original tuna noodle casserole recipe

The Best original tuna noodle casserole recipe

I’ve been making this original tuna noodle casserole recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a classic dish that never fails to impress, and I love how it’s a great way to get my kids to eat something healthy and delicious.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. I like to think that this recipe has been passed down through generations of home cooks, and it’s a testament to the power of simple, comforting food.

The combination of tuna, noodles, and creamy sauce is a match made in heaven, and it’s a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to feed a crowd, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

I often serve it at family gatherings and potlucks, and it’s always a hit. The best part is that it’s so versatile – you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or add some extra protein for added nutrition.

As a busy mom, I appreciate how this recipe can be easily scaled up or down depending on the number of people I’m serving. And let’s not forget the health benefits – with tuna as the main protein source, this dish is packed with omega-3s and other essential nutrients.

My kids love helping me in the kitchen with this recipe, and they always get excited when they see the finished product on the table. This casserole is more than just a meal – it’s a memory-making experience that brings people together around the dinner table.

Original Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe

4.7 from 582 votes

A classic comfort food featuring tender noodles, savory tuna, and a creamy sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb topping. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner.

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

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

12 oz (340g) wide egg noodles
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups milk
1 can (5 oz/142g) tuna in water, drained
1 cup (115g) shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup (55g) breadcrumbs
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup (150g) frozen peas
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried parsley

Equipment

Large pot
Saucepan
Mixing bowl
8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking dish
Oven

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2Boil a large pot of salted water.
3Add egg noodles and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
4Drain and set aside.
5In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
6Add flour and whisk to form a roux.
7Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
8Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
9Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
10Stir in tuna, 3/4 cup of the cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and dried parsley.
11Remove from heat and set aside.
12In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, tuna sauce, and frozen peas.
Mix well.
13Transfer the mixture to a greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
14Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
15In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs and olive oil.
16Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
17Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
18Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
19Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
20Serve hot and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Cooking pan or pot
Spatula or wooden spoon

📊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 substitute whole wheat noodles for a healthier option. Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.

Watch Video Of How Original Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe Works

This original tuna noodle casserole recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to feed a crowd.

It’s also perfect for family gatherings because everyone loves it!

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Original Tuna Noodle Casserole

Q: What kind of noodles should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, you can use any type of noodle you prefer – whether it’s egg noodles, macaroni, or even rice noodles. The key is to choose a noodle that holds onto the creamy sauce well.

Q: Can I substitute canned tuna with fresh tuna?

While fresh tuna is delicious, canned tuna is actually preferred in this recipe because of its convenient packaging and shelf-stable nature.

Q: How long does this casserole keep in the fridge?

This casserole will keep for 3-5 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container.

Q: Can I freeze individual portions of this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze individual portions of this casserole for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q: What are some good ways to customize this recipe?

You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables – such as frozen peas, diced carrots, or chopped bell peppers – or by using different types of cheese or spices to give it an extra boost of flavor.

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