Save A comforting, creamy classic featuring tender noodles, savory tuna, and a golden, crunchy onion topping — perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Growing up, homemade tuna noodle casserole was always a staple in our house. The aroma of bubbling cheese and crispy onions from the oven instantly meant a cozy evening with family around the 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
- Prep 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.
- Prepare Vegetables:
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and mushrooms, sauté 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 Creaminess:
- Stir in sour cream, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and thyme. Remove from heat.
- Combine Filling:
- Add drained tuna, peas, cheddar cheese, and cooked noodles to the sauce. Mix gently until combined.
- Assemble Casserole:
- 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.
- Finish:
- Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Save This casserole became a favorite at my grandma's Sunday suppers — everyone clamored for seconds, especially when she let us sprinkle on extra crispy onions.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a fresh green salad and a glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for a complete meal.
Ingredient Swaps
Try Greek yogurt in place of sour cream, or swap cheddar for Swiss or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
Nutrition Info
Each serving provides approximately 430 calories, 17 g total fat, 44 g carbohydrates, and 25 g protein.
Save This homemade casserole is sure to bring everyone together at the table. Enjoy leftovers reheated for an easy lunch or quick dinner.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of noodles work best?
Egg noodles are ideal for their tender texture and ability to absorb the creamy sauce perfectly.
- → Can I use fresh onions instead of crispy topping?
Yes, sautéed onions add flavor, but the fried crispy onions provide a contrasting crunch and golden color on top.
- → Is it possible to add vegetables to this dish?
Adding peas and mushrooms adds color and earthiness, complementing the tuna and creamy sauce well.
- → How do I achieve a creamy sauce without lumps?
Cook flour with butter before gradually whisking in milk, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened.
- → What cheese alternatives can I use?
Swiss or Monterey Jack cheeses provide different flavors while maintaining creaminess.