Save A comforting classic casserole featuring tender egg noodles, savory tuna, and a rich creamy sauce, all topped with golden crispy onions for irresistible crunch.
This creamy tuna noodle casserole has been a family favorite for years, bringing comfort and smiles to every meal.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) wide egg noodles
- Sauce: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1 small yellow onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced, 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk, 1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- Filling: 2 cans (5 oz/140 g each) solid white tuna in water drained and flaked, 1 cup (120 g) frozen peas thawed, 1 cup (100 g) sliced white mushrooms (optional), 1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- Topping: 1 1/2 cups (75 g) store-bought crispy fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook noodles:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare sauce base:
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Make roux:
- Sprinkle flour over onions and stir constantly for 1 minute to cook the flour.
- Add liquids:
- Gradually whisk in milk and broth. Cook whisking until the sauce thickens about 3 4 minutes.
- Season sauce:
- Remove from heat. Stir in sour cream salt pepper thyme and parsley.
- Add filling:
- Add drained tuna peas mushrooms if using and shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce. Stir until evenly combined.
- Combine noodles:
- Add cooked noodles and gently fold until everything is well mixed.
- Assemble casserole:
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly.
- Add topping:
- Top with crispy fried onions.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 25 30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbling and the onions are golden brown.
- Rest:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Save Sharing this casserole at family dinners has created many warm memories filled with laughter and stories.
Notes
For a lighter version use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduced-fat cheese. Substitute canned salmon or cooked chicken for tuna if desired. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a kick. Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of Chardonnay.
Required Tools
Large pot large skillet whisk 9x13-inch baking dish mixing spoon
Nutritional Information
Calories 410 Total Fat 16 g Carbohydrates 43 g Protein 25 g per serving
Save This creamy tuna noodle casserole is comfort food at its finest ready to enjoy anytime.
Kitchen Guide
- → What type of noodles work best?
Wide egg noodles hold the creamy sauce well and provide a tender yet sturdy texture ideal for the casserole.
- → Can I substitute the tuna?
Yes, canned salmon or cooked chicken can be used as alternatives to add different flavors while maintaining the protein content.
- → How do I achieve a crispy onion topping?
Using store-bought crispy fried onions and baking uncovered helps them become golden and crunchy without getting soggy.
- → Is it possible to lighten the dish?
Replacing sour cream with Greek yogurt and using reduced-fat cheese lowers fat while keeping creaminess and flavor.
- → Can I add extra vegetables?
Frozen peas and sliced mushrooms add texture and color; other mild veggies can be included according to taste.