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 cozy tuna casserole has been a family favorite for years with its creamy texture and crunchy topping.
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
- 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 This dish always brings smiles around our dinner table and wraps us in warm memories.
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
Save This casserole is perfect comfort food for any occasion and is always a hit with family and friends.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of noodles work best for this dish?
Wide egg noodles provide the right texture and absorb the creamy sauce well, maintaining tenderness without becoming mushy.
- → Can I substitute the tuna with other proteins?
Yes, canned salmon or cooked chicken can be used to vary the flavor while keeping the dish satisfying.
- → How do the crispy onions enhance the dish?
The crispy onions add a golden crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce and tender noodles, creating a balanced texture.
- → Is it possible to lighten the creamy sauce?
Replacing sour cream with Greek yogurt and using reduced-fat cheese can reduce richness without sacrificing flavor.
- → What herbs are included to flavor the sauce?
Dried thyme and parsley provide subtle aromatic notes, complementing the tuna and creamy base beautifully.
- → Can mushrooms be omitted or substituted?
Yes, mushrooms are optional and can be left out or replaced with other vegetables like spinach for added nutrients.