This homemade tuna noodle casserole is a comforting dish made entirely from scratch, with no canned soup involved! Packed with mushrooms, onions, celery, and peas, this casserole brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal.
Prep Time: 30 mins | Cook Time: 50 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins | Servings: 6
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter, divided
- 1 (8-ounce) package 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
- 3 tablespoons bread crumbs
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Use 1 tablespoon of butter to grease a medium baking dish.
- Cook the Noodles: Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook the egg noodles in the boiling water until they are tender yet firm to the bite, about 7 to 9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the onion, celery, and garlic, cooking and stirring until they are tender, about 5 minutes. Increase the heat to medium-high and stir in the mushrooms. Continue cooking until most of the liquid has evaporated, about 5 more minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth, then gradually whisk in the milk. Cook until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole: Stir the tuna, peas, mushroom mixture, and cooked noodles into the sauce. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Add the Topping: Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a microwave-safe bowl, which should take about 10 seconds. Mix in the bread crumbs and sprinkle the mixture over the casserole. Top with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake until it is bubbly and lightly browned, about 25 minutes.
How to Make Tuna Noodle Casserole from Scratch
This recipe is perfect for those who crave a hearty and comforting meal without relying on canned soups. By creating a homemade sauce and using fresh vegetables, the dish offers a richer and more flavorful experience. The steps are straightforward, making this casserole an easy go-to dinner option.
How to Store Tuna Noodle Casserole from Scratch
If you have leftovers, store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) until heated through.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
– Calories: 546
– Fat: 31g
– Carbs: 40g
– Protein: 27g
This tuna noodle casserole is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, made entirely from scratch with wholesome ingredients. It’s a dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table, making it a family favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it fresh from the oven or enjoying leftovers the next day, this casserole is sure to satisfy. With its creamy sauce, tender noodles, and savory tuna, it’s a meal that everyone will love. Plus, with the added bonus of being easy to store and reheat, it’s a convenient and delicious option for busy weeknights. Enjoy the rich taste of homemade goodness with every bite!