Discover a modern take on a timeless classic! This Lightened Up Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole delivers all the comforting, creamy, and cheesy flavors you adored in childhood, now with thoughtful ingredient swaps for a healthier twist. It’s the perfect family dinner that brings nostalgia to your table without the guilt.
Craving more delicious seafood options? Dive into these Grilled Shrimp Tacos – they’re incredibly flavorful and surprisingly simple to whip up for a weeknight meal or a weekend treat.
Reimagining a Childhood Classic: The Ultimate Lightened Up Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Stepping away from seasonal recipes for a moment, I’m thrilled to bring you something truly special – a dish that embodies comfort and echoes cherished memories. This isn’t just any tuna noodle casserole; it’s a nostalgic journey back to your childhood kitchen, but with a delightful, healthier update. Forget any less-than-stellar experiences you might have had with dry, bland versions from the past. Our Lightened Up Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a revelation: rich, supremely creamy, and bursting with irresistible cheesy goodness, ensuring every bite is ultra-tasty and deeply satisfying.
Why This Healthy Tuna Noodle Casserole Will Become Your New Go-To
While seafood might not be a daily feature on my blog, tuna holds a special place in my heart for its versatility, affordability, and fantastic protein content. I wanted to craft a recipe that offers a delicious and easy alternative for everyone, especially for those observing meat-free Fridays or simply looking to incorporate more seafood into their diet. This casserole fits the bill perfectly, proving that healthier eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or comfort. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights, special occasions like Lent, or whenever you need a hearty, family-friendly meal. And for those planning ahead, it’s even freezable, making meal prep a breeze!
From Childhood Favorite to Healthier Home Run
Tuna has always been a staple in my life. Growing up, tuna salad sandwiches were a regular lunch highlight, a simple pleasure I still enjoy today. My mom also made tuna noodle casserole, though I distinctly recall it lacking one crucial ingredient: cheese. If you know anything about me, you know my love for cheese runs deep. I could happily make an entire meal out of a cheese board! So, when I set out to create my own tuna noodle casserole recipe, adding plenty of gooey, melted cheese was non-negotiable.
The inspiration for this particular Lightened Up Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole came from a classic recipe I discovered in a BHG magazine. However, I knew I could enhance it further. I embarked on a mission to significantly lighten the recipe, aiming to reduce calories, fat, and sodium without compromising on taste or that essential creamy texture. With warmer weather approaching, it felt like the perfect time to recommit to a healthier lifestyle, and this updated casserole proved to be the ideal stepping stone. It’s incredibly easy to make, yet delivers an impressive depth of flavor that rivals its traditional counterparts, all while being a much smarter choice.
Family Approved: Even for Picky Eaters!
The true test of any family recipe is, of course, the family itself. I’m thrilled to report that this casserole was an absolute triumph! My husband enthusiastically went for two servings, my daughter devoured her portion, and even my notoriously picky son, convinced it was “chicken,” gobbled his up without a fuss. (Sometimes, a little parental creativity is necessary, and at this stage, any effort to get them to eat a wholesome meal is a win!) Knowing it pleases everyone, from the most discerning adult palate to the pickiest little diner, truly makes this a recipe to cherish.
The Benefits of a Freezable, Adaptable, and Healthy Tuna Bake
One of the standout features of this Lightened Up Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole is its incredible adaptability and convenience. It’s a fantastic freezer meal, allowing you to prepare it in advance for busy evenings or for a thoughtful gesture to a friend with a new baby. Simply assemble, freeze, and then bake when ready for a comforting, homemade meal without the hassle. This casserole is designed to simplify your life while still delivering on flavor and nutrition.
What truly sets this lightened-up version apart is its natural creaminess, achieved without a single can of condensed soup. Instead, a simple roux with nonfat milk and chicken stock creates a velvety, flavorful base that perfectly coats the noodles and tuna. This allows the natural flavors to shine, complemented by two types of cheese for that ultimate comfort food experience. And don’t forget the satisfying crunch of a whole wheat panko and Parmesan topping – it’s pure perfection!
Tips for Crafting Your Perfect Tuna Noodle Casserole
Achieving the best Lightened Up Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole is easier than you think. Start with good quality wide egg noodles; cooking them al dente ensures they don’t get mushy during baking. When preparing your creamy sauce, gradually stirring in the milk and chicken stock prevents lumps, yielding a silky smooth texture. Don’t be shy with the Dijon mustard – it adds a subtle tang that elevates the entire dish. For an extra boost of flavor and nutrition, feel free to customize the vegetables. While red peppers, celery, and onion provide a wonderful base, you could easily swap the red peppers for peas or corn, or even add sliced mushrooms. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility to suit your family’s preferences.
Another tip for a perfect golden-brown topping is to ensure your panko mixture is evenly distributed over the casserole. The melted butter helps it crisp up beautifully in the oven, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy interior. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to achieve that ideal crunch without over-browning. This thoughtful combination of a rich, homemade sauce and a crisp topping truly makes this tuna noodle casserole a standout dish.
As this little corner of the internet grows, I’m always eager to hear from you. What kind of recipes would you love to see more of? More seafood, comforting freezer meals, slow cooker wonders, or grilling favorites? Your suggestions are invaluable in helping me create content that truly resonates with my readers. In the meantime, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this Lightened Up Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole very soon – perhaps even tomorrow! It’s an ideal, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day, and especially great for Friday nights or during Lent.
8 votes
Lightened Up Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Prep
Cook
Total
Author Strawberry Blondie Kitchen- Megan Marlowe
Yield 6 1 cup servings
Delicious, creamy and made healthier with a few ingredient swaps, this Lightened Up Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole has all the flavors you loved from when you were a kid!
Ingredients
3 cups dried wide egg noodles
3 tablespoons butter
1 cup red sweet pepper, chopped
1 cup celery, chopped
1/2 cup onion, chopped
3 tablespoons flour
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 1/4 cups nonfat milk
1 cup chicken stock, unsalted
2 (5 ounces cans) chunk white tuna (water pack), drained
4 ounces reduced fat cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon snipped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray an 8.5 x 11-inch casserole dish with cooking spray and set aside.
2. Prepare the wide egg noodles according to package directions, cooking them until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped red pepper, celery, and onion, cooking until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the flour, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
5. Gradually whisk in the nonfat milk and chicken stock, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the drained tuna and the shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese until the cheese is completely melted and the mixture is well combined.
7. Add the cooked and drained egg noodles to the saucepan with the creamy tuna mixture. Stir gently to ensure the noodles are evenly coated. Pour the entire mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
8. In a small bowl, combine the whole wheat panko breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and snipped fresh parsley. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of melted butter and mix until the breadcrumbs are lightly moistened.
9. Evenly sprinkle the panko mixture over the top of the casserole.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
*Adapted from Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole.
Courses Main
Cuisine Seafood
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size 1 cup
Amount Per Serving | ||
|---|---|---|
Calories 340 | ||
% Daily Value | ||
Total Fat 14 g | 22% | |
Saturated Fat 8 g | 40% | |
Trans Fat 85 g | ||
Sodium 452 mg | 19% | |
Total Carbohydrates 34 g | 11% | |
Dietary Fiber 4 g | 16% | |
Sugars 9 g | ||
Protein 24 g | 48% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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