My Mom’s Awesome Tuna Noodle Casserole
If you’re in search of a delightful twist on the traditional tuna casserole, you’ve found it in this recipe. My Mom’s Tuna Noodle Casserole stands apart from the ordinary with its rich, custard-like texture and heartwarming flavors that remind me of home. This version is a far cry from the potato chip-topped varieties and is more akin to a savory strata. Its creamy, cheesy goodness makes it a standout dish that not only pleases the palate on the first day but also tastes even better the next. The best part? It freezes wonderfully, making it a great make-ahead meal. I recommend using American cheese over Velveeta for the most authentic flavor.
Ingredients
- Egg Noodles – 3 cups (dry)
- Milk – ½ cup
- American Cheese – 1 cup, shredded
- Butter – 1 ¾ tablespoons
- Onion – 1 ½ cups, finely chopped
- Tuna – 2 cans (6 oz each), drained
- Pepper – 1 teaspoon
- Eggs – 2 large
- Caraway Seeds – ¼ teaspoon
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
Instructions
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Prepare the Noodles: Begin by cooking the egg noodles according to the instructions on the package. Once they’re al dente, drain them thoroughly and set them aside.
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking once you’re done preparing the casserole.
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Sauté the Onion: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook until they become translucent and slightly golden. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
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Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the sautéed onions, shredded American cheese, drained tuna, milk, eggs, pepper, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. For a less messy process, you might want to combine everything in the mixing bowl first before transferring it to the baking dish.
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Prepare for Baking: Transfer the noodle mixture into a 13×9-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and sprinkle caraway seeds on top. To add a touch of color, you can also dust the top with a bit of paprika.
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Create a Water Bath: Place the baking dish into a larger pan. Fill the larger pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the baking dish. This water bath helps cook the casserole evenly and prevents it from drying out.
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Bake the Casserole: Slide the prepared dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 1 ½ hours, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
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Cool and Serve: After baking, let the casserole stand for about 5 minutes to firm up. Cut into serving pieces and enjoy!
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Serving Suggestion: For a complete meal, serve your casserole with a fresh, crisp salad on the side.
This casserole is perfect for cozy family dinners and is a great option for meal prepping. The flavors meld beautifully, and it’s a comforting dish that brings a touch of nostalgia with every bite. Whether you’re serving it fresh from the oven or reheating it from the freezer, it remains a delightful and satisfying choice. Enjoy! 🍽️✨
