Name: Tuna Noodle Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz egg noodles; 2 cans (5 oz each) canned tuna, drained; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Print Recipe

The warm, comforting aroma of tuna noodle casserole wafts through the kitchen, instantly transporting you to simpler times when dinner meant cozy family gatherings and laughter. This dish, a delightful blend of creamy goodness and hearty noodles, creates an irresistible invitation for your taste buds. Picture it: tender pasta lovingly enveloped in a savory tuna sauce topped with crispy breadcrumbs, ready to hug you with every bite.

I can still remember my first experience with this classic meal—my mom’s version on a chilly weeknight, as we huddled around the table, sharing stories and giggles. Tuna noodle casserole became our go-to comfort food, perfect for busy weekdays or those lazy Sundays when life slowed down just enough to savor every heavenly mouthful. Get ready to dive into this flavor-packed journey that promises to make your heart sing!

Why You'll Love This tuna noodle casserole

This incredible tuna noodle casserole transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious tuna noodle casserole:

Egg Noodles: These are the star of the show! Choose slightly thicker varieties for added texture and chewiness.
Canned Tuna: Opt for high-quality tuna packed in water or oil; it adds rich flavor and moisture to your casserole.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This creamy base brings everything together; consider using low-fat versions if you’re watching calories.
Frozen Peas: A splash of color and sweetness! No need to thaw; they cook perfectly during baking.
Shredded Cheese: Choose your favorite cheese—cheddar is classic—for a gooey topping that melts beautifully.

For the Topping:

Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious tuna noodle casserole:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grab a trusty baking dish (around 9×13 inches) and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook Your Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain them well and return them to the pot.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In the pot with the drained noodles, add canned tuna (drained), cream of mushroom soup, frozen peas, half of the shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and mix everything until well combined.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour your delightful mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly so every glorious scoop gets equal love.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top followed by breadcrumbs—this is where we get crunchy magic! Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.

Step 6: Bake Away!

Place your masterpiece in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy each bite as if it’s a warm hug from your kitchen!

You Must Know About tuna noodle casserole

This showstopping tuna noodle casserole delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the best tuna noodle casserole, start by boiling your pasta until al dente. While that’s happening, sauté onions and garlic in a large skillet, then add canned tuna and your favorite veggies. Finally, combine everything with a creamy sauce before baking to perfection.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to get creative! Swap out the tuna for chicken or shrimp if you prefer. Add in some spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses or spices to make this tuna noodle casserole uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal while maintaining that delightful creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips for tuna noodle casserole

This professional-quality tuna noodle casserole relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sometimes I whip up this tuna noodle casserole when friends come over, and their eyes light up like it’s a culinary masterpiece! It’s always heartwarming when they ask for my secret ingredient—it’s just love (and maybe a dash of garlic)!

FAQs

What is tuna noodle casserole?

Tuna noodle casserole is a classic comfort dish that combines tender pasta, creamy sauce, and nutritious vegetables with canned tuna. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Typically baked until bubbly and golden, it offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of canned tuna makes it an affordable option, while the addition of ingredients like peas or mushrooms enhances the dish’s nutrition. Overall, tuna noodle casserole has become a beloved staple in many households.

How long does it take to make tuna noodle casserole?

Making tuna noodle casserole is quite quick and easy. From start to finish, the entire process typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes. First, cook the pasta according to package instructions, which takes around 8 to 10 minutes. Then, combine the cooked pasta with the other ingredients and transfer them into a baking dish. After that, bake the casserole for about 20 minutes until it’s heated through and bubbly. This makes it ideal for those hectic days when you need a delicious homemade meal in no time.

Can I customize my tuna noodle casserole?

Absolutely! One of the best aspects of tuna noodle casserole is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, if you prefer a different protein, consider using chicken or salmon instead of tuna. Additionally, you can mix in your favorite vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or corn for added flavor and nutrition. Don’t forget to experiment with different types of cheese or seasonings to make your dish unique!

Is tuna noodle casserole healthy?

Tuna noodle casserole can be a healthy meal option when prepared with fresh ingredients and controlled portions. Canned tuna provides high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids. By incorporating whole grain pasta and adding plenty of vegetables such as peas or spinach, you can boost its nutritional value further. If you’re looking to lighten it up even more, consider using low-fat cream soups or Greek yogurt instead of traditional creamy sauces.

Conclusion

In summary, tuna noodle casserole is an easy-to-make comfort food that everyone loves. With its creamy texture and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. You can customize this versatile dish by adding various proteins and vegetables to suit your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing favorite at gatherings, this recipe will surely satisfy everyone’s palate. Give this delicious tuna noodle casserole a try today!