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Tuna Noodle Casserole

Tuna Noodle Casserole

A classic Tuna Noodle Casserole delivering creamy, comforting flavors with tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, and a rich mushroom sauce baked to golden perfection. Quick to prepare and budget-friendly, perfect for cozy family dinners or easy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz egg noodles
  • 2 cans (5 oz each) canned tuna in water, drained and flaked
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted (plus extra for greasing casserole dish)

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion, sautéed
  • 12 cloves garlic, minced and sautéed
  • Vegetables for variation: mushrooms, carrots, broccoli (quantity as desired)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until just tender. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Mix the Creamy Base: In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, and optional sautéed onions and garlic. Stir until smooth.
  3. Add Tuna and Peas: Flake the canned tuna into the creamy mixture. Stir in frozen peas to add sweetness and vibrant color.
  4. Combine Noodles and Sauce: Gently fold the cooked noodles into the tuna and sauce mixture, ensuring even coating without breaking the noodles.
  5. Transfer and Top: Pour the mixture into a buttered casserole dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, then finish with a layer of breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips for added crunch.
  6. Bake until Golden: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the noodles; they should be slightly undercooked as they’ll continue cooking in the oven and absorb flavors.
  • Use high quality solid white tuna for a firmer texture and better taste.
  • Mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese for an extra flavorful crunchy topping.
  • Sauté onions and garlic before adding for a deeper, richer flavor without overpowering the dish.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to set and make serving easier.

Nutrition

Keywords: tuna noodle casserole, comfort food, tuna casserole, easy dinner, creamy casserole, baked tuna pasta