Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole is a delightful and sophisticated take on the classic tuna casserole, perfect for a comforting family meal. With rich flavors and a creamy texture, this dish is both easy to make and impressive to serve. Follow this guide to create a delicious Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole that will become a family favorite.

What is Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole?

Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole is an elevated version of the traditional tuna casserole, inspired by the renowned chef Ina Garten, also known as the Barefoot Contessa. This dish combines tender egg noodles, savory tuna, and a rich, creamy sauce made from a blend of Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses, mushrooms, and peas. The casserole is then topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, adding a delightful texture contrast. This sophisticated take on classic comfort food is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering a deliciously satisfying and heartwarming meal.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Sophisticated Flavor: Combining Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses with mushrooms and peas adds depth and richness.

Easy Preparation: Despite its gourmet appeal, this recipe is straightforward.
Comfort Food: This casserole is the perfect blend of creamy and crunchy, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.
Versatile: You can customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or adjust the cheeses to suit your taste.

Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will love this delicious dish.

Ingredients Needed for Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole

12 oz. egg noodles
2 cans (6 oz. each) of tuna, drained

1 cup frozen peas
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup sliced mushrooms
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups milk
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Gruyere cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise

Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions to Make Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté onion, garlic, and mushrooms in butter over medium heat until softened.

Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
Gradually add milk and chicken broth, whisking continuously until thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in Gruyere cheese, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise.

Add tuna, peas, and cooked noodles to the sauce mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Combine breadcrumbs and olive oil in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

What Goes Well With Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole

Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness of the casserole.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Steamed Vegetables: Adds a healthy, colorful side to your meal.
Mashed Potatoes: Extra comfort food for a hearty meal.
Roasted Asparagus: A light and flavorful side dish.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing finish to your meal.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole

Use Quality Tuna: Opt for good-quality canned tuna for the best flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Slightly undercooked noodles will finish cooking in the oven and remain firm.

Mix Thoroughly: Ensure the sauce is evenly distributed throughout the noodles.
Top Evenly: Spread the breadcrumb topping evenly for a consistent crust.
Cheese Choices: Gruyere adds a rich flavor, but you can experiment with other cheeses.

Add Vegetables: Mix in veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.

Variations of Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole

Vegetarian Version: Substitute tuna with chickpeas or tofu.
Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.

Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower florets instead of noodles.
Gluten-Free: Swap egg noodles for gluten-free pasta.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives.

Seafood Medley: Add shrimp or crabmeat for a seafood delight.

Storing Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole: Best Practices

Cool Completely: Allow the casserole to cool before storing.
Airtight Containers: Store in airtight containers to maintain freshness.

Refrigerate: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers.
Label and Date: Always label and date your containers.

Reheating Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole: Best Practices

Oven Reheating: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through.
Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave for quick reheating.
Add Moisture: Add a splash of milk or cream if the casserole appears dry.

Cover with Foil: Cover with foil when reheating in the oven to prevent drying out.
Stir Occasionally: Stir halfway through reheating for even warming.

FAQs

Can I make Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole ahead of time?

To make Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole ahead of time, prepare the casserole as directed but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator, uncover, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Can I freeze Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole. Prepare the casserole as directed, but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes until heated through.

What can I use instead of Gruyere cheese in Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole?

If you don’t have Gruyere cheese, you can substitute it with Swiss cheese, which has a similar flavor and melts well. Alternatively, you can use a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different but delicious taste.

How do I prevent my Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole from becoming too dry?

To prevent the casserole from becoming too dry, slightly undercook the egg noodles so they can absorb the sauce while baking. Add a bit more milk or chicken broth to the sauce if it seems too thick. Cover the casserole with foil for the first part of baking, then uncover for the last 10 minutes to allow the top to brown.

Final Words

Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole is a timeless dish that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and crunchy topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a surefire hit. Enjoy the process of creating this delightful casserole and the smiles it brings to your loved ones.

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