Why You’ll Love Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe

This Tuna Noodle Casserole is the definition of simple comfort food. It’s made with easy-to-find ingredients and requires minimal effort. The combination of pasta, tuna, and a creamy sauce creates a rich, flavorful dish that everyone will love. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a meal for yourself, this casserole is sure to satisfy your hunger and your taste buds.

Ingredients

2 cups uncooked egg noodles
1 can (12 oz) tuna in oil or water, drained and flaked
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, tuna, cream of mushroom soup, peas, milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
If using, sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top for an added crunch.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian version: Swap the tuna for cooked chicken or a meat substitute.
Cheese options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Swiss for a unique flavor twist.
Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the casserole for a spicy kick.
Use different vegetables: You can substitute the peas with corn, mushrooms, or green beans for variety.
Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free noodles to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes, or until hot.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned tuna in oil or water for this recipe?

Yes, you can use either canned tuna in oil or water. The oil-packed tuna adds more richness, but both work well.

2. Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?

Yes, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or any other cream soup of your choice.

3. How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative (like almond or oat milk), and use dairy-free cheese and a dairy-free cream soup.

4. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as usual.

5. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

6. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli. Just be sure to cook it according to package directions before assembling the casserole.

7. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to boost the nutrition and flavor.

8. How do I make the topping crispy?

To make a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the casserole before baking. You can also drizzle a little melted butter over the breadcrumbs for an extra golden, crunchy finish.

9. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any type of cheese you like. Mozzarella, Swiss, or a combination of cheeses can work well in this recipe.

10. How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when it is bubbling around the edges and the top is golden brown. You can also check by inserting a fork into the center—if it’s hot and the cheese is melted, it’s ready.

Conclusion

This Tuna Noodle Casserole is the perfect balance of comfort, flavor, and simplicity. With minimal ingredients and just 30 minutes of cooking time, it’s the ideal dish for busy families or anyone looking for a delicious, hearty meal. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your tastes and dietary preferences, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy this easy, satisfying casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe

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This Tuna Noodle Casserole recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy nights. With simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and ready in just 30 minutes! A family favorite, it combines tender pasta, savory tuna, and creamy sauce, making it a hearty meal everyone will love.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the egg noodles according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, peas, shredded cheddar cheese, and cooked noodles. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
In a small bowl, melt the butter and toss the breadcrumbs in it until evenly coated. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs on top of the casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

You can swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken soup if you prefer.
For extra flavor, you can add some garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the casserole mixture.
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers also work well as a topping.