both classic and modern. This is a dish you’ll return to again whenever you want warm, easy comfort.