Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole

This Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole is a gourmet take on a classic comfort food. Inspired by Ina Garten’s elevated style, this dish brings together creamy béchamel, fresh vegetables, al dente pasta, and tender chunks of tuna, all baked to golden perfection with a crisp topping of panko and parmesan.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average tuna casserole. Ina Garten’s version transforms the humble dish into a satisfying, elegant meal that’s fit for family dinners or casual entertaining. The flavors are rich and balanced, the texture is creamy yet crisp, and every bite is full of depth thanks to the fresh herbs and high-quality ingredients. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil
• Yellow onions
• Celery
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Garlic cloves
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• All-purpose flour
• Whole milk
• Chicken stock
• Dry white wine
• Medium shell pasta
• Frozen peas
• Italian tuna packed in oil
• Fresh dill
• Fresh parsley
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese
• Unsalted butter

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil and cook chopped onions and celery until soft. Add garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. Sprinkle in flour to form a roux and stir continuously. Gradually whisk in milk, chicken stock, and wine. Let the mixture thicken into a béchamel-style sauce.
4. In a separate pot, cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. Stir frozen peas, tuna, fresh herbs, and cooked pasta into the sauce. Mix until well combined.
6. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish.
7. In a small bowl, combine panko, parmesan, and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
9. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This casserole yields approximately 6 servings.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Twist: Add shredded Gruyère or cheddar for a more indulgent flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the béchamel.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace tuna with sautéed mushrooms or canned chickpeas.
• Spicy Kick: Add more crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Crunch Factor: Mix in crushed potato chips or fried onions with the panko topping.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes. Add a splash of milk before reheating to restore creaminess.

FAQs

What type of tuna is best for this casserole?

Italian tuna packed in oil is preferred for its richer flavor and tender texture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.

Can I freeze Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole?

Yes, freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Is fresh dill necessary?

Fresh dill adds a bright herbal note, but it can be replaced with dried dill or omitted if unavailable.

Can I use canned soup instead of making the sauce?

For the Barefoot Contessa version, the homemade béchamel is essential for flavor and texture.

What wine works best in the sauce?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best. Avoid anything too sweet.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Don’t overbake, and if reheating, add a splash of milk or stock to keep it moist.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, fusilli or penne are great substitutes that hold the sauce well.

What vegetables can I add?

Chopped mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers can be sautéed and added to the mix.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely. You can reduce the red pepper flakes to make it milder for children.

Conclusion

The Barefoot Contessa Tuna Casserole proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be ordinary. With its creamy, flavorful base and irresistible topping, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Perfect for weeknight dinners, leftovers, or make-ahead meals, this elevated casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

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