Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole – The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic

Looking for a comforting and hearty casserole that comes together in a breeze? This Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a classic dish perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Packed with creamy sauce, tender noodles, and flavorful tuna, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!​

📝 Ingredients:

• 8 oz egg noodles​

• 2 cans tuna, drained​

• 1 can cream of mushroom soup​

• 1 cup frozen peas​

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese​

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs​

• 2 tbsp butter​

• Salt and pepper to taste​

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a casserole dish.​

2. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions and drain.​

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, tuna, cream of mushroom soup, peas, and half of the shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper.​

4. Transfer the mixture to the greased casserole dish and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.​

5. In a small bowl, melt the butter and mix with breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole.​

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.​

7. Serve hot and enjoy!​

🍽️ Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

• Serving size: 1 cup​

• Calories: 350​

• Protein: 20g​

• Carbohydrates: 30g​

• Fat: 15g​

💡 Tips for the Best Tuna Noodle Casserole:

• Use high-quality tuna: Opt for solid white albacore tuna for a meatier texture and richer flavor.​

• Customize the veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced carrots or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.​

• Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist.​

• Make it ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate. When ready to eat, bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.​

🧂 Add-In Ideas:

• Vegetables: Broccoli florets, sautéed mushrooms, or diced bell peppers.​

• Herbs and Spices: Fresh dill, parsley, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.​

• Crunchy Toppings: Crushed potato chips, French fried onions, or panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.​

• Protein Boost: Add a can of white beans or a handful of cooked, diced chicken for extra protein.​

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: Can I freeze the tuna noodle casserole?
A: Yes, assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.​

Q: What can I serve with this casserole?
A: A simple green salad or steamed vegetables make great side dishes to complement the richness of the casserole.​

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, feel free to use other pasta shapes like rotini or penne.​

Q: How can I make this casserole healthier?
A: Use whole wheat pasta, low-fat cheese, and a reduced-fat soup. Add more vegetables to increase the nutritional value.​

🧀 Variations:

• Spicy Tuna Casserole: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.​

• Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flavor profile.​

• Asian-Inspired: Use soy sauce, sesame oil, and chopped green onions to give the casserole an Asian flair

📌 Final Thoughts:

This Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a timeless classic that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to recipe for families everywhere. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to share at a potluck, this casserole is sure to impress.​

Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and leave a comment below with your favorite variations!