Are you in search of a classic comfort food dish that is both delicious and easy to make? Look no further than tuna noodle casserole! This dish has been a staple in American households for generations, and for good reason.
It’s quick and easy to make, budget-friendly, and can be customized to suit your tastes.
In this recipe, we’ll walk you through the steps to make the ultimate tuna noodle casserole. We’ll also provide some tips and tricks to help you customize the dish to your liking.
Tips and Tricks
To make the most of your Tuna Noodle Casserole experience, keep these tips and tricks in mind:
- Pasta Choice: Although egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute other types of pasta like penne or fusilli.
- Cheese Varieties: For a different flavor profile, try using a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or Gruyere.
- Breadcrumb Topping: For extra crunch, mix some grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb topping.
- Add-Ins: Customize your casserole with add-ins like sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or even some crispy bacon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned peas instead of frozen peas?
Yes, you can use canned peas if you prefer. Just be sure to drain them before adding them to the dish.
Can I use a different type of canned soup?
Yes, you can use cream of chicken soup or cream of celery soup instead of cream of mushroom soup.
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna if you prefer. Simply cook the tuna and chop it into small pieces before adding it to the dish.
Can I make Tuna Noodle Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Simply cover it with foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
Can I freeze Tuna Noodle Casserole?
Absolutely. Once the casserole has completely cooled, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
MORE TASTY CASSEROLE RECIPES
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The Ultimate Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe: A Classic Comfort Food Dish
Ingredients
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 2 cans (5 ounces each) tuna, drained
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Preparing the Noodles and Tuna Mixture
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until they're al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the tuna, peas, onion, garlic, 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Assembling and Baking the Casserole
- Add the drained noodles to the tuna mixture, stirring to make sure the noodles are well coated.
- Pour the noodle and tuna mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this over the top of the casserole.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the breadcrumb topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Notes
- If using fresh tuna, make sure it's cooked through and flaky before adding to the mixture.
- For a vegetarian option, replace the tuna with a can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained.
- If you don't have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers will also work for the topping.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs, and ensure your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free.
Hi, I’m Julie, the passionate foodie and founder of Juliesfamilykitchen.com. I created this blog out of a drive to prove someone wrong, and then I realized how much I truly enjoy cooking and trying new recipes. In my free time, when I’m not running around after my kids or spending quality time with my partner, you can usually find me in the kitchen experimenting with new dishes.