Tuna And Noodles Au Gratin
Creamy tuna and noodles baked with cheese and seasonings, offering comforting flavors perfect for a quick family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make a white sauce by melting butter, then stirring in flour, seasonings, mushroom soup, and milk until smooth.
- Add grated cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
- Place flaked tuna in a baking dish, pour part of the sauce over it.
- Add cooked noodles to the dish, then cover with the remaining sauce.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of cream or milk to the white sauce. If you don't have mushroom soup, you can substitute it with a homemade mushroom sauce or even a different cream soup. To enhance the flavor, try adding sautéed onions or garlic to the butter before mixing in the flour. This dish can also be made with other proteins like chicken for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Tuna and Noodles Au Gratin pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread or a light soup to start. For a fun twist, consider pairing it with Dennis' Boiled Lobster for a seafood-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from drying out. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna And Noodles Au Gratin contains roughly 548 calories, with 33g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (65% of the Daily Value) and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2200mg per serving (96% 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 fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna, but it will require cooking first. Sauté it until fully cooked, then flake it before adding to the dish. This will give a fresher taste compared to canned tuna.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for its flavor, but you can also use mozzarella for a milder taste or a blend of cheeses for added complexity. Just ensure it melts well for the best texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish and assemble it the day before, then cover and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
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).