AmericanLunch

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

This beloved American comfort food combines tender egg noodles with flaky tuna in a luscious cream sauce, studded with sweet peas and aromatic herbs. The dish is crowned with a golden breadcrumb and cheese topping that adds delightful crunch to every bite. Dating back to the 1950s, this casserole became a staple in American households for its simplicity, affordability, and crowd-pleasing flavors. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings, this one-pot wonder requires minimal prep while delivering maximum comfort. The creamy texture combined with the protein-rich tuna and vegetables creates a well-balanced meal that satisfies both adults and children alike. Best served hot from the oven with a simple side salad.

Instructions

step by step

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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with butter.
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add diced onions and celery, sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 2 minutes to create a roux.
Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Add salt, black pepper, thyme, and paprika. Stir until sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Drain tuna and flake it into chunks. Add to the cream sauce along with frozen peas and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until cheese melts.
Add cooked noodles to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Transfer mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter and parmesan cheese.
Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
Top with additional shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole

5.0 (65)

A comforting classic American casserole featuring tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, and a rich creamy sauce, topped with golden breadcrumbs and melted cheese for the perfect one-pot family meal.

easy

55 min

6 servings

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

4 cups noodles, uncooked egg noodles
400 grams tuna, drained and flaked
2 cups cheese-cheddar, shredded
1 1/2 cups peas, frozen

Sauce

2 cups milk
1 cups heavy-cream
5 tablespoons butter, divided
1/4 cups flour

Aromatics

1 pieces onions, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced

Topping

1 cups breadcrumbs
3 tablespoons cheese-parmesan, grated

Seasonings

1 1/2 teaspoons salt
3/4 teaspoons black-pepper, freshly ground
1 teaspoons thyme, dried
1/2 teaspoons paprika

Garnish

2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (optional)

Chef Tips

expert advice

•For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the cream sauce.

•You can substitute canned salmon for tuna, or use a combination of both.

•Fresh mushrooms make an excellent addition - sauté them with the onions and celery.

•For a lighter version, use reduced-fat milk and cheese.

•To make ahead, assemble the casserole without the breadcrumb topping, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours.

•Add topping just before baking and increase baking time by 10 minutes.

•Crushed potato chips can replace breadcrumbs for a nostalgic twist.

•Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

•Fresh dill or parsley stirred into the sauce adds brightness.

American

👍 Beginner Friendly

1h 5measy