Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients for a quick and satisfying meal. It’s a classic recipe that many families love, perfect for busy weeknights or as a dish to share with friends. With tender noodles, creamy sauce, and pieces of tuna, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it’s easy to prepare and requires minimal cooking skills. Second, it uses affordable ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Lastly, it’s a versatile dish that you can customize with your favorite add-ins or substitutions. It’s a hearty meal that can feed a crowd, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
How to Make Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 can (12 oz) canned tuna, drained
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 tbsp dried onion flakes
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil salted water in a pot and cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together the drained tuna, frozen peas, cream of mushroom soup, milk, half of the cheddar cheese, and the dried onion flakes until well combined.
- Gently fold in the cooked noodles until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with the remaining cheese and the breadcrumbs.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown. Let it rest for five minutes before serving.
How to Serve Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Serve your Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole warm right out of the oven. It pairs nicely with a fresh side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also add a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top for a pop of color.
How to Store Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
To store any leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Tips to Make Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
- If you want more flavor, consider adding some spices, like garlic powder or pepper, to the mixture.
- For a little crunch, try adding some crushed potato chips on top instead of breadcrumbs.
- You can substitute the tuna with chicken or a different protein if you prefer.
Variation
Feel free to customize this casserole to suit your taste. You can add vegetables like corn, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition. You can also switch up the cheese; for example, try using mozzarella or a cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna, but be sure to cook it before mixing it into the casserole.
2. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta instead of egg noodles and check that the soup is gluten-free.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to adjust the baking time if it’s stored in the fridge.
