Comforting Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe: A Family Favorite

Comfort arrives with this hearty tuna noodle casserole that feels like a warm hug from grandma’s kitchen.

Creamy textures and crispy breadcrumb edges promise pure satisfaction for hungry souls.

Pasta and flaky fish create a delightful harmony in every bite.

Weeknight dinners just became incredibly simple and delicious.

Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry will make magic happen.

Nostalgia meets modern cooking in this classic dish that never goes out of style.

Jump into this recipe and rediscover why home cooking always wins.

Ways to Jazz It Up with a Twist

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace cheddar cheese with nutritional yeast and use cashew cream instead of coconut milk for a creamy, plant-based version.
• Protein Power Boost: Swap tuna with shredded rotisserie chicken or canned salmon for a different protein profile and added flavor complexity.
• Mediterranean Magic: Add chopped kalamata olives, diced sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese to transform the casserole with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients.
• Low-Carb Solution: Substitute gluten-free noodles with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice to create a lighter, lower-carbohydrate alternative that maintains the dish's comforting essence.

Ideas for a Simple, Comforting Plate

• Cozy Dinner Companion: Pair this hearty tuna casserole with a crisp green salad dressed in light vinaigrette to balance the rich, creamy texture.
• Protein Power-Up: Add a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to boost nutritional value and create a complete, satisfying meal.
• Comfort Food Celebration: Serve with warm, crusty gluten-free bread to soak up the delicious sauce and provide an extra layer of comfort to this classic dish.
• Wine and Dine: Choose a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the creamy casserole and cut through its richness.

Tips for Saving It for Another Day

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days maximum, ensuring the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness.
• Transfer cooled casserole to a freezer-safe dish, cover with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label the container with the date to track storage time.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

FAQs

• What makes this tuna noodle casserole gluten-free?

The recipe uses gluten-free noodles and gluten-free all-purpose flour, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy this classic comfort dish safely.

• Can I substitute the coconut milk with another dairy alternative?

Yes, you can use unsweetened almond milk or cashew milk as a replacement for coconut milk while maintaining a similar creamy texture.

• Is this recipe considered dairy-free?

No, the recipe contains cheddar cheese, which makes it not completely dairy-free. For a dairy-free version, you’ll need to omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Tuna Casserole’s Timeless Appeal

• Quick and Easy Prep: Whip up this comforting tuna noodle casserole with minimal cooking skills and simple ingredients that come together in no time.
• Dietary Flexibility: Perfect for gluten-sensitive individuals, featuring gluten-free noodles and adaptable ingredients that don't compromise on taste or texture.
• Nutritious Comfort Food: Packed with protein from tuna, vegetables like peas and mushrooms, and a creamy sauce that makes healthy eating deliciously satisfying.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal dishes and straightforward cooking process make this recipe a go-to for busy home cooks seeking a stress-free meal solution.

Ingredients That Keep It Classic

• Tuna: A flavorful seafood protein that adds richness to the casserole.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Provides a savory liquid base for the sauce.

• Gluten-Free Noodles: Serves as the base carbohydrate for the casserole.
• Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the sauce and create a smooth texture.

• Full-Fat Canned Coconut Milk: Creates a creamy sauce with a hint of coconut flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp, cheesy topping that melts beautifully.

• Onion, Mushrooms, Garlic: Provide depth of flavor and aromatic base for the dish.
• Peas: Adds a pop of color and subtle sweetness to the casserole.

• Italian Seasoning: Brings a blend of herbs to enhance the overall taste.
• Sea Salt: Helps balance and enhance the flavors.
• Rice Vinegar, Cider Vinegar, White Wine: Adds a tangy brightness to the sauce.
• Avocado Oil: Used for cooking and as a topping oil.

• Super Fine Almond Flour: Creates a crunchy, nutty topping for extra texture.

How to Put It All Together Easily

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 375F so it’s ready for baking magic.

Step 2: Prepare Noodle Base

Cook gluten-free noodles following package instructions, then drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Veggie Flavor Builders

• Finely chopped onion
• Sliced mushrooms

Cook until onions turn translucent and mushrooms become tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Enhance Aromatic Profile

Toss in minced garlic and Italian seasoning, letting them dance and release their fragrant essence for 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Create Silky Sauce Foundation

Sprinkle gluten-free flour to form a roux, then gradually introduce chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps.

Step 6: Develop Creamy Texture

Pour in coconut milk, stirring until sauce transforms into a luxurious, smooth consistency.

Step 7: Balance Flavor Profile

Add rice vinegar and season with sea salt to elevate taste dimensions.

Step 8: Incorporate Protein And Extras

• Peas
• Undrained tuna

Ensure everything mingles beautifully.

Step 9: Assemble Casserole

Combine cooked noodles with sauce mixture in a large bowl, then transfer to a greased baking dish.

Step 10: Add Cheesy Topping

Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese generously across the surface.

Step 11: Create Crunchy Optional Layer

Mix super fine almond flour with avocado oil and dust over cheese layer for extra texture.

Step 12: Bake To Perfection

Slide into preheated oven and bake 20-25 minutes until top turns golden and edges bubble with excitement.

Step 13: Rest And Serve

Remove from oven and let cool slightly before diving into this comforting meal.

Smart Tips for Creamy, Cozy Results

• Select noodles made from rice, corn, or quinoa to ensure a perfect texture and maintain the casserole's authentic taste.
• Add a splash of white wine or a dash of Dijon mustard to enhance the sauce's complexity and create a more sophisticated profile.
• Whisk the coconut milk and broth slowly to create a smooth, creamy sauce that won't curdle or become grainy.
• Drain tuna well and pat peas dry to prevent excess liquid from making the casserole soggy and maintain a perfect consistency.
• Toast the almond flour mixture briefly in a skillet before sprinkling to create an extra-crunchy and golden-brown surface.

Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty tuna noodle casserole brings comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen, blending creamy textures with nostalgic flavors. Crispy breadcrumb topping and tender pasta create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 3 (5-ounce) cans tuna in olive oil, undrained
• 12 ounces gluten-free noodles
• 1 cup peas (canned or frozen)
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese

Sauce and Liquid Ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk
• 3 tablespoons gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or cider vinegar or 1/4 cup white wine

Vegetables and Seasonings:

• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 10 ounces baby bella mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 3/4 teaspoon sea salt

Optional Topping:

• 1/2 cup super fine almond flour
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 375F (190C) for optimal casserole preparation.
2. Cook gluten-free noodles per package directions, then drain thoroughly and reserve.
3. Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium temperature, sautéing finely chopped onions and sliced mushrooms until onions become translucent and mushrooms soften, approximately 5-7 minutes.
4. Introduce minced garlic and Italian seasoning, allowing aromatics to bloom for 1-2 minutes.
5. Integrate gluten-free flour to create a smooth roux, then gradually whisk in chicken broth to prevent clumping.
6. Stream coconut milk into the mixture, stirring continuously until sauce reaches a creamy consistency.
7. Enhance flavor profile with rice vinegar and adjust seasoning using sea salt.
8. Incorporate peas and tuna, gently folding to distribute ingredients evenly.
9. Combine sauce with prepared noodles in a mixing bowl, ensuring thorough coating.
10. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading evenly.
11. Distribute grated cheddar cheese across the surface for a rich, melted topping.
12. Create optional crispy layer by blending almond flour with avocado oil and sprinkling over cheese.
13. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbling around edges.
14. Allow casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to help set and enhance flavor melding.

Notes

• Swap protein by using canned chicken, salmon, or plant-based alternatives for dietary preferences or variety.
• Toast almond flour topping before sprinkling for extra crunch and deeper nutty flavor.
• Create dairy-free version by replacing cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese substitute.
• Enhance dish’s nutrition by adding chopped spinach or kale during vegetable sautéing stage for extra greens.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 345
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg