Save to Pinterest 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 warmth and comfort to our dinner table every time.
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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 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
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Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Step 2:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3:
- While noodles cook, 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.
- Step 4:
- Sprinkle flour over onions and stir constantly for 1 minute to cook the flour.
- Step 5:
- Gradually whisk in milk and broth. Cook, whisking, until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
- Step 6:
- Remove from heat. Stir in sour cream, salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley.
- Step 7:
- Add drained tuna, peas, mushrooms (if using), and shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce. Stir until evenly combined.
- Step 8:
- Add cooked noodles and gently fold until everything is well mixed.
- Step 9:
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly.
- Step 10:
- Top with crispy fried onions.
- Step 11:
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the onions are golden brown.
- Step 12:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Save to Pinterest This dish always brings my family together, sharing smiles over a warm, hearty meal that tastes like home.
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Notes
Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of Chardonnay for a complete dinner experience.
Required Tools
Large pot Large skillet Whisk 9x13 inch baking dish Mixing spoon
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (noodles, flour), dairy (milk, butter, sour cream, cheese), fish (tuna), eggs (egg noodles), and possible soy (crispy onions).
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Enjoy this creamy tuna noodle casserole hot and fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Recipe FAQs
- → What noodles work best for this dish?
Wide egg noodles hold the creamy sauce well, providing a tender base with slight chewiness ideal for this comforting dish.
- → Can I substitute the tuna with other proteins?
Yes, canned salmon or cooked chicken can be used as alternatives while maintaining the dish's rich texture and flavor.
- → How do I achieve the perfect crispy onion topping?
Use store-bought crispy fried onions and add them just before baking to ensure they remain golden and crunchy.
- → Is it possible to lighten the sauce?
Replacing sour cream with Greek yogurt and opting for reduced-fat cheese can reduce richness without sacrificing creaminess.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor of this dish?
Dried thyme and parsley add subtle herbal notes that complement the tuna and creamy sauce beautifully.
