Barefoot Contessa’s Tuna Casserole

Barefoot Contessa’s Tuna Casserole is a comforting, classic dish made with tender pasta, creamy sauce, and flavorful tuna. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy weeknight meal.

Barefoot Contessa’s Tuna Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta with a rich, creamy sauce and flavorful tuna. It’s a timeless dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table, making it a favorite for both family meals and casual weeknight dinners.

This recipe is wonderfully easy to prepare, yet it delivers layers of flavor that feel indulgent and satisfying. Topped with a golden, crispy crust, every bite offers the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and tender pasta, making it a dish everyone will love.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Classic Comfort Food: Brings warmth and nostalgia to your dinner table.
• Creamy & Cheesy: Rich sauce and melted cheese make every bite irresistible.
• Quick & Easy: Simple to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, a guaranteed hit.
• Crispy Topping: Golden, crunchy crust adds texture and extra flavor.

Barefoot Contessa’s Tuna Casserole Ingredients

• Egg noodles – Tender pasta base that soaks up creamy sauce.
• Canned tuna – Flaky, savory protein that adds classic flavor.
• Cream of mushroom soup – Rich, velvety base for the casserole.
• Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and depth to the sauce.
• Milk – Lightens the sauce and blends flavors smoothly.
• Cheddar cheese – Sharp, melty topping for extra richness.
• Frozen peas – Sweet pops of color and freshness inside.
• Onion – Subtle savory flavor that enhances the casserole.
• Breadcrumbs – Golden, crunchy topping for perfect crisp finish.

How To Make Barefoot Contessa’s Tuna Casserole

Step One: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

Step Two: In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, and milk until smooth. Stir in the drained tuna, peas, and chopped onion. Fold in the cooked noodles until evenly coated.

Step Three: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

Step Four: Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let rest for a few minutes before serving warm.

Barefoot Contessa’s Tuna Casserole Recipe Tips

• Use high-quality tuna – Use solid white albacore packed in water for the best flavor and texture.
• Cook pasta slightly underdone – The noodles will continue cooking in the oven, so keep them al dente to avoid mushiness.
• Add extra veggies – Try mushrooms, carrots, or broccoli for more flavor and nutrition.
• Cheese matters – Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best melt and flavor instead of pre-shredded cheese.
• Crispier topping – Mix in a sprinkle of Parmesan with breadcrumbs for a golden, crunchy finish.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

• Storing: Keep leftover tuna casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before storing to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: Wrap the cooled casserole tightly in foil or store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze before baking and add the breadcrumb topping just before cooking.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot, or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes. Cover with foil while reheating to prevent the top from drying out.

Barefoot Contessa’s Tuna Casserole Recipe Faqs

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna? Yes! Fresh tuna works well, but make sure it’s fully cooked and flaked before adding it to the casserole.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe? Short pasta like egg noodles, penne, or rotini hold the sauce nicely and give the best texture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I keep the casserole from drying out? Make sure to use enough sauce and cover with foil while baking. Remove foil in the last few minutes to crisp the topping.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup? You can use a homemade mushroom sauce, cream of chicken soup, or even a creamy Alfredo sauce as a substitute.

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