Tuna Casserole Recipe Without Soup

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 10, 2025

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Tuna Casserole Recipe Without Soup: A Creamy, Dreamy Delight

Are you ready to ditch the canned soup and elevate your tuna casserole to a whole new level of deliciousness? This recipe delivers a creamy, dreamy, and incredibly flavorful tuna casserole without relying on condensed soup. It's surprisingly easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck. Get ready to impress your family and friends!

Why Skip the Soup?

While canned soup provides convenience, homemade tuna casserole offers superior flavor and control over ingredients. This recipe allows you to create a creamy sauce from scratch, tailoring the seasonings and richness to your exact preferences. You'll appreciate the fresher taste and the satisfaction of crafting a truly delicious meal.

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe serves 6-8 people.

• For the Creamy Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
• For the Casserole:
  • 2 (5 ounce) cans tuna in water, drained
  • 2 cups cooked egg noodles or other pasta of your choice
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or your favorite vegetables)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended for extra crunch)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Instructions: Step-by-Step to Tuna Casserole Perfection

1. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens. Reduce heat to low and stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and nutmeg (if using).

2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, drained tuna, peas and carrots, and creamy sauce. Mix well to coat everything evenly.

3. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the tuna mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.

4. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.

5. Crispy Topping: In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the bread crumbs over the top and drizzle with melted butter for a golden-brown, crunchy topping.

6. Serve and Enjoy! Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce for a little kick.
• Add protein: Incorporate cooked diced chicken or ham for a heartier casserole.
• Different vegetables: Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, mushrooms, or corn.
• Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites.
• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

This upgraded tuna casserole recipe without soup is sure to become a family favorite. The creamy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and flavorful additions create a dish that's both comforting and sophisticated. Enjoy!