Save A comforting, creamy baked casserole featuring tender noodles, savory tuna, and a golden, crispy onion topping—perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
The first time I made this tuna noodle casserole was on a chilly weekend when my family craved something warm and satisfying. They loved the crispy onion topping, and it quickly became one of our go-to meals for easy, fuss-free dinners.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) wide egg noodles
- Protein: 2 cans (each 170 g/6 oz) tuna in water, drained
- Vegetables: 1 cup frozen peas, 1 small onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional), 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Sauce: 1 can (295 g/10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- Topping: 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions (store-bought), 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish:
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish.
- Cook Noodles:
- Cook the egg noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and garlic in a bit of oil until soft (about 3 minutes). Add mushrooms if using and cook until tender.
- Make Sauce:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the condensed soup, milk, sour cream, shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooked noodles, drained tuna, peas, sautéed vegetables, and parsley to the bowl. Stir gently to combine.
- Assemble Casserole:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Add Topping:
- In a small bowl, toss breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the casserole, then top with crispy fried onions.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Save This casserole is always a hit at our family gatherings. Watching everyone dig in, especially the kids, is a heartwarming reminder of how classic flavors bring us together.
Required Tools
Large pot, skillet, mixing bowls, whisk, 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains wheat, milk, fish, and possibly soy. Check all packaging for allergens and cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 430 calories, 18 g total fat, 43 g carbohydrates, 25 g protein
Save Let the casserole cool slightly for easier serving. Enjoy leftovers reheated for a quick meal the next day.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of noodles work best?
Wide egg noodles are ideal for holding the creamy sauce and maintaining texture after baking.
- → Can I substitute the tuna?
Yes, canned salmon or cooked shredded chicken can be used as alternatives for a different flavor profile.
- → How do I achieve a crispy onion topping?
Use store-bought crispy fried onions combined with buttered breadcrumbs and bake until golden brown.
- → Is it possible to add vegetables?
Frozen peas and sautéed mushrooms add color and depth, enhancing the overall flavor and nutrition.
- → How to make the dish lighter?
Substitute low-fat sour cream and cheese to reduce fat content while retaining creaminess.