Save to Pinterest A comforting, creamy classic featuring tender noodles, savory tuna, and a golden, crunchy onion topping — perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
I remember the first time I made this tuna noodle casserole for my family. The aroma as it baked quickly became a favorite, and the crispy onion topping always adds a cozy touch to our dinner table.
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 the oven and dish:
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking dish.
- Cook the noodles:
- Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the vegetable base:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add chopped onion and mushrooms. Sauté 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Prepare the sauce:
- Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly. Cook until sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
- Season and combine:
- Stir in sour cream, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and thyme. Remove from heat.
- Mix it all together:
- Add drained tuna, peas, cheddar cheese, and cooked noodles to the sauce. Mix gently until combined.
- Assemble the casserole:
- Spoon mixture into prepared baking dish.
- Add topping and bake:
- Sprinkle crispy fried onions evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Rest before serving:
- Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Save to Pinterest Whenever we bring this casserole to a potluck, my kids insist on scooping extra crispy onions on top. It's become a beloved comfort food during our colder months together.
Required Tools
You'll need a large pot, large skillet, whisk, 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking dish, and basic mixing utensils for easy assembly.
Allergen Information
This recipe includes milk, wheat, fish, eggs, and possibly gluten. Always verify packaged items, especially noodles and fried onions, for specific allergen details.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 430 calories, 17 g fat, 44 g carbohydrates, and 25 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Tuna noodle casserole is a timeless favorite that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. Serve it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What noodles work best for this dish?
Egg noodles provide the perfect texture and hold the creamy sauce well, ensuring each bite is satisfying and tender.
- → Can I substitute the tuna with another protein?
Yes, canned salmon or cooked chicken can be used as alternatives, offering different flavors while maintaining the dish’s comforting quality.
- → How do I achieve a crispy onion topping?
Use store-bought crispy fried onions or quickly fry thinly sliced onions in oil until golden and crunchy to add a contrasting texture.
- → Is it possible to add vegetables to this casserole?
Frozen peas and mushrooms are excellent additions, adding freshness and depth without overpowering the dish’s creamy base.
- → What wine pairs well with this creamy casserole?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the rich flavors and balances the dish’s creaminess beautifully.