Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Name: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz egg noodles; 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1/2 cup milk; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp butter, melted; Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Isabella

🌟Life, Love, and Gastronomy 🍷

Jump to Recipe

Enjoy a comforting and delicious Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole made with tender egg noodles, creamy sauce, and topped with crispy breadcrumbs. This quick and satisfying dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, bringing together wholesome ingredients like tuna, peas, and cheese for a family-friendly meal everyone will love.

Ingredients:

12 oz egg noodles

2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

1/2 cup milk

1 cup frozen peas

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

2 tbsp butter, melted

Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook the Noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.

Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, frozen peas, cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Combine Noodles and Filling: Add the cooked egg noodles to the mixture and gently toss to coat evenly.

Assemble the Casserole: Pour the noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle over the top of the casserole.

Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Serving Tips:

Garnish: For a pop of color and freshness, garnish the casserole with chopped fresh parsley or green onions before serving. This adds a nice touch and enhances the dish’s visual appeal.

Accompaniments: Serve the casserole with a side of garlic bread, green salad, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. These sides complement the flavors of the casserole beautifully.

Portion Control: Use a large spoon or spatula to serve generous portions. If you’re serving a crowd, consider using a serving dish that allows guests to help themselves.

Reheating: If you have leftovers, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal. Just be sure to cover it to prevent it from drying out.

Storage Tips:

Cooling: Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.

Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: If you want to save it for later, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Thawing and Reheating: When ready to eat frozen casserole, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through (about 25-30 minutes) or microwave individual servings until hot.

Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, avoid overcooking to maintain the texture of the noodles and the creaminess of the sauce. If the casserole appears dry after reheating, add a splash of milk to restore moisture.

Related Recipes:

Adding Milk to Noodles: The Creamy Trend Explained

FAQs:

Can I use fresh or frozen tuna instead of canned tuna?

Yes, you can use fresh or frozen tuna! If using fresh tuna, make sure to cook it first before adding it to the casserole. If using frozen tuna, thaw it completely and ensure it is cooked and flaked before mixing it into the casserole.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

If you prefer not to use cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with homemade white sauce, cream of chicken soup, or even a can of cream of celery soup. For a dairy-free option, look for dairy-free cream soups available at most grocery stores.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s been chilled in the fridge.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! To make a gluten-free version, substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta. Also, ensure that the cream of mushroom soup and breadcrumbs are gluten-free. There are many gluten-free pasta and soup options available that work well in this casserole.

Conclusion:

This Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming dish that brings comfort to the dinner table. With its creamy sauce, cheesy goodness, and crunchy breadcrumb topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re in a rush or planning a cozy dinner, this casserole is the perfect choice. Try it tonight, and enjoy the delicious flavors and simple preparation!

📖 Recipe: