Tuna Tomato Noodle Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

This Tuna Tomato Noodle Casserole is a simple, satisfying, and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, a rich tomato sauce, and a creamy, cheesy topping for a dish that’s both comforting and delicious. This recipe is a modern twist on a classic, incorporating fresh ingredients and flavorful seasonings to elevate it beyond the typical canned soup version.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Easy to Make:** With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this casserole is incredibly easy to assemble.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Tuna and noodles are pantry staples, making this a cost-effective meal option.
* **Comfort Food Classic:** The combination of creamy sauce, cheesy topping, and savory tuna is the ultimate comfort food.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your preferences by adding vegetables, different cheeses, or alternative sauces.
* **Great for Leftovers:** This casserole reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Egg Noodles:** 1 pound of wide egg noodles, cooked according to package directions.
* **Tuna:** 2 (5-ounce) cans of tuna packed in water, drained.
* **Tomato Sauce:** 2 (15-ounce) cans of tomato sauce.
* **Diced Tomatoes:** 1 (14.5-ounce) can of diced tomatoes, undrained.
* **Onion:** 1 medium onion, finely chopped.
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves garlic, minced.
* **Butter:** 2 tablespoons butter.
* **All-Purpose Flour:** 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour.
* **Milk:** 1 cup milk (whole or 2% works best).
* **Cheddar Cheese:** 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
* **Dried Oregano:** 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
* **Dried Basil:** 1 teaspoon dried basil.
* **Salt:** 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste.
* **Black Pepper:** 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste.
* **Optional:** 1/2 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables, thawed.
* **Optional Topping:** Bread crumbs for extra crunch.

Equipment You’ll Need

* Large pot for cooking noodles
* Large skillet or saucepan
* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Mixing bowls
* Cheese grater

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s a detailed guide to making the perfect Tuna Tomato Noodle Casserole:

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
3. Drain the noodles in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Tuna and Vegetables

1. Drain the tuna cans thoroughly. Gently flake the tuna with a fork and set aside.
2. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
3. If using, thaw the frozen peas or mixed vegetables.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture starts to thicken.
6. Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
7. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Remove the sauce from the heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, flaked tuna, and the tomato sauce. If using, add the thawed peas or mixed vegetables.
3. Gently stir everything together until well combined, being careful not to break the noodles.
4. Add 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese to the noodle mixture. Stir until the cheese is evenly distributed.
5. Pour the noodle mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5: Add the Cheese Topping

1. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
2. If desired, sprinkle bread crumbs over the cheese topping for extra crunch. This is optional, but it adds a nice textural element.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
3. Remove the aluminum foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
4. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to slice.

Tips and Variations

* **Add Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers, celery, or mushrooms to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition. Sauté them with the onions before adding the garlic.
* **Use Different Cheese:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere, for a unique flavor profile.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little heat.
* **Creamy Sauce:** For an even creamier sauce, add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce before combining it with the noodles.
* **Use Fresh Herbs:** Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can add a bright, fresh flavor to the casserole. Stir them into the sauce at the end of cooking.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free egg noodles and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free to make this casserole suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
* **Tuna Substitution:** Canned salmon or cooked, shredded chicken can be substituted for tuna.
* **Breadcrumb Topping:** For a more flavorful breadcrumb topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and a pinch of garlic powder before sprinkling it over the casserole.
* **Make Ahead:** Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Serving Suggestions

This Tuna Tomato Noodle Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with:

* A simple green salad
* Garlic bread or rolls
* Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
* Coleslaw

Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Store leftover Tuna Tomato Noodle Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheat:** Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the top from browning too much.
* **Freeze:** While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Tuna Tomato Noodle Casserole. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per Serving, based on 8 servings)

* Calories: 350-400
* Protein: 25-30g
* Fat: 15-20g
* Carbohydrates: 30-35g

*Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

Printable Recipe Card

For easy reference, here’s a printable version of the Tuna Tomato Noodle Casserole recipe:

[This section would ideally include a recipe card plugin integration for WordPress.]

Enjoy Your Comfort Food!

This Tuna Tomato Noodle Casserole is a delightful and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to share with family and friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a warm and satisfying casserole that will bring back fond memories and create new ones. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and make it your own! Happy cooking!