You can whip up a delicious tuna noodle casserole using just a few simple ingredients. Start by cooking 8 oz of egg noodles and mixing them with two drained cans of tuna and a can of cream of mushroom soup. Stir in a cup of frozen peas and carrots for color and nutrition. Top with a cup of shredded cheddar cheese, then sprinkle breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Bake at 350°F until golden and bubbly. This dish is easy to customize with your favorite veggies or cheeses. Keep going, and you'll discover even more tips to make it your own!
Key Takeaways
- Cook 8 oz of egg noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix 2 cans of drained tuna with the cooked noodles.
- Add 1 can of cream of mushroom soup and stir until well combined.
- Incorporate 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots for added nutrition and color.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs before baking at 350°F for 25-30 minutes.
History
Tuna noodle casserole has a rich history that dates back to the mid-20th century, when convenience foods began to rise in popularity.
You'll find this dish emerged during a time when families sought quick, easy meals that didn't require much preparation. Canned tuna, a staple in many households, brought affordability and ease to the dinner table.
The casserole became a go-to dish, often featuring a creamy sauce and various vegetables, all baked together for a comforting meal. Its appeal grew as it adapted to regional tastes and available ingredients, making it a beloved classic across the United States.
Today, it's not just about convenience; it's also about nostalgia, reminding many of family gatherings and hearty meals shared together.
Recipe
Tuna noodle casserole is a classic comfort food that combines tender egg noodles, creamy sauce, and savory tuna for a satisfying meal that's both easy to prepare and delicious. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a hearty casserole that's sure to please everyone at the table. The beauty of tuna noodle casserole lies in its versatility. You can customize it to suit your taste by adding in your favorite vegetables or switching up the type of cheese.
This dish isn't only budget-friendly but also a great way to make use of pantry staples. Once baked, the casserole develops a golden, bubbly topping that makes it even more inviting.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- 2 tbsp butter (optional for greasing)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, frozen peas and carrots, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked noodles until well combined.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Extra Tips:
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
You can also add in sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even some cooked bacon to enhance the dish further. If you have leftovers, this casserole keeps well in the fridge for a few days and can be easily reheated in the oven or microwave.
Enjoy your homemade tuna noodle casserole!
Cooking Steps
To get started on your Tuna Noodle Casserole, you'll first want to preheat your oven to 350°F.
Next, mix the tuna and noodles together, then add in the cream of mushroom soup and stir in some frozen peas.
Finally, top everything off with breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F
Preheating your oven to 350°F is an essential step in making a perfect tuna noodle casserole. This temperature guarantees that your casserole cooks evenly, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Start by turning on your oven and setting it to 350°F. While it heats up, you can gather your ingredients and prepare your other components.
It usually takes about 10-15 minutes for the oven to reach the desired temperature, so be patient. You'll know it's ready when the preheat indicator light goes off or when you can feel the warmth radiating from the oven.
Once it's preheated, you'll be all set to move on to the next steps in creating a delicious meal your family will love.
Step 2. Mix Tuna and Noodles
With your oven now preheated to 350°F, it's time to mix the tuna and noodles.
Start by draining the canned tuna to remove excess liquid. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles and the tuna, gently breaking up the tuna as you go.
Make sure the noodles are evenly coated with the tuna. If you like, you can add some frozen peas or chopped celery for extra flavor and texture.
Stir the mixture until everything is well combined. Don't forget to season it with salt and pepper to taste.
Once it's all mixed up, you'll have a solid base for the casserole, ready for the next step!
Step 3. Add Cream of Mushroom Soup
Once the tuna and noodles are mixed together, you can add the cream of mushroom soup to bring everything together. Open a can of soup and pour it over the tuna and noodles in your mixing bowl.
Make sure to scrape every last bit out of the can for maximum flavor. Using a spatula, gently fold the soup into the mixture until everything is evenly coated. The creamy consistency will help bind the ingredients and create a delicious sauce.
You may want to add a splash of milk if you prefer a thinner texture. Just stir until it's well combined, ensuring there are no dry spots. This step is essential for a rich, satisfying casserole that everyone will enjoy!
Step 4. Stir in Frozen Peas
After the cream of mushroom soup has been fully incorporated, it's time to add some color and nutrition to your casserole by stirring in frozen peas.
Grab a cup of frozen peas and pour them into the mixture. Gently fold them in, ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout the casserole. The peas won't only brighten up the dish but also add a pop of sweetness and a lovely texture.
If you're using petite peas, they'll blend in seamlessly, while larger peas will give you a delightful bite. Keep stirring until the peas are well combined and heated through.
This step is quick and simple, but it makes a big difference in both flavor and presentation. Enjoy the vibrant addition!
Step 5. Top With Breadcrumbs
To give your tuna noodle casserole a satisfying crunch, spread a generous layer of breadcrumbs on top. Make sure to cover the entire surface evenly, so every bite gets that delightful texture.
If you want to elevate the flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of garlic powder with the breadcrumbs. This adds an extra layer of taste that complements the casserole perfectly.
Once you've topped it off, pop the dish into the oven. Bake according to your recipe's instructions, usually around 20 to 25 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown and crispy.
Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Let it cool slightly before serving, and enjoy your delicious, crunchy casserole!
Final Thoughts
As you wrap up your culinary adventure with this Tuna Noodle Casserole, you'll likely appreciate how simple ingredients can come together to create a comforting dish.
This recipe's versatility allows you to customize it to your taste, whether by adding veggies or using a different type of pasta. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use pantry staples, making it both economical and convenient.
Don't forget to save leftovers for a quick lunch or dinner option throughout the week. The flavors often deepen after a day in the fridge, making it even more delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Fresh Tuna Instead of Canned Tuna?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna!
Just keep in mind that fresh tuna has a different texture and flavor, so it might alter the dish slightly.
You'll need to cook the fresh tuna first—grilling or searing works well.
Once it's cooked, flake it into bite-sized pieces and mix it into your dish.
You'll enjoy a fresher taste while still getting that classic tuna experience!
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you're looking to substitute cream of mushroom soup, you've got a few tasty options.
You can use a homemade version by blending sautéed mushrooms with cream or a plant-based alternative for a lighter option. Coconut milk mixed with a bit of flour also works well.
If you prefer a different flavor, try using cream of chicken soup or even a cheesy béchamel sauce.
Get creative and enjoy your dish!
How Do I Store Leftover Tuna Noodle Casserole?
To store your leftover casserole, let it cool to room temperature first.
Then, transfer it to an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three to four days.
If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it'll last for about two to three months.
When you're ready, reheat thoroughly before serving!
Is Tuna Noodle Casserole Gluten-Free?
If you're wondering whether it's gluten-free, it depends on the ingredients you use.
Traditional recipes often include wheat-based pasta, which contains gluten. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by swapping out regular pasta for gluten-free varieties.
Be sure to check any canned ingredients, like soups, as some might contain gluten.
Can I Freeze Tuna Noodle Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze tuna noodle casserole!
Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
Label it with the date, and you'll be good to go.
When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven or microwave.
It'll taste just as delicious, but be sure to check for any texture changes after freezing.
Enjoy!
Arf, an author and an innovative enthusiast of coffee, coffee alternatives, and tea, plays a crucial role as a contributor to the esteemed Cappuccino Oracle platform. Renowned for his curiosity and passion for these captivating beverages, Arf has carved out a unique space for himself in the world of exploration and writing. He realized that coffee, coffee alternatives, and tea are not mere drinks to keep one awake, but universes of flavors and stories waiting to be explored.
