tuna noodle casserole recipe

tuna noodle casserole recipe

The Best tuna noodle casserole recipe

I’ve been making tuna noodle casserole for years, and it’s still a family favorite. The dish has its roots in the 1950s, when it was popularized by American housewives as a convenient and affordable meal. It’s made with canned tuna, noodles, and a can of condensed cream of mushroom soup, which gives it a rich and savory flavor.

The combination of textures and tastes is what makes this dish so appealing to both kids and adults alike. I remember my kids used to love helping me make it, and they’d always get excited when they saw the finished product. It’s a great comfort food that never fails to satisfy our appetites.

Whether we’re having it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, this casserole is always a hit. I’ve experimented with different variations over the years, but the original recipe remains my go-to. It’s a testament to the power of simple, classic cooking that never goes out of style.

My kids are now grown with families of their own, but they still request this dish when they come over for visits. It’s amazing how a simple casserole can evoke such strong memories and emotions. I think it’s because this dish represents a sense of warmth and security that we all crave.

When we sit down to eat it together, we feel connected to each other and to our past experiences. This casserole may not be fancy, but it’s full of love and history that makes it truly special.

Tuna Noodle Casserole

Tuna Noodle Casserole

4.7 from 1064 votes

A comforting classic dish featuring tender noodles, savory tuna, and a creamy sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb topping. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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 tuna in water, drained
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup frozen corn
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3Add egg noodles and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
4Drain and set aside.
5In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, peas, corn, onion, celery, salt, and black pepper.
6Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
7Transfer the tuna noodle mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
8Spread the mixture evenly across the dish.
9In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and melted butter until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
10Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
11Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
12Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
13If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil.
14Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
15This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.
16Serve hot and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Mixing bowl
9×13 inch 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. Add a layer of sliced potatoes or mixed vegetables for an extra hearty meal.

Watch Video Of How Tuna Noodle Casserole Works

This tuna noodle casserole recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or hosting a family gathering. It’s easy to make ahead of time and can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before reheating.

When reheating, make sure to cover the dish with aluminum foil so that the top layer doesn’t burn. You can also serve it at room temperature if you prefer – just be sure to let it sit for about 10 minutes after baking before slicing into portions.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tuna Noodle Casserole

Q1: What kind of noodles should I use in this recipe?

I like to use egg noodles for this casserole because they hold up well to the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.

Q2: Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup with something else?

You can try using chicken or beef broth instead, but keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.

Q3: How do I prevent the top layer from burning?

To avoid burning the top layer, you can cover the dish with aluminum foil for part of the baking time.

Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance, but be sure to store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

Q5: Is there an alternative to using canned tuna?

You can use fresh tuna steaks or even skipfish if you prefer.

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