Tuna Noodle Casserole from Scratch: A Comforting Classic

Quick Benefits

Tuna noodle casserole is a hearty, comforting dish made entirely from scratch—no canned soup required! Packed with fresh vegetables, tender egg noodles, and a creamy homemade sauce, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. It’s an easy-to-make, budget-friendly meal that the whole family will love.

Essential Ingredients

Casserole Base:

• ½ cup butter, divided
• 8 ounces uncooked medium egg noodles
• ½ medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 8 ounces button mushrooms, sliced
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 (5-ounce) cans tuna, drained and flaked
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed

Topping:

• 3 tablespoons bread crumbs
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat & Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a medium baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Cook the Noodles: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook egg noodles until tender yet firm to the bite (7-9 minutes). Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic, cooking until tender (about 5 minutes). Increase heat to medium-high, add mushrooms, and cook until most of the liquid evaporates (about 5 more minutes). Set aside.
4. Make the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly, and cook until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine the Ingredients: Stir in tuna, peas, mushroom mixture, and cooked noodles into the sauce. Mix well and transfer to the prepared baking dish.
6. Prepare the Topping: Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and mix with bread crumbs. Sprinkle over the casserole, then top with shredded Cheddar cheese.
7. Bake & Serve: Bake for 25 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly browned on top. Serve hot and enjoy!

Health Benefits

• High in Protein: Tuna and cheese provide a great source of lean protein.
• Rich in Vitamins & Minerals: Peas, mushrooms, celery, and onions add essential nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, and potassium.
• Homemade Sauce: Unlike canned soups, this from-scratch sauce eliminates preservatives and artificial additives.
• Balanced Meal: A great mix of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein makes it a filling and nourishing dish.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side Salad: Serve alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Pair with Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread makes a delicious side for this creamy dish.
• Add a Crunchy Side: Try serving with roasted vegetables or a crisp slaw to balance the texture.
• Wine Pairing: A light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Creative Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
• Extra Veggies: Try adding spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for more nutrients.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and a flour alternative to make this dish gluten-free.
• Cheese Blend: Swap Cheddar for Parmesan, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

Pro Tips

• Use Fresh Tuna (Optional): While canned tuna works great, fresh-cooked tuna takes this dish to the next level.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Slightly undercooking them prevents them from becoming mushy after baking.
• Thicken the Sauce Well: Let the sauce cook until it coats the back of a spoon for a rich and creamy consistency.
• Evenly Distribute Toppings: Sprinkle breadcrumbs and cheese evenly for a perfectly crispy top.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I use instead of peas?

You can substitute peas with corn, green beans, or chopped spinach.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Cover it loosely with foil while baking and remove it in the last 5 minutes for a crispy top.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, penne, fusilli, or rotini also work well.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes! Use plant-based butter, dairy-free milk, and omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

This homemade tuna noodle casserole is an easy, flavorful, and comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners. Enjoy making it from scratch for a healthier, fresher take on this classic dish!

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