Lightened-Up Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe

Revisit a classic comfort food with our Lightened-Up Tuna Noodle Casserole that’s just as creamy and satisfying as you remember.

This family favorite uses whole grain pasta and reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup to create a healthier version that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

Packed with protein-rich tuna and extra vegetables, then topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, this casserole proves that comfort food can be nutritious.

Perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals, this dish brings back childhood memories with a healthy twist.

Lightened-Up Tuna Noodle Casserole

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 310 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Casserole:

• 12 oz whole grain egg noodles
• 2 cans 5 oz each chunk light tuna in water, drained
• 2 cans reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup low-fat milk
• 2 cups frozen peas and carrots
• 1 onion diced
• 2 celery stalks diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste

For the Topping:

• 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter melted
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease 9×13 baking dish.
• Cook noodles according to package directions, slightly undercooked.
• Meanwhile, heat oil in large skillet. Cook onion and celery until soft.
• Add garlic, cook 1 minute more.
• In large bowl, mix soup, milk, vegetables, tuna, cheese, and seasonings.
• Add cooked noodles, stir to combine.
• Transfer to baking dish.
• Mix breadcrumb topping, sprinkle over casserole.
• Bake 20 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Notes

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 4g
• Fat: 9g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Sugar: 3g

Keyword Noodles, Tuna

Equipment Needed

• 9×13 baking dish
• Large pot for pasta
• Colander
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon

Cooking Tips

• Don’t overcook the noodles
• Drain tuna very well
• Use frozen vegetables straight from freezer
• Season well – noodles need extra flavor
• Let rest 5 minutes before serving

Possible Substitutions

• Whole Grain Noodles: Regular egg noodles
• Cream of Mushroom: Any cream soup
• Frozen Vegetables: Canned or fresh
• Cheddar Cheese: Any melting cheese
• Breadcrumbs: Crushed crackers

Storage

Store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat in microwave or oven until hot.