Save 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 chilly evening I baked this casserole for my family. The aroma filled our kitchen, and everyone eagerly gathered around the table, making it an instant favorite we now revisit whenever comfort is needed.
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.
- Sauté vegetables:
- 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.
- 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.
- Season sauce:
- Stir in sour cream, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and thyme. Remove from heat.
- Combine mixture:
- Add drained tuna, peas, cheddar cheese, and cooked noodles to the sauce. Mix gently until combined.
- Spoon and top:
- Spoon mixture into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle crispy fried onions evenly over the top.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Rest:
- Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Save Serving this casserole always reminds me of those warm, laughter-filled nights where everyone lingered after dinner, chatting over second helpings.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, whisk, baking dish (23 x 33 cm), and mixing utensils are all you need for seamless preparation.
Nutritional Information
Each serving delivers about 430 calories, 17 g total fat, 44 g carbohydrates, and 25 g protein for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad and dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, for an elevated family dinner experience.
Save This casserole brings comfort to your table every time. Enjoy sharing it with those you love most.
Recipe FAQ
- → How can I make the sauce creamier?
Add a bit more sour cream or substitute some milk with cream for extra richness without overpowering flavors.
- → Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen peas?
Yes, fresh peas or even chopped green beans work well; just lightly steam them before adding to maintain texture.
- → What’s the best way to get a crispy onion topping?
Use store-bought crispy onions or fry thinly sliced onions until golden brown for a crunchy, flavorful topping.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the crispy onions just before baking for best texture.
- → Are there good cheese alternatives for this dish?
Swiss or Monterey Jack cheese provide a smooth melt and subtle flavor variations if you want to switch from cheddar.