Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Ina Garten Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe

Ina Garten Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe

  • Author: Anabelle McLean
  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 30
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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.