noodle tuna casserole recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best noodle tuna casserole recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – the classic noodle tuna casserole. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s a perfect combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love. The story behind this recipe is that it’s a simplified version of the traditional American casserole, made with ground beef, noodles, and canned tuna.

However, my version uses tuna as the main protein source, making it a great option for those who prefer a lighter meal. The addition of frozen peas and carrots adds a burst of color and sweetness to the dish, while the cheddar cheese gives it a rich and creamy texture. I’ve found that this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike, as it’s easy to make ahead of time and can be reheated as needed.

My kids love helping me prepare this dish, and they always get excited when they see the finished product on the table. This recipe has become a staple in our household because of its versatility and ease of preparation. Plus, it’s a great way to get in some extra veggies without even realizing it!

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to customize to your taste preferences. You can add or subtract ingredients as you see fit, making it perfect for picky eaters or those with dietary restrictions. For example, you can swap out the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or parmesan if you prefer a different flavor profile.

The key to making this recipe shine is using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh frozen vegetables and real cheddar cheese. By doing so, you’ll end up with a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated at the same time.

Noodle Tuna Casserole

4.7 from 501 votes

A comforting and easy-to-make noodle tuna casserole. This dish combines tender noodles, creamy sauce, and flaky tuna, topped with a crispy breadcrumb topping.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Casserole

8 oz egg noodles
2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup frozen corn
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
3Drain and set aside.
4Meanwhile, in a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
5Add onion, celery, and bell pepper.
6Sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
7Stir in frozen peas and corn, cook for an additional 3 minutes.
8In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked noodles, sautéed vegetables, drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, and milk.
9Stir until well combined.
10Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
12Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
13In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated parmesan cheese.
14Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheddar cheese.
15Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
16Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
17This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
18Serve hot and enjoy your noodle tuna casserole.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Skillet
Mixing bowl
Baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients. For a spicier casserole, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vegetable mixture.

This noodle tuna casserole is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family.

It’s easy to customize to your taste preferences and works well with various dietary needs.

If you’re looking for a comforting yet satisfying meal that’s also relatively healthy, look no further than this classic casserole recipe.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Noodle Tuna Casserole

Q: What type of noodles should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, I recommend using egg noodles or macaroni as they hold up well to the creamy sauce.

Q: Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

While you can use fresh tuna if you have access to it, I find that canned tuna works just as well in this recipe.

Q: Can I make this recipe without cheese?

You can omit the cheese if you’re lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free diet.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

You can store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This recipe can be prepared ahead of time but not assembled until just before baking.

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