Looking for a comforting, budget-friendly, and delicious dinner idea? This Tuna Noodle Casserole is your answer. Packed with tender egg noodles, creamy sauce, savory tuna, and a crispy golden topping, it’s a quick dinner recipe that satisfies every craving. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal-prepping, this easy recipe uses pantry staples and comes together with minimal fuss. Whether you’re hunting for cozy food ideas, an easy dinner for the family, or nostalgic comfort food, this casserole checks every box.
This Tuna Noodle Casserole offers so many appealing elements. First, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for those evenings when time is short, yet you want to serve something that feels special. The combination of crunchy toppings with a velvety interior creates an exciting texture contrast that everyone in your household will love. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to utilize canned tuna, making it a wholesome meal option that’s also pocket-friendly.
What’s more, this casserole can easily be customized to fit your family’s taste. You can experiment by including different veggies, adding more cheese for a richer flavor, or even modifying the topping to suit your preferences. Dreaming of a comforting dish to bring nostalgia flooding back? This Tuna Noodle Casserole not only fills bellies but also warms hearts!
Why You’ll Love This Tuna Noodle Casserole
- Easy to make: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for cooks of any skill level.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying textures.
- Budget-friendly: Utilizing pantry staples like noodles and canned tuna means this meal won’t break the bank.
- Versatile: The recipe invites countless variations; feel free to add your favorite ingredients!
- Leftover-friendly: Great for meal prep, and it’s just as delicious (if not better) the next day.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into making your Tuna Noodle Casserole, it’s crucial to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking once your casserole is assembled. You will need a large pot for boiling the noodles, a colander for draining, and a large skillet to sauté the veggies and cook the sauce.
Make sure to have a 9×13-inch baking dish greased and ready; this size is perfect for maximizing the casserole’s golden crust. Keep a spatula handy for mixing, and measuring cups and spoons will help you ensure accurate ingredient ratios. By having all your tools at hand and being organized, you set yourself up for a successful cooking experience!
Ingredients
- 12 oz wide egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen diced carrots
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained and flaked
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs
- Fresh chopped parsley or green onions, optional garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Noodles
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the egg noodles, ensuring they’re evenly submerged. Cook them for about 7-9 minutes, or until al dente, then drain them in a colander and set them aside. The slight firmness in the noodles will hold up beautifully when mixed with creamy sauce and baked.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a spacious skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the diced onion and sauté until they soften, usually around 5 minutes. The aroma will be delightful as you cook. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then, incorporate the frozen peas and carrots, stirring until just thawed and slightly tender—this should take about 3-5 minutes. The colorful veggies not only enhance the dish visually but also add a fresh, earthy flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Sauce Ingredients
Now, it’s time to build that flavorful sauce! Pour in the cream of mushroom soup, followed by sour cream and milk. Stir everything until it forms a smooth, creamy consistency. It is essential to season this mixture with salt and black pepper to taste, as this enhances the overall flavor spectacularly. As you mix, you’ll notice the base becoming thick and rich—this is what will envelop your noodles!
Step 4: Add Cheese and Tuna
Time to take your mixture up a notch! Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and mix it in until it melts. The cheese adds a lovely depth of flavor and brings the casserole together beautifully. Gently fold in the drained and flaked tuna, ensuring every piece is coated with the creamy goodness. Then, add the drained noodles, folding everything together. Make sure the noodles are fully coated with the sauce; this will ensure every bite is delicious.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Transfer the entire mixture into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. This way, every part of the casserole gets to crisp up nicely in the oven. To finish, generously sprinkle crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs on top for that irresistible crunch. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until it’s bubbling and the top is golden brown. The bubbling edges are a testament to the richness of this dish!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This little break allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for an added touch of freshness. Now, serve this warmth and comfort at your dining table and enjoy every hearty bite!
Variations
- Protein: Swap out the tuna for shredded chicken or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Add a teaspoon of dried thyme, paprika, or even a hint of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Cooking Notes
- For a creamier casserole, increase the amount of sour cream or cheese.
- Ensure not to overcook the noodles as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and kept in the fridge before baking.
- Feel free to substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair it with a simple green salad for a light yet fulfilling meal.
- Consider serving with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Tips
- For a bit more texture, add some grated parmesan cheese to the topping.
- Make sure to keep a close eye on the baking time to prevent the top from burning.
- Consider doubling the recipe for larger gatherings or to have leftovers for busy weeknights.
- If you enjoy a hint of tanginess, try incorporating a tablespoon of Dijon mustard into the sauce mix.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 420 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 750mg
FAQs
Can I prepare Tuna Noodle Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow extra time for cooking if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Tuna Noodle Casserole can be frozen after baking. Just ensure it’s wrapped well to prevent freezer burn, and it’ll be good for 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
What can I use instead of egg noodles?
You can substitute egg noodles with more whole-grain pasta, gluten-free options, or even zucchini noodles for a healthier twist.
Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, feel free to add any of your favorites! Just be cautious with the moisture content to ensure the casserole doesn’t become soupy.
Conclusion
This Tuna Noodle Casserole is a classic dish that perfectly combines ease and flavor, making it a staple for busy households. With its creamy texture and crunchy topping, it’s bound to become a go-to recipe that everyone will adore. The ability to modify ingredients and seasonings allows you to tailor it beautifully to fit your family’s tastes. So, whether you’re revisiting an old favorite or creating new flavors within this dish, enjoy it to the fullest. Don’t forget to share your experiences or any variations in the comments below, and happy cooking!
Print
Tuna Noodle Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Tuna Noodle Casserole is your answer. Packed with tender egg noodles, creamy sauce, savory tuna, and a crispy golden topping.
Ingredients
- 12 oz wide egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen diced carrots
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained and flaked
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs
- Fresh chopped parsley or green onions, optional garnish
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the egg noodles, ensuring they’re evenly submerged. Cook them for about 7-9 minutes, or until al dente, then drain them in a colander and set them aside.
- In a spacious skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and sauté until they soften, around 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Incorporate the frozen peas and carrots, stirring until just thawed.
- Pour in the cream of mushroom soup, followed by sour cream and milk. Stir until smooth and creamy, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until it melts. Fold in the drained tuna and add the drained noodles, ensuring everything is well-coated with sauce.
- Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs on top. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired.
Notes
This dish can be prepared ahead of time and kept in the fridge before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Protein: 25 g