old fashioned tuna noodle casserole recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best old fashioned tuna noodle casserole recipe

I’ve been making this old fashioned tuna noodle casserole recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish is a classic comfort food that never fails to satisfy. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

My kids love it, and I love how easy it is to make. The combination of tuna, noodles, and creamy sauce is a match made in heaven. This recipe has been around for decades, but its appeal remains strong.

I think it’s because the ingredients are affordable and accessible to everyone. Plus, the dish can be easily adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. The home cooking technique involved in making this casserole is straightforward, requiring only basic cooking skills and minimal equipment.

A key aspect of this recipe is the way the flavors meld together as the dish bakes in the oven. The aroma that fills the house when it’s cooking is just incredible. I like to serve this casserole hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.

It’s also great as a leftover, reheated in the microwave or oven for a quick and easy meal. This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will become one in yours too.

Old Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole

4.8 from 1575 votes

A classic comfort food featuring tender noodles, chunky tuna, and a creamy sauce, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb topping. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Noodles

8 oz egg noodles

For the Sauce

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups milk
1 cup chicken broth
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder

For the Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tbsp butter
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

For the Filling

2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
1 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup sour cream

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
3Drain and set aside.
4In a saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
5Add flour and whisk to form a roux.
6Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture turns light brown.
7Gradually add milk and chicken broth to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
8Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
9Stir in salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
10Remove from heat and set aside.
11In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, drained tuna, frozen peas, and sour cream.
12Pour the sauce over the noodle mixture and stir until well combined.
13Transfer the noodle mixture to a greased baking dish.
14In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, 1 tbsp melted butter, and grated parmesan cheese.
15Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
16Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
17Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
18Enjoy your old-fashioned tuna noodle casserole.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Saucepan
Baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add chopped celery or carrots for extra vegetables and texture.

Watch Video Of How Old Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole Works

This old fashioned tuna noodle casserole recipe is a true comfort food classic that never goes out of style. It’s perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or need a quick weeknight meal solution.

To store leftovers, let them cool completely before refrigerating or freezing them for later use. When reheating, make sure to stir occasionally to prevent hotspots from forming.

Serve hot with some steamed vegetables on the side for added nutrition.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole

Q: What type of noodles should I use for this casserole?

I recommend using a combination of egg noodles and regular noodles for the best results. Egg noodles have a slightly firmer texture that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Q: Can I use canned tuna in water instead of oil?

Yes, you can use canned tuna in water if that’s what you have on hand. However, keep in mind that the flavor may not be as rich as using oil-packed tuna.

Q: How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry?

To avoid dryness, make sure to not overbake the casserole. Also, add a bit more cream of mushroom soup if you find it drying out during baking.

Q: Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream if you prefer a tangier flavor or if you’re looking for a healthier alternative.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat this casserole?

To reheat this casserole, place it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick snack or meal.

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