Ultimate Tuna Noodle Casserole: Classic Comfort Food Recipe

Tuna noodle casserole. The name alone evokes feelings of warmth, comfort, and perhaps a little nostalgia. It’s a dish that many of us grew up with, a staple on family dinner tables, and a go-to for potlucks and gatherings. While it may have a reputation for being a simple, budget-friendly meal, a well-made tuna noodle casserole can be a truly delicious and satisfying experience. This recipe elevates the classic, incorporating fresh ingredients, flavorful sauces, and a crispy topping that will have everyone asking for seconds.

This isn’t your grandma’s tuna noodle casserole (unless your grandma’s casserole was already amazing!). We’re building on the foundation of the traditional dish but adding layers of flavor and texture that will transform it into something truly special. We’re talking about a creamy, savory sauce, perfectly cooked noodles, tender tuna, vibrant vegetables, and a golden, crunchy topping that ties it all together.

Why This Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe Works

There are countless tuna noodle casserole recipes out there, so what makes this one stand out? Here are a few key reasons:

• From-Scratch Sauce: We’re ditching the canned soup and creating a luscious, creamy sauce from scratch using butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth. This allows us to control the flavor and richness of the sauce, ensuring it’s perfectly seasoned and not overly salty.
• Fresh Vegetables: While some recipes rely solely on canned or frozen vegetables, we’re incorporating fresh ingredients like celery and onion to add a burst of flavor and texture. These vegetables provide a subtle sweetness and a pleasant crunch that complements the other ingredients.
• Flavorful Tuna: We’re using high-quality tuna packed in water or olive oil, drained well, to ensure that the tuna flavor shines through without being overpowered by the other ingredients.
• Customizable Topping: The topping is where you can really get creative. We’re offering a few different options, from classic crushed potato chips to buttery breadcrumbs and crispy fried onions, allowing you to tailor the casserole to your preferences.
• Balanced Flavors: The key to a great tuna noodle casserole is balancing the flavors. We’re aiming for a combination of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet notes that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather all of your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Casserole:

• 1 pound egg noodles: Egg noodles are the traditional choice for tuna noodle casserole, but you can also use other types of pasta, such as elbow macaroni or rotini. Cook the noodles according to package directions until al dente, being careful not to overcook them.
• 4 tablespoons butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the sauce.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: The flour acts as a thickening agent for the sauce.
• 4 cups milk: Whole milk will create the richest and creamiest sauce, but you can also use 2% milk or even almond milk for a lighter option.
• 2 cups chicken broth: Chicken broth adds depth of flavor to the sauce. You can use store-bought or homemade broth.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust the amount of salt to your liking.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder enhances the savory flavor of the casserole.
• 1/2 cup chopped onion: Yellow or white onion will work well.
• 1/2 cup chopped celery: Celery adds a pleasant crunch and subtle sweetness.
• 2 (5-ounce) cans tuna packed in water or oil, drained: Choose high-quality tuna for the best flavor. Drain the tuna well to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
• 1 cup frozen peas: Frozen peas add a pop of color and sweetness. You can also use other vegetables, such as green beans or corn.
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese adds a sharp and tangy flavor to the casserole. You can also use other types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Gruyere.

For the Topping (Choose one):

• Crushed potato chips: This is a classic topping that adds a salty and crunchy texture.
• Buttered breadcrumbs: Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter for a golden and crispy topping.
• Crispy fried onions: Crispy fried onions add a savory and slightly sweet flavor.
• Shredded cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the casserole for a melted and bubbly topping.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot: For cooking the noodles.
• Large saucepan: For making the sauce.
• 9×13 inch baking dish: For baking the casserole.
• Whisk: For smoothing the sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the ingredients.
• Can opener: For opening the cans of tuna.
• Colander: For draining the noodles.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all of your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s get started!

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.
3. Drain the noodles in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This is called a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, making sure to break up any lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Stir in the salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
6. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, sauce, onion, celery, tuna, peas, and cheddar cheese.
3. Mix well to combine.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Add the Topping

1. Sprinkle your chosen topping over the casserole.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
2. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to help you make the perfect tuna noodle casserole:

• Don’t overcook the noodles: Overcooked noodles will become mushy and detract from the texture of the casserole. Cook them until al dente, which means they should be firm to the bite.
• Make sure the sauce is thick enough: The sauce should be thick enough to coat the noodles and vegetables. If it’s too thin, it will make the casserole watery. If it’s too thick, it will be difficult to stir.
• Drain the tuna well: Excess liquid from the tuna will make the casserole watery. Drain the tuna well before adding it to the mixture.
• Don’t overbake the casserole: Overbaking the casserole will dry it out and make the topping too hard. Bake it until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
• Let the casserole cool before serving: Letting the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving will allow the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.

Variations and Additions

One of the great things about tuna noodle casserole is that it’s so versatile. You can easily customize it to your liking by adding different ingredients or changing up the topping. Here are a few ideas:

• Add different vegetables: Try adding other vegetables, such as green beans, corn, mushrooms, or carrots.
• Use different cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or pepper jack.
• Add spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or try adding other spices, such as paprika or oregano.
• Use a different sauce: Instead of making a white sauce, try using a cream of mushroom soup or a cheese sauce.
• Add a protein: In addition to tuna, you can add other proteins, such as cooked chicken, ham, or ground beef.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the tuna and add more vegetables for a vegetarian version.
• Add a crunchy topping: In addition to potato chips, breadcrumbs, and fried onions, you can also use crushed crackers, chopped nuts, or even crumbled bacon.

Serving Suggestions

Tuna noodle casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

• Side salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing complement to the rich and creamy casserole.
• Steamed vegetables: Steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans are healthy and delicious side dishes.
• Garlic bread: Garlic bread is a classic pairing with casserole.
• Fruit salad: A fruit salad is a light and refreshing dessert option.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Tuna noodle casserole is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, simply add the topping and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold.

Storage Instructions

Leftover tuna noodle casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)

• Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving
• Fat: 20-30 grams
• Protein: 20-30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some frequently asked questions about tuna noodle casserole:

Q: Can I use canned soup instead of making the sauce from scratch?

A: Yes, you can use canned cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup as a shortcut. However, making the sauce from scratch allows you to control the flavor and richness of the casserole.

Q: Can I use different types of pasta?

A: Yes, you can use other types of pasta, such as elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne. Just be sure to cook the pasta until al dente.

Q: Can I freeze tuna noodle casserole?

A: Yes, you can freeze tuna noodle casserole, but the texture may change slightly. It’s best to freeze the casserole before baking it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to bake it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour. You may also need to use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free by using dairy-free milk, dairy-free butter, and dairy-free cheese. You may also need to use a dairy-free alternative for the topping.

Enjoy!

Tuna noodle casserole is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck. With this recipe, you can create a delicious and satisfying casserole that everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and enjoy!