Ina Garten Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe

Ina Garten’s Tuna Noodle Casserole is a comforting, classic dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. This recipe takes a beloved family favorite and elevates it with fresh ingredients and a homemade sauce, leaving you with a rich and creamy casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. With tender noodles, flaky tuna, and a golden breadcrumb topping, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

What is Ina Garten Tuna Noodle Casserole?

Ina Garten’s Tuna Noodle Casserole is her elevated version of the traditional casserole. It combines tender egg noodles, high-quality tuna, and a creamy, homemade béchamel sauce with sautéed mushrooms, peas, and a crisp breadcrumb topping. This comforting dish is baked until golden brown and bubbling, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.

Other Popular Recipes

• Ina Garten Beef Stroganoff
• Ina Garten Beef Chili
• Ina Garten Chicken Enchiladas

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Homemade Flavor: The béchamel sauce adds a rich, creamy texture that’s far superior to store-bought options.
• Perfect for Family Dinners: It’s a comforting meal that pleases everyone, from kids to adults.
• Easily Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients, adding more vegetables or using different types of pasta to suit your taste.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Tuna Noodle Casserole

• 12 ounces egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 ½ cups frozen peas
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cans (6 ounces each) tuna, drained
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions to Make Ina Garten Tuna Noodle Casserole

To make Ina Garten Tuna Noodle Casserole, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

• Boil the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• Cook the onions and garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
• Sauté the mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until tender and browned about 6-8 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

• Create the roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
• Add milk and cream: Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
• Season the sauce: Stir in salt and pepper to taste, then fold in the drained tuna and frozen peas. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to warm everything through.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

• Mix the noodles and sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the creamy tuna sauce. Stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
• Transfer to a baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5: Add the Topping

• Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese.
• Sprinkle on top: Evenly spread the breadcrumb topping over the casserole.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

• Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

• Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

What Goes Well with Ina Garten Tuna Noodle Casserole

• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pair nicely with the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for an extra comforting touch.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans add a fresh, healthy contrast to the creamy dish.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a light, sweet note that balances the savory flavors.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Ina Garten Tuna Noodle Casserole

• Use high-quality tuna: Opt for tuna packed in olive oil for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook the noodles: Be sure to cook the noodles just until al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Toast the breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, lightly toast the panko breadcrumbs in a skillet before adding them to the casserole.
• Add extra veggies: Feel free to include other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to make the casserole even heartier.
• Let it rest: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to help the flavors set and make it easier to slice.

Variations of Ina Garten Tuna Noodle Casserole

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make the casserole gluten-free.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.
• Different Cheeses: Try using Gruyère or Swiss cheese for a deeper flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the tuna and add more vegetables like roasted cauliflower or zucchini for a vegetarian version.
• Chicken Noodle Casserole: Swap the tuna for cooked, shredded chicken for a different protein option.

Storing Ina Garten Tuna Noodle Casserole: Best Practices

• Refrigerate leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze the casserole: If you want to freeze the casserole, cool it completely and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Label and date: Always label your frozen casserole with the date to track its freshness.

Reheating Ina Garten Tuna Noodle Casserole: Best Practices

• Oven reheating: Reheat the casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave option: Heat individual portions in the microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Add moisture if needed: If the casserole has dried out, add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to restore its creaminess.

How can I make Ina Garten Tuna Noodle Casserole healthier?

To make Ina Garten’s Tuna Noodle Casserole healthier, consider these adjustments:

• Use whole wheat noodles to add more fiber and nutrients to the dish.
• Substitute Greek yogurt for the heavy cream to reduce fat while maintaining creaminess.
• Use low-sodium canned tuna and low-sodium broth to cut down on salt.
• Increase the vegetables by adding extra mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to boost vitamins and fiber.
• Opt for reduced-fat cheese to lower the overall fat content without sacrificing flavor.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten’s Tuna Noodle Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, and then bake as directed.

How do I keep tuna noodle casserole from drying out?

To keep tuna noodle casserole from drying out, be sure to use enough sauce to coat the noodles thoroughly. If it seems too dry before baking, you can stir in a little extra milk or cream. Also, covering the casserole with foil for the first 15-20 minutes of baking helps retain moisture.

Can I freeze Ina Garten’s Tuna Noodle Casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Let the cooked casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator and bake it in the oven until warmed through.

What can I substitute for tuna in a tuna noodle casserole?

If you’re not a fan of tuna, you can substitute it with cooked, shredded chicken or even salmon. Both options provide a similar texture and work well with the creamy sauce and noodles.

Final Words

Ina Garten’s Tuna Noodle Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s sure to please. With its creamy sauce, tender noodles, and crispy breadcrumb topping, this casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or as a make-ahead meal.

Other Yummy Recipes:

• Pioneer Woman Beef Barley Soup
• Pioneer Woman Chicken Tortilla Soup
• Ina Garten Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Ina Garten Brunch Egg Casserole

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