Skinny Tuna Noodle Casserole
Low fat and veggie filled tuna casserole
Low fat and veggie filled tuna casserole
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp whole wheat seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 cup 1% milk
- 6 oz no yolk noodles (you can use ronzoni healthy harve or brown rice pasta for gluten free)
- 1 medium onion minced fine
- 3 tbsp flour (gluten free use rice flour)
- 1 3/4 cups fat free chicken broth
- 1 oz sherry (optional)
- 10 oz sliced baby bella mushrooms
- 1 cup frozen petite peas (thawed)
- 2 (5 oz) cans tuna in water drained (i used albacore)
- 4 oz 50% reduced fat sharp cheddar (i used cabot)
- butter flavored cooking spray
- 2 tbsp parmesean cheese
- Carbohydrate 1.79982999957098 g
- Cholesterol 41.5299999907011 mg
- Fat 17.1348799969768 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 9.16413999593598 g
- Saturated Fat 9.56128099817182 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Recipe (1239g)
- Sodium 3480.00799983843 mg
- Sugar 1.79982999957098 g
- Trans Fat 2.37252099981392 g
- Calories 194 calories
Step-by-step
- Cook noodles in salted water until al dente, or slightly undercooked by 2 minutes. Set aside.
- Melt the butter in a large deep skillet. Add onions and cook on medium heat until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the flour and a pinch of salt and stir well, cooking an additional 2-3 minutes on medium-low heat.
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Lightly spray 9 x 12 casserole with butter flavored cooking spray.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth until well combined, increasing heat to medium and whisking well for 30 seconds, then add the milk and bring to a boil. When boiling, add sherry, mushrooms and petite peas, adjust salt and pepper to taste and simmer on medium, mixing occasionally until it thickens (about 6-7 minutes). Add drained tuna, stirring another minute.
- Remove from heat and add 1 cup reduced fat sharp cheddar and mix well until it melts. Add the noodles to the sauce and mix well until evenly coated.
- Pour into casserole and top with parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Spray a little more cooking spray and top and bake for about 20 - 25 minutes.
- Place under the broiler a few minutes to get the crumbs crisp (careful not to burn).
Skinny Tuna Noodle Casserole: A Weeknight Delight
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy, delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of school pickups, homework help, and the general chaos of family life. That's why I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are quick, easy, and most importantly, nutritious. This Skinny Tuna Noodle Casserole fits the bill perfectly. It’s a lighter take on a classic comfort food, bursting with flavor and significantly lower in fat than traditional versions. Forget the heavy cream and excessive cheese; this recipe prioritizes fresh vegetables and lean protein, making it a guilt-free indulgence. The whole family loves it, and the best part? It's ready in under an hour!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or what your family prefers. Instead of baby bella mushrooms, use cremini or shiitake. If you're gluten-free, opt for brown rice pasta instead of the no-yolk noodles. The possibilities are endless! I often add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill before baking for an extra layer of freshness. And don't shy away from experimenting with different cheeses – a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack works wonders. This recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
Beyond the Recipe: Making Weeknight Meals Work
Meal prepping is my secret weapon in the battle against weeknight dinner stress. On Sundays, I often take some time to chop vegetables and pre-measure ingredients for recipes like this casserole. This simple act saves precious minutes during the week, making it easier to get a healthy and satisfying dinner on the table even on the busiest days. I also find it helpful to have a few go-to recipes that I can rely on when time is short. Having a repertoire of easy, healthy meals avoids the last-minute scramble for a quick takeout option.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavor
The ingredients list is straightforward and uses readily available pantry staples. The combination of tuna, vegetables, and reduced-fat cheese creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The whole wheat breadcrumbs add a satisfying crunch to the top, and the subtle hint of sherry (optional) elevates the dish to a whole new level.
More Than Just a Meal: A Family Tradition
This Skinny Tuna Noodle Casserole has become a family favorite, a comforting dish that brings us together around the dinner table. It's more than just a meal; it’s a shared experience, a moment to disconnect from the day's stresses and connect with the people we love. The aroma alone fills our home with warmth and anticipation, creating a happy atmosphere around mealtimes. It’s a simple recipe that delivers big on flavor and family time – a winning combination in my book!
Beyond the Kitchen: Finding Balance
I understand that life as a busy mom is a constant balancing act. We juggle work, family, and a million other responsibilities. But it's important to remember that taking time for ourselves and our families, even in small ways, is essential. Cooking a healthy and delicious meal, like this Skinny Tuna Noodle Casserole, is one way to nurture ourselves and our loved ones. It's a small act of self-care, a way to show that we care about our well-being and the well-being of those we cherish.
Tips for Success:
- Use good quality tuna for the best flavor.
- Don't overcook the noodles; they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese to your liking.
- If you don't have sherry, you can omit it or substitute with a little extra chicken broth.
- For a creamier casserole, add a splash of milk or cream at the end.
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does. It's a true weeknight winner, a delicious and healthy option that's perfect for busy schedules. Happy cooking!
