Tuna noodle casserole is a timeless dish that brings back memories of cozy family dinners. This creamy, cheesy casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any occasion where you need a hearty and satisfying meal. Made with simple pantry staples, this recipe is both budget-friendly and delicious.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 (5-ounce) cans tuna in water, drained and flaked
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the Noodles: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Creamy Mixture: Stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and sour cream. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture is smooth and heated through. Add 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, creamy sauce, flaked tuna, and thawed peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. If using, sprinkle the crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish with a side salad or some crusty bread!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can use any short pasta like rotini, penne, or macaroni. Just be sure to cook the pasta until al dente before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze tuna noodle casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Q: What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup? A: If you prefer not to use canned soup, you can make a homemade version by combining 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 cup of chicken broth, and 1 cup of milk. Cook until thickened and use in place of the canned soup.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the casserole? A: Yes, this recipe is very versatile. You can add vegetables like corn, carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the tuna mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free pasta and substituting the all-purpose flour in the homemade soup with a gluten-free flour blend. Also, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping.
This classic tuna noodle casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy!