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 casserole has been a family favorite for years and always brings everyone together around the table.
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
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 Preparing this casserole always brings back warm family memories during the holidays.
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.
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 a perfect make-ahead dish that’s comforting and crowd-pleasing every time.
Recipe Guide
- → What type of noodles work best?
Wide egg noodles are ideal as they hold the creamy sauce well and provide a tender texture.
- → Can I substitute the tuna?
Yes, canned salmon or cooked chicken can be used as alternatives to tuna for different flavors.
- → How do I achieve a crispy topping?
Use store-bought crispy fried onions and bake until they turn golden brown and crunchy.
- → Is it possible to lighten the sauce?
Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version.
- → What herbs enhance the sauce?
Dried thyme and parsley add mild herbal notes that complement the creamy tuna mixture.
- → Can mushrooms be added?
Yes, sliced white mushrooms can be included for extra flavor and texture.