Creamy Tuna And Noodles
Creamy Tuna and Noodles combines tender pasta with a rich, cheesy sauce, tender peas, and flaky tuna, making it a comforting, family-friendly dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles according to package instructions.
- In a large saucepan, melt margarine and cook chopped onion until tender.
- Stir in flour and salt, then blend with milk.
- Bring to the boiling point, then simmer, stirring constantly, until sauce is thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in shredded cheese, cooked peas, drained and flaked tuna, chopped pimiento, and cooked noodles.
- Heat through, but do not boil.
Tips & Substitutions
To add more flavor, consider sautéing garlic with the onions or incorporating herbs like dill or parsley. If you don't have margarine, butter works well as a substitute. For a lighter version, you can use low-fat cheese and reduced-fat milk. You can also swap the tuna with shredded chicken for a different protein option, similar to the Rio Grande Tuna Noodle Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy tuna and noodles dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For added texture, consider serving it with crispy garlic bread on the side. If you're looking for more seafood inspiration, browse more American recipes that feature tuna. A glass of white wine can also complement the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Tuna And Noodles contains roughly 1718 calories, with 29g protein, 212g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (66% of the Daily Value), protein (59% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the melting characteristics may vary slightly. For a sharper taste, try using pepper jack cheese. Mixing different cheeses can also enhance the creaminess and flavor of the dish.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this creamy tuna and noodles gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening the sauce. Ensure that the noodles are gluten-free as well by using rice noodles or gluten-free pasta, which will still provide a satisfying texture.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the tuna and adding more veggies, such as mushrooms or bell peppers. For protein, consider using chickpeas or tofu. Additionally, replace the milk with a plant-based alternative, like almond or oat milk, and choose a vegetarian cheese option to maintain the creamy texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).