Description
This Tuna Noodle Casserole offers a comforting, creamy, and savory meal with tender egg noodles, smoky turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, and a velvety sauce enhanced by vegetarian Worcestershire sauce and natural gelling agent. Ready in under 45 minutes, it is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners and can be adapted easily to suit dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna, flaked and drained
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
- 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups plant-based milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup peas or mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Optional Garnishes and Add-ins
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives
- Extra plant-based cheese for topping
- Plant-based breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping
- Diced bell peppers, celery, or carrots
- Red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for spice
Instructions
- Cook the noodles and turkey bacon: Boil egg noodles in salted water until just tender, aiming for al dente texture to prevent mushiness after baking. In a separate pan, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crispy, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the creamy sauce: Sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic in a pan until fragrant and translucent. Sprinkle flour over the veggies and cook briefly to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the plant-based milk, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and natural gelling agent. Cook gently while whisking until the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or the pan with sauce, add the cooked noodles, flaked tuna, peas or chosen vegetables, chopped turkey bacon, and plant-based cheese. Stir gently but thoroughly ensuring every ingredient is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Bake to perfection: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish. Top with extra plant-based cheese and, if desired, plant-based breadcrumbs for a golden crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until bubbly and slightly browned on top.
Notes
- Do not overcook noodles; al dente texture prevents sogginess after baking.
- Drain tuna thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Use high-quality plant-based cheese for best melting and flavor.
- Season the sauce before baking and adjust salt or vegetarian Worcestershire sauce as needed.
- Adding plant-based breadcrumbs on top before baking creates a satisfying crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: tuna noodle casserole, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, creamy casserole, dairy-free casserole, quick dinner, comfort food, gluten-free casserole
