If you’re craving a simple, hearty meal, Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole is the answer. This easy dish features tender noodles, savory tuna, and creamy sauce, all topped with crunchy breadcrumbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe combines affordable ingredients and straightforward steps. Whether you want comfort food or a family favorite, this casserole will not disappoint. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
– 12 oz egg noodles
– 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup frozen peas
Additional Ingredients
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
Seasonings and Topping
– 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
The main ingredients create a creamy and tasty base. Egg noodles give the dish its heartiness. Canned tuna brings protein and flavor, while the cream of mushroom soup makes it rich and smooth. Frozen peas add a nice pop of color and sweetness.
In addition, mayonnaise blends in extra creaminess, and the cheeses add depth. The milk helps to lighten the mixture, making it easy to bake.
For seasonings, green onions give a fresh bite. Garlic powder enhances the overall taste. Salt and pepper round out the flavor. Breadcrumbs and olive oil create a crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy filling.Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Dish
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease the casserole dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
Cooking the Noodles
– In a large pot, boil salted water.
– Add the egg noodles and cook until al dente.
Mixing the Filling
– In a bowl, mix tuna, soup, and peas.
– Stir in cheese, milk, and seasonings until blended.
Assembling the Casserole
– Gently fold the cooked noodles into the filling.
– Transfer the mixture to the greased casserole dish.
Preparing the Crunchy Topping
– In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs and olive oil.
– Sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole.
Baking the Casserole
– Bake for 25-30 minutes until hot and golden.
– Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Casserole
To get the best creamy texture, use full-fat cream of mushroom soup. You can add a bit more milk if you want extra creaminess. Mixing in some sour cream also works wonders.
For a golden crust, make sure to mix breadcrumbs with olive oil. This helps them brown in the oven. You can also toast them lightly in a pan before topping your casserole.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce. This gives a different flavor but is still delicious.
For cheese, sharp cheddar works best, but you can try mozzarella or pepper jack for a kick. Mixing two kinds of cheese adds depth to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your casserole with a fresh side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the dish well.
For garnishing, sprinkle extra green onions on top before serving. You can also add a few sprigs of parsley for color and freshness.
Variations
Adding Vegetables
You can easily boost the nutrition of your tuna noodle casserole. I love adding vegetables. Here are some great options:
– Broccoli florets: They add a nice crunch.
– Bell peppers: Use any color for sweetness.
– Carrots: Grated or diced for a bit of color.
– Spinach: Fresh or frozen, it’s a great addition.
Fresh vegetables taste great, but frozen ones work well, too. Frozen veggies save time and cut prep work. They also hold nutrients well.
Alternate Proteins
If you want to switch things up, try using different proteins. You can swap tuna for:
– Chicken: Cooked and shredded chicken is a great choice.
– Salmon: Canned salmon works beautifully.
For a vegetarian or vegan dish, try these options:
– Chickpeas: They add protein and texture.
– Tofu: Firm tofu, crumbled, takes on flavors well.
These swaps keep the dish tasty while meeting your dietary needs.
Flavor Enhancements
To make your casserole stand out, add some spices and herbs. Here are a few ideas:
– Dill: This herb pairs well with tuna.
– Thyme: Adds an earthy flavor.
– Cayenne pepper: For a little heat.
You can also consider adding sauces for more depth. A splash of hot sauce or soy sauce can really enhance the taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment! Enjoy the process of making this dish your own.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your casserole fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and air out. You can cover it with plastic wrap too. This way, it stays tasty for later meals.
Freezing the Casserole
If you want to freeze the casserole, do it before baking. Wrap it well in foil or plastic wrap. This keeps it safe from freezer burn. After baking, let it cool down, then freeze. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Bake it again at 350°F (175°C) until hot. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, the casserole lasts about 3-4 days. If you see any mold or smell something off, throw it away. Always trust your senses. If it looks or smells bad, it’s best not to eat it.
FAQs
How long does it take to make Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole?
It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. You can have it ready in about 45 minutes.
Can I make Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole a day before. Just cover it and place it in the fridge. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the fridge. This helps the flavors meld.
Is Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole gluten-free?
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole is not gluten-free with regular noodles. You can use gluten-free egg noodles instead. They work just as well in this dish.
What can I serve with Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole?
Pair it with a fresh side salad for crunch. You can also serve steamed veggies or garlic bread. They complement the casserole well and add variety.
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna! Cook it first, then flake it into the casserole. Just remember that fresh tuna will have a different texture than canned.
How do I make Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole without mayonnaise?
Instead of mayonnaise, use Greek yogurt or sour cream. This gives the casserole a creamy texture without the mayo. You can also use a mix of cream cheese and milk for creaminess.Enjoy cooking!
To wrap up, we’ve covered a lot about Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole. You learned its key ingredients, like egg noodles, tuna, and cream of mushroom soup. I shared steps for prep, mixing, and baking. Plus, I offered tips on perfecting your dish and possible variations.
This meal is easy, quick, and perfect for family dinners. Feel free to explore those ingredient swaps and new flavors. With a bit of creativity, you can make it truly yours. Enjoy creating your cozy casserole!
