Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe (with Video)

Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe: Tuna noodle casserole is a timeless classic loved for its creamy texture, hearty flavors, and simplicity.

It’s the ultimate comfort food, bringing families together over its rich and satisfying taste. Whether you’re a pro in the kitchen or just starting out, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck parties.

The best part? You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences, making it as simple or as extravagant as you’d like.

Ingredients for Tuna Noodle Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect tuna noodle casserole:

Essential Ingredients

• 12 ounces of egg noodles
• 2 cans (5-6 oz each) of tuna, drained
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup of milk
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of frozen peas (optional)
• 1/2 cup of diced onions

Optional Add-Ons

• 1/2 cup of chopped celery for crunch
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips for topping

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make this dish, you’ll need:

• A large pot for boiling noodles
• A medium saucepan for the sauce
• A mixing bowl
• A 9×13-inch casserole dish
• A wooden spoon or spatula
• Aluminum foil

Pro Tip: Grease your casserole dish lightly to prevent sticking.

How to Make Tuna Noodle Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Before anything else, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly and achieves that delightful golden-brown topping. Preheating also helps maintain a consistent baking time.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 7-9 minutes).
3. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Tip: Slightly undercook the noodles if you prefer firmer pasta after baking.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, mix the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
2. Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted.
3. For extra flavor, stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

This creamy sauce is the backbone of your casserole, so take your time to make it flavorful.

Step 4: Mix Tuna and Vegetables

1. In a large mixing bowl, flake the drained tuna with a fork.
2. Add frozen peas, diced onions, and any other vegetables you’re using.
3. Stir to combine and ensure even distribution.

Tip: Fresh or frozen vegetables can add vibrant color and texture to your dish.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. In the same large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, prepared sauce, and tuna mixture.
2. Mix gently to coat everything evenly with the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Top with Crunchy Goodness

No casserole is complete without a delicious topping. This step is where the magic happens!

1. Choose Your Topping: You can use breadcrumbs, crushed potato chips, or even crushed crackers.
2. Prepare the Topping: If using breadcrumbs, toss them with a tablespoon of melted butter for extra flavor.
3. Sprinkle Generously: Evenly distribute the topping over the casserole. For added flair, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.

The topping adds a satisfying crunch to balance the creamy interior, creating a delightful contrast in every bite.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to keep it from drying out during baking.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Tip: Keep an eye on the casserole during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.

Step 8: Let It Rest

After removing the casserole from the oven, let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This step allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve without the dish falling apart.

Pro Tip: Use a sharp-edged spatula to portion the casserole neatly.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your tuna noodle casserole with simple sides to elevate your meal:

• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Add some steamed broccoli, carrots, or asparagus for extra nutrition.
• Drinks: A chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors wonderfully.

Tips for Making the Perfect Tuna Noodle Casserole

1. Use Quality Tuna: Opt for tuna packed in water for a lighter taste or in oil for richer flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Slightly undercooked noodles will finish cooking in the oven and maintain their texture.
3. Customize the Vegetables: Add or swap vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
4. Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is classic, mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack can be fun substitutes.

How to Store Leftovers

1. Refrigeration: Transfer leftover casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours of baking. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days.
2. Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
3. Reheating: Thaw frozen casserole in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.

Customizing Your Tuna Noodle Casserole

This dish is wonderfully versatile, making it easy to adapt to dietary needs or flavor preferences:

1. Healthier Version: Use whole-grain noodles, low-fat milk, and reduced-fat cheese. Add extra veggies for a nutrition boost.
2. Gluten-Free: Substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping.
3. Spicy Twist: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sauce for a kick of heat.
4. Seafood Upgrade: Swap tuna with cooked shrimp or crabmeat for a more luxurious variation.

FAQs about Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe

1. What ingredients are needed for a tuna noodle casserole?

To make a classic tuna noodle casserole, you will need canned tuna, egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, peas, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Some variations might include onions, celery, or bell peppers for added flavor.

2. Can I make tuna noodle casserole ahead of time?

Yes, tuna noodle casserole is an excellent dish for preparing ahead of time. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. You can store it this way for up to 2 days before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting from cold.

3. What substitutions can I make in a tuna noodle casserole?

For a healthier version, you can substitute whole wheat noodles for regular egg noodles, use low-fat cream of mushroom soup, and add more vegetables like spinach or diced carrots. If you’re not a fan of tuna, cooked chicken or turkey are perfect substitutes.

4. How long does it take to bake tuna noodle casserole?

Typically, a tuna noodle casserole bakes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 to 25 minutes. If you’ve topped it with cheese or breadcrumbs, look for a golden-brown crust to indicate it’s done.

5. Can tuna noodle casserole be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze tuna noodle casserole either before or after baking. Wrap it well to avoid freezer burn and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure even warming.

6. How do I reheat tuna noodle casserole?

To reheat, cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. For a crispier top, remove the foil in the last few minutes of baking.

Conclusion

Tuna noodle casserole is the perfect recipe for cozy family dinners or an easy meal prep solution. Its creamy texture, crunchy topping, and comforting flavors make it a timeless favorite. By following this step-by-step guide, you can whip up a casserole that’s as delicious as it is satisfying.

So, roll up your sleeves, grab those ingredients, and get ready to create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!