Heavenly Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Recipe for Cozy Evenings

Comfort meets creativity in this delightful creamy tuna noodle bake that promises to revolutionize your weeknight dinner routine.

Pasta lovers will adore how easily this dish comes together with minimal effort.

Cheesy, tender noodles mingle with flaky tuna in a sauce that hugs each ingredient perfectly.

We’ve crafted a recipe that balances nutrition and flavor without complicated techniques.

Rich, golden breadcrumbs add a satisfying crunch to the creamy ensemble.

Quick and budget-friendly, this bake delivers maximum satisfaction in every single bite.

You won’t believe how something so simple can taste so incredible – dive right in and make dinner magic happen!

Instructions to Prepare Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Warm up the oven to 375F (190C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Boil the egg noodles following package instructions until they reach a perfect al dente texture.

Drain thoroughly and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatic Vegetables

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add diced onions and cook until they become soft and translucent. Introduce minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute to release its fragrant oils.

Step 4: Create a Smooth Roux

Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir continuously. This will help thicken the sauce and create a rich, smooth base for your casserole.

Step 5: Develop the Creamy Sauce

Gradually pour in warm milk, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue cooking until the sauce reaches a thick, velvety consistency.

Step 6: Season the Sauce

• Sour cream
• Mustard powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix until all ingredients are well combined and the sauce is smooth.

Step 7: Combine Casserole Ingredients

• Cooked noodles
• Flaked tuna
• Frozen peas
• Cheddar cheese
• Prepared creamy sauce

Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 8: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top for an extra layer of cheesy goodness.

Step 9: Add Crispy Topping

Toss panko breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. Scatter the seasoned breadcrumbs evenly over the casserole to create a crunchy golden crust.

Step 10: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Look for a bubbly, golden-brown top that signals it’s ready to devour.

Step 11: Finish and Serve

Optional: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting classic!

Tips That Help Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Turn Out Great

• Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the sauce for an extra tangy kick that elevates the entire dish.
• Toast panko breadcrumbs in a skillet before sprinkling to create an extra crispy, golden-brown topping with deeper nutty notes.
• Use low-sodium tuna and replace some cheese with nutritional yeast for a healthier version without sacrificing rich, creamy taste.
• Replace tuna with cooked chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken, or canned salmon for a delightful variation that keeps the recipe exciting.

Variations to Change Up Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake

• Seafood Fusion Bake: Replace tuna with crab or salmon for a luxurious maritime flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Herb Remix: Add chopped fresh dill, oregano, and crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired version.
• Spicy Southwest Crunch: Incorporate diced green chiles, pepper jack cheese, and jalapeño-seasoned breadcrumbs for a zesty kick.
• Protein Power Upgrade: Mix in shredded rotisserie chicken and swap regular noodles with high-protein whole wheat or chickpea pasta for extra nutrition.

Pairing Options With Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake

• Pair Zesty White Wine: Select a crisp, acidic white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the creamy richness of the tuna bake. Its bright citrus notes and refreshing finish complement the dish's savory elements.
• Create Fresh Side Salad: Toss a light mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the casserole's hearty texture. Arugula, baby spinach, and cucumber add brightness and contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Serve Crunchy Vegetable Slaw: Prepare a tangy coleslaw with red cabbage, carrots, and apple cider vinegar dressing. The crisp, acidic side dish cuts through the dish's richness and provides a refreshing counterpoint to the warm, cheesy casserole.

Proper Storage Methods for Tuna Noodle Bake

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Transfer cooled casserole to a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with date and contents.

Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through. Add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Preheat oven to 350F. Cover dish with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes, removing foil in the last 5 minutes to crisp the breadcrumb topping.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta like rotini, shells, or penne. Just ensure you cook the pasta al dente to maintain the right texture.

• Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace regular flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Also, choose gluten-free pasta to create a similar recipe.

• How can I add more protein to this casserole?

Consider adding cooked chicken, canned salmon, or white beans alongside the tuna. You could also sprinkle extra cheese or mix in some diced ham for additional protein.

Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Loaded With Comfort Flavors

• Comfort Food Champion: A hearty, creamy casserole that delivers warm, satisfying flavors perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings.
• Hassle-Free Cooking: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for home cooks of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned chefs.
• Nutritious One-Pot Wonder: Packed with protein from tuna, vegetables, and dairy, this dish offers a balanced meal that keeps everyone full and happy.
• Customizable Crowd-Pleaser: Easy to adapt with different cheese varieties, add extra vegetables, or swap proteins to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences.

Ingredients Inside Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake

• Egg Noodles: Tender pasta that serves as the base of this comforting casserole.
• Tuna: Flaky protein that adds a delicious seafood element to the dish.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and creamy cheese that provides rich flavor and melty texture.

• Milk: Smooth liquid that creates the foundation of the creamy sauce.
• Sour Cream: Tangy ingredient that adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• Flour: Thickening agent that helps create a smooth and velvety sauce.
• Olive Oil or Butter: Provides a rich base for sautéing and adds flavor.

• Onion, Garlic: Aromatic vegetables that build a flavor base for the dish.
• Mustard Powder, Salt, Pepper: Seasonings that enhance the overall taste profile.
• Peas: Sweet and tender vegetable that adds color and nutritional value.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Crispy topping that gives a crunchy texture to the casserole.
• Parsley: Optional fresh herb for garnish and added brightness.

Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake Recipe

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4.6 from 37 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comforting Tuna Noodle Bake delivers classic American comfort with a modern twist. Cheesy pasta, tender tuna, and crispy breadcrumb topping create a perfect weeknight dinner guaranteed to satisfy hungry families.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 cans (5 ounces/140 grams each) tuna in water, drained and flaked
• 2 cups (226 grams) shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Noodles and Vegetables:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) egg noodles
• 1 1/2 cups (200 grams) frozen peas
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (480 milliliters) warm milk
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup (60 grams) panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for breadcrumbs)
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 375F (190C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Cook egg noodles in boiling water until perfectly tender, then drain thoroughly.
3. Sauté diced onions in olive oil over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Dust flour over the onion-garlic mixture, stirring continuously to create a smooth roux for 1-2 minutes.
6. Gradually stream warm milk into the roux, whisking vigorously to eliminate potential lumps and create a silky sauce.
7. Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
8. Remove from heat and fold in sour cream, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper until fully incorporated.
9. Gently combine cooked noodles, flaked tuna, green peas, and most of the cheddar cheese with the creamy sauce.
10. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly and topping with remaining cheese.
11. Toss panko breadcrumbs with olive oil until lightly coated, then sprinkle across the casserole surface.
12. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the top turns golden and edges become crispy.
13. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh chopped parsley and serving.

Notes

• Choose high-quality canned tuna packed in water for a lighter, fresher taste and less greasiness.
• Swap egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or whole wheat noodles to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Toast panko breadcrumbs beforehand in a skillet for extra crispiness and deeper golden color.
• Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier protein-packed alternative that maintains creamy texture.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 470 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 520 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg