basic tuna noodle casserole recipe

The Best basic tuna noodle casserole recipe

I’ve been making this basic tuna noodle casserole recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to prepare and can be made in under an hour.

I love that it’s a one-pot wonder, with the pasta, tuna, and canned soup all cooking together in a single dish. The best part is that it’s a very versatile recipe, so you can customize it to your taste by adding in some frozen peas, diced onions, or even some chopped hard-boiled eggs.

My kids love helping me make this recipe, as it’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen and teach them about measurements and mixing. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good casserole?

They’re just so satisfying and filling, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This particular recipe is also relatively healthy, as it’s made with canned tuna (which is high in protein) and low-fat cream of mushroom soup.

Plus, you can easily add in some steamed vegetables on the side to make it an even healthier option. The combination of the creamy sauce and the al dente noodles is just unbeatable.

It’s no wonder this recipe has been a staple in American kitchens for generations!

Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

4.8 from 964 votes

A comforting classic dish featuring tender egg noodles, creamy sauce, and flaky tuna. Topped with a golden cheese crust.

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

🥘Ingredients

For the Noodles

8 oz egg noodles

For the Sauce

2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup milk
1/2 cup sour cream
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter

For the Topping

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

For Seasoning

1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried dill
1 tsp dried parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2Cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
3Drain and set aside.
4In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
5Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
6Stir in cream of mushroom soup, milk, and sour cream.
7Add salt, black pepper, dill, and parsley.
8Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
9Add the drained tuna to the sauce and mix well.
10Combine the cooked noodles with the tuna sauce mixture in a baking dish.
11Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
12Followed by the breadcrumbs.
13Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan
Large skillet
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 substitute whole wheat noodles for a healthier option.

This tuna noodle casserole is a classic dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is a great way to feed a crowd, and it is easy to make ahead of time.

You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, and they can be reheated in the oven or the microwave. This dish is always a good idea for any occasion and works well for family gatherings.

It is a dish that brings people together and creates lasting memories.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tuna Noodle Casserole

1. Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?

You can use fresh tuna, but it will change the texture and flavor of the dish. Canned tuna has a milder flavor and a softer texture, which works well in a casserole. If you use fresh tuna, you may want to cook it separately before adding it to the casserole.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it. This is a great option if you are short on time or if you want to have a meal ready to go for a busy weeknight. Just make sure to cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole for up to three months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing. When you are ready to bake it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but it will still be delicious.

4. How can I make this recipe healthier?

There are a few ways to make this recipe healthier. You can use whole-wheat noodles instead of regular noodles for added fiber. You can also add more vegetables to the mix, such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers. Another option is to use low-fat milk and low-fat cream cheese to reduce the fat content.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use a different type of cheese if you prefer. Cheddar cheese is a popular choice, but you can also use mozzarella, Swiss, or even a blend of cheeses. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the casserole may change depending on the type of cheese you use.

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