There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty casserole, especially when it combines the rich, creamy flavors of tuna and cheese with the satisfying texture of egg noodles. Tuna Noodle Casserole is a quintessential comfort food that brings back warm memories of family dinners and cozy gatherings. For many, this dish is a nostalgic trip to simpler times, where the aroma of a bubbling casserole in the oven was the highlight of the day.
The origins of Tuna Noodle Casserole can be traced back to the mid-20th century, a time when convenient and affordable ingredients were paramount in home cooking. This dish embodies the spirit of that era, combining pantry staples with fresh vegetables to create a meal that’s both economical and delicious. Whether you’re revisiting this classic from your childhood or trying it for the first time, you’re in for a treat.
Today, I’ll guide you through crafting this beloved casserole, from start to finish. We’ll start by preparing the ingredients and then move through each step with clear instructions. The result will be a dish that is creamy, cheesy, and satisfying—a true comfort food staple.
Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces of egg noodles
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
- 6.5 ounces of sliced mushrooms
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2.5 cups of whole milk
- 1 can (15 ounces) of peas, drained
- 1 can (12 ounces) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups of crispy fried onions
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that it’s hot and ready to go when your casserole is assembled.
Prepare the Noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente. Drain them thoroughly and set aside. The noodles will absorb the sauce as they bake, so it’s important not to overcook them at this stage.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and green bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for your casserole.
Make the Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the cooked vegetables in the skillet. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste and form a roux. This mixture will help thicken the sauce.
Prepare the Sauce: Slowly add the whole milk to the roux, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Reduce the heat to low and blend in the softened cream cheese, stirring until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
Combine Ingredients: Fold in the flaked tuna, drained peas, and sliced mushrooms. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This mixture should be well combined and flavorful, with the vegetables and tuna evenly distributed throughout.
Mix with Noodles: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sauce mixture with the drained egg noodles. Mix thoroughly to ensure that the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
Assemble the Casserole: Pour the noodle mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure an even bake.
Add Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt and create a delicious, gooey topping. Finally, sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly on top. These will add a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to stand for a few minutes before serving. This will give it time to settle and make it easier to serve. The cooling period also helps the flavors meld together.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables according to your preference. For example, you could use frozen peas and carrots, or add some corn for extra sweetness.
Cheese: If sharp cheddar isn’t your favorite, you can use mild cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Protein: Instead of tuna, you could use cooked chicken or leftover turkey. This is a great way to repurpose leftover meat.
Dietary Preferences: For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and milk. You can also use gluten-free noodles if you have a gluten intolerance.
Conclusion
This Tuna Noodle Casserole is more than just a meal—it’s a warm, comforting hug in a dish. The creamy, cheesy sauce combined with tender noodles, savory tuna, and crispy toppings creates a satisfying and nostalgic experience. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for busy days when you need a quick yet hearty meal. Enjoy the process of making it and the pleasure of sharing it with loved ones.
