Name: Tuna Casserole Recipe: Hearty and Nostalgic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 oz egg noodles; 2 cans (5 oz each of tuna in water, drained); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 8 oz cremini mushrooms (sliced); 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs; Optional: Parsley (extra cheese); Suggested Pairings: Green salad (iced tea)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Tuna Casserole is a classic, comforting dish, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy weeknight meals. This creamy, savory casserole combines tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, and a rich mushroom sauce, topped with a golden, crunchy layer. Presented in a white ceramic baking dish, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of breadcrumbs, this casserole offers a warm, inviting aesthetic that evokes nostalgia. This recipe delivers a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, and ideal for home cooks seeking a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that celebrates simple, wholesome flavors.

Ingredients

For the Tuna Casserole:

12 oz egg noodles
2 cans (5 oz each) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs (for topping)

For Serving:

Optional: Chopped fresh parsley, extra cheese
Suggested Accompaniments: Green salad, steamed broccoli
Suggested Pairings: Iced tea, white wine
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic baking dish
Suggested Equipment: Large pot, large skillet, 9×13-inch baking dish, mixing bowls, whisk, spatula

Step-by-Step Process

Cook Noodles: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook egg noodles in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente (about 6-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and mushrooms; cook for 5-6 minutes until mushrooms release their liquid and soften.
Make Creamy Sauce: Add butter to the skillet and melt. Sprinkle in flour and stir for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly whisk in milk and broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until thickened. Stir in peas, 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and thyme. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or thyme for a balanced flavor.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked noodles, flaked tuna, and creamy sauce. Mix gently until evenly coated.
Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch white ceramic baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs over the top.
Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes. Serve warm from the white ceramic baking dish, garnished with fresh parsley or extra cheese. Pair with a green salad, steamed broccoli, iced tea, or white wine.

Tips for Better Tuna Casserole

Cook noodles al dente to prevent mushiness after baking; rinse briefly to stop cooking.
Taste the sauce before combining to balance seasoning, as broth and tuna vary in saltiness.
Use a white ceramic baking dish for even baking and an elegant presentation.
Drain the tuna well to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
Crush potato chips or breadcrumbs finely for a uniform, crunchy topping.
Add cheese to the topping sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
Make ahead: Assemble the casserole (without topping) and refrigerate up to 1 day; add topping and bake when ready.
Enhance aesthetic: Present in a white ceramic baking dish with vibrant parsley for a cozy, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Vegetarian Tuna Casserole: Replace tuna with 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas or 1 cup sautéed zucchini; use vegetable broth.
Vegan Tuna Casserole: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cheese; replace tuna with mashed chickpeas or hearts of palm.
Gluten-Free Tuna Casserole: Use gluten-free egg noodles and flour; ensure potato chips or breadcrumbs are gluten-free certified.
Low-Fat Tuna Casserole: Use skim milk, reduce butter to 1 tbsp, and use low-fat cheese.
Spicy Tuna Casserole: Add 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes or 1 tbsp diced jalapeño with the mushrooms.
Mediterranean Tuna Casserole: Add 1/2 cup diced sun-dried tomatoes and 1/4 cup crumbled feta; replace thyme with oregano.
Cheesy Tuna Casserole: Increase cheese to 1.5 cups and add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan to the sauce.
Broccoli Tuna Casserole: Replace peas with 1 cup steamed broccoli florets for a greener twist.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat in the oven at 300°F for 15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Freeze the baked casserole for up to 2 months in an airtight container; thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat, adding fresh topping if soggy.
Serve warm for the best flavor; avoid keeping at room temperature for over 2 hours due to dairy and fish content.
Use leftovers in stuffed peppers or as a filling for baked potatoes.
Pair with a green salad or steamed vegetables to complement the creamy richness.
Present in a white ceramic baking dish with parsley or extra cheese for a warm, nostalgic charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 6 servings (1.5 cups each):

Calories: 450 kcal
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 780mg
Total Carbohydrates: 42g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 22g
Vitamin A: 15% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 10% Daily Value
Calcium: 20% Daily Value
Iron: 15% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by brand. Moderate in sodium; try low-sodium broth or tuna. Pair with vegetables for balance.

Conclusion

This Tuna Casserole recipe offers a hearty, nostalgic dish, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a comforting classic. Its straightforward preparation and warm presentation make it a favorite. The creamy noodles, flaky tuna, and crunchy topping delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its wholesome, retro appeal.