Save A comforting creamy classic featuring tender noodles savory tuna and a golden crunchy onion topping is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
I remember my first attempt at making this casserole for a Sunday dinner. Everyone loved the creamy sauce and golden topping even those who usually skip tuna dishes asked for seconds!
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) egg noodles
- Seafood: 2 cans (each 170 g/6 oz) tuna in water drained
- Vegetables: 1 cup frozen peas thawed 1 small onion finely chopped 2 cloves garlic minced 1 cup sliced button mushrooms (optional)
- Sauce: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 cups whole milk 120 ml (½ cup) sour cream 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Cheese: 1 cup (about 100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- Topping: 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Dish:
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking dish.
- Cook Noodles:
- Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Vegetables:
- In a large skillet over medium heat melt butter. Add chopped onion and mushrooms and sautë 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Make Sauce:
- Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk stirring constantly. Cook until sauce thickens about 3–4 minutes.
- Add Flavorings:
- Stir in sour cream Dijon mustard salt pepper and thyme. Remove from heat.
- Combine:
- Add drained tuna peas cheddar cheese and cooked noodles to the sauce. Mix gently until combined.
- Assemble:
- Spoon mixture into prepared baking dish.
- Add Topping:
- Sprinkle crispy fried onions evenly over the top.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Save Sharing this casserole at our family table brings back warm memories everyone loves helping sprinkle the crispy onions before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad and your favorite dry white wine.
Allergen Info
Contains milk wheat fish eggs and possibly gluten check packaging labels for details if needed.
Nutrition Facts
Each serving provides about 430 calories 17 g fat 44 g carbohydrates and 25 g protein.
Save This tuna noodle casserole delivers comfort and flavor in every bite bake until bubbly and golden and enjoy!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute the egg noodles with another pasta?
Yes, short pasta shapes like penne or rotini work well, maintaining similar texture and cooking times.
- → Is there a way to make the topping extra crispy?
Lightly toast the fried onions in the oven before adding them on top to enhance the crunchiness.
- → How can I adjust the creaminess of the sauce?
Use whole milk and sour cream for richness, or substitute Greek yogurt for a tangy twist, adjusting consistency as needed.
- → What herbs complement this dish best?
Dried thyme adds depth, but fresh parsley or chives sprinkled before serving can brighten the flavors.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best texture and flavor.