Barefoot Contessa Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe

I made this Barefoot Contessa turkey tetrazzini recipe after Thanksgiving one year when I had a mountain of leftover turkey and didn’t want to make another sandwich so I turned to Ina’s classic cozy version and instantly fell in love with how creamy flavorful and elegant it turned out

Because I love comforting casseroles that feel indulgent but use up ingredients I already have this has become my favorite post-holiday dish and with its tender turkey rich mushroom sauce and cheesy baked top it’s always a crowd-pleaser at my table

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Cooked turkey – The star of the dish using leftovers or roasted pieces
• Spaghetti – Forms the hearty pasta base that soaks up all the sauce
• Butter – Used to sauté the vegetables and add richness
• Mushrooms – Bring umami flavor and texture to the sauce
• Onion – Adds a sweet mellow base to the dish
• Garlic – Gives the sauce depth and aroma
• All-purpose flour – Helps thicken the creamy sauce
• Chicken or turkey broth – Builds the base of the white sauce
• Heavy cream – Adds richness and silky texture
• Frozen peas – A pop of color and sweetness throughout
• Parmesan cheese – For sharpness and a golden cheesy topping
• Gruyère or mozzarella – Melts beautifully into the sauce and topping
• Salt and pepper – Balances and enhances all the flavors
• Nutmeg – A classic touch that gives the sauce warmth

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot – To boil the pasta
• Skillet or sauté pan – For building the creamy sauce
• Whisk – Ensures a smooth lump-free sauce
• 9×13 baking dish – Ideal for layering and baking everything together
• Mixing bowls – To toss the pasta with sauce and assemble the casserole
• Cheese grater – Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly
• Oven mitts – For handling the hot dish safely

Instructions

Step 1:

I preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly butter a 9×13 baking dish

Step 2:

I cook 12 oz of spaghetti in salted boiling water until just al dente then drain and set it aside

Step 3:

In a large skillet I melt 4 tablespoons of butter and sauté 1 diced onion and 8 oz of sliced mushrooms over medium heat until soft then stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 1 minute

Step 4:

I sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and whisk it constantly for 2 minutes to create a roux

Step 5:

I slowly whisk in 2 cups of chicken or turkey broth and 1 cup of heavy cream then season with salt pepper and a pinch of nutmeg and simmer until thickened about 5 minutes

Step 6:

In a large bowl I combine the cooked spaghetti 3 cups of shredded or chopped turkey 1 cup of frozen peas 1/2 cup grated Parmesan and 1 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella then pour the sauce over and toss to coat evenly

Step 7:

I transfer everything to the prepared baking dish and top with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and Gruyère

Step 8:

I bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden then let it rest for 10 minutes before serving

Tips

If you don’t have Gruyère you can use Swiss or mozzarella for a melty finish

A dash of white wine in the sauce adds a touch of acidity and depth

Make it ahead and refrigerate overnight then bake when ready to serve

Ways to Serve

With a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables

Alongside garlic bread or crusty rolls

As a holiday leftover meal for the whole family

In smaller ramekins for individual servings at a party

Topped with toasted breadcrumbs for added crunch

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this Barefoot Contessa turkey tetrazzini recipe?

Yes it freezes well just cover tightly and freeze before baking then bake from frozen or thaw overnight

Can I use rotisserie chicken in this Barefoot Contessa turkey tetrazzini recipe?

Absolutely it works just as well and saves time

How do I reheat this Barefoot Contessa turkey tetrazzini recipe?

Cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through or reheat individual portions in the microwave

Can I make this Barefoot Contessa turkey tetrazzini recipe gluten-free?

Yes just use gluten-free pasta and a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this Barefoot Contessa turkey tetrazzini recipe a try and enjoy how comforting rich and delicious it is it’s perfect for cozy nights and using up leftovers in the tastiest way possible. Let me know what twist you add or how your family likes it

Happy Cooking!

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