Save A comforting, classic baked casserole featuring tender egg noodles, creamy tuna sauce, vegetables, and a crunchy, golden onion topping.
Ingredients
- Pasta & Fish: 12 oz (340 g) wide egg noodles, 2 cans (5 oz/140 g each) tuna in water, drained and flaked
- Vegetables: 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas, 1 cup (120 g) diced celery, 1 cup (120 g) diced white or yellow onion, 1 cup (90 g) sliced white mushrooms (optional)
- Sauce: 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons (16 g) all-purpose flour, 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk, 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream, 1 can (10.5 oz/298 g) condensed cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Topping: 1 1/2 cups (85 g) crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade), 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Step 2:
- Cook egg noodles in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced onion, celery, and mushrooms (if using) sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Step 4:
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until slightly thickened (2–3 minutes).
- Step 5:
- Stir in sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Mix until smooth and heated through.
- Step 6:
- Add drained tuna, peas, and cooked noodles to the sauce. Gently fold to combine everything evenly.
- Step 7:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese (if using) then top evenly with crispy fried onions.
- Step 8:
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbling and the top is golden brown.
- Step 9:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Save Required Tools
Large pot, Skillet, Whisk, 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, Mixing spoon
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (flour, noodles) Milk (butter, milk, sour cream, cheese, soup) Fish (tuna) Soy (possible in soup or fried onions) Eggs (noodles) Always check labels for allergens in processed ingredients.
Nutritional Information
Calories 410 Total Fat 16 g Carbohydrates 44 g Protein 22 g
Save This creamy tuna noodle casserole is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and sure to become a family favorite.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of noodles works best?
Wide egg noodles hold the creamy sauce well and maintain a tender texture after baking.
- → Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, peas can be swapped for mixed vegetables like carrots or green beans for added color and nutrients.
- → How do I achieve a crispy onion topping?
Using either store-bought crispy fried onions or homemade fried onions ensures a crunchy, golden finish when baked on top.
- → Is there a lighter sauce alternative?
Low-fat milk or Greek yogurt can replace whole milk and sour cream for a lighter, yet creamy sauce base.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor?
Dried thyme adds a subtle earthy note that complements the tuna and creamy sauce perfectly.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc offer bright acidity and complement the creamy and savory elements in the casserole.