This fresh tuna casserole recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of the sea in a comforting and satisfying casserole. The combination of fresh tuna, creamy cheese sauce, tender egg noodles, and sliced cherry tomatoes creates a dish that is both hearty and flavorful making it perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a potluck gathering with family and friends.
Using fresh tuna in a casserole recipe can elevate the dish to a whole new level. Unlike canned tuna, fresh tuna has a richer, meatier flavor and a firmer texture that holds up well in casseroles. It also provides a healthy dose of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health.
When using fresh tuna in a casserole recipe, it is important to choose high-quality tuna like our Bluefin Tuna Poke or Wild Albacore Loin that is sustainably sourced and fresh. Look for firm, red or pink fleshed tuna steaks or fillets with a fresh, oceanic smell. Be sure to remove any skin, bones, and dark bloodlines before using it in the casserole.
Fresh Tuna Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 2 cans of fresh tuna (in water), drained
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup sliced cherry tomatoes
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until it is lightly browned and fragrant.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until they are melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked egg noodles and fresh tuna to the skillet and stir until they are coated with the cheese sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Slice the cherry tomatoes and arrange them on top of the casserole. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.