Description
This easy Tuna Casserole recipe combines creamy plant-based cheese, smoky turkey bacon, and a natural gelling agent to create a comforting and flavorful dish. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy meals to share, it offers simplicity, a creamy texture, and satisfying nutrition all in one.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups egg noodles (or whole wheat/gluten-free noodles)
- 1 can tuna in water, drained
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded plant-based cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1/2 cup grape juice
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta and Bacon: Cook the egg noodles in salted boiling water until just tender. Drain and set aside. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked turkey bacon until golden and fragrant, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet with bacon drippings, add the finely chopped onion and diced celery. Sauté until softened and translucent to build the flavor base.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Deglaze the pan using grape juice to lift browned bits. Stir in plant-based milk and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Season with salt and pepper. Gradually whisk in the natural gelling agent, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Combine All Ingredients: Turn off the heat. Gently fold in the drained tuna, cooked noodles, crispy turkey bacon, and shredded plant-based cheese. Toss until the cheese melts slightly and everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Bake for Perfection: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle additional plant-based cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
- Drain the tuna well to avoid a watery casserole.
- Do not overcook noodles; slightly undercooked pasta will finish cooking in the oven.
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or dill to brighten flavors before serving.
- Let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking for easier slicing.
- Smoked turkey bacon adds depth without overpowering the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: tuna casserole, plant-based cheese, turkey bacon, creamy casserole, quick dinner, easy weeknight meal, gluten-free casserole
