Description
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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
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 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.