Description
This comforting Tuna Noodle Casserole features tender egg noodles, flaky canned tuna, creamy (plant-based) cheese sauce, and smoky turkey bacon. With fresh peas, onion, and garlic enhancing the flavors, it comes together quickly for a cozy weeknight meal. Customizable and family-friendly, this dish is perfect for a satisfying, fuss-free dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Creamy (Plant-Based) Cheese Sauce
- 1 cup (plant-based) cheese, shredded or cubed
- 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent
Seasonings
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Optional Toppings
- 1/4 cup crushed smoked turkey bacon or plant-based breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Prepare the Noodles and Veggies: Cook the egg noodles in salted boiling water until just al dente, then drain and set aside. Meanwhile, heat a little olive oil in a pan, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add the frozen peas and cook until warmed through.
- Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a separate pan, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crisp. Remove from heat and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Creamy (Plant-Based) Cheese Sauce: Combine the (plant-based) cheese, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), and natural gelling agent in a saucepan. Heat gently, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens into a smooth, velvety coating.
- Combine Everything: Gently fold the cooked noodles, drained tuna, sautéed vegetables, and chopped smoked turkey bacon into the cheese sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika, mixing until evenly coated.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. For extra crunch, sprinkle crushed smoked turkey bacon or plant-based breadcrumbs on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for around 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
- Do not overcook noodles initially; they will cook further in the oven.
- Ensure tuna is well-drained to prevent excess moisture.
- Use apple cider vinegar (natural) sparingly to balance flavors without overpowering.
- Add crunchy toppings for contrast and texture.
- Taste the cheese sauce before combining to adjust seasoning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Tuna Noodle Casserole, Plant-Based Cheese, Smoked Turkey Bacon, Comfort Food, Gluten-Free Casserole