Ultimate Tuna Noodle Casserole: Comfort Food Recipe

Tuna noodle casserole is the ultimate comfort food, bursting with creamy goodness and the nostalgic flavors of childhood dinners. Picture this: tender noodles enveloped in a rich, savory sauce, dotted with flaky tuna and a sprinkle of crispy breadcrumbs on top, bubbling away in the oven like a warm hug on a plate.

This dish holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air and the aroma wafted through the kitchen. Whether it’s a rainy day or a cozy night in, tuna noodle casserole makes any occasion feel just right.

I remember the first time I made tuna noodle casserole for my friends; their faces lit up as they took their first bites, and I knew I had struck gold.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Egg Noodles: Use about 12 ounces; they hold the creamy sauce beautifully while adding a comforting texture.

• Canned Tuna: About two cans of solid white tuna packed in water work best for flavor and moisture.

• Cream of Mushroom Soup: Choose low-fat for a lighter option or go full-fat for extra creaminess.

• Milk: Whole milk adds richness; however, you can substitute with low-fat if you’re watching your calories.

• Frozen Peas: These add pops of sweetness and color; no need to thaw them beforehand.

• Cheddar Cheese: About 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar gives that irresistible cheesy pull and flavor.

• Breadcrumbs: For topping; mix with some melted butter for added crunch and flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grab a large pot. Bring salted water to a boil for cooking your egg noodles until al dente—about 6-8 minutes works perfectly.

Cook the Noodles: Add the egg noodles to boiling water and cook until they’re al dente. Drain them well but don’t rinse; you want that starchy goodness to help bind everything together.

Mix the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, and drained tuna. Stir until smooth; you’ll want this mixture to be creamy without any lumps for that delicious comfort.

Add Veggies and Cheese: Toss in frozen peas and half of your shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until it’s evenly coated; this is where the magic begins.

Combine with Noodles: Gently fold in your cooked noodles into the tuna mixture until every strand is lovingly embraced by that creamy sauce.

Bake Away!: Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese followed by breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter—this will give you that perfect golden crust! Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbling hot and golden brown on top.

Enjoy this delightful tuna noodle casserole hot out of the oven! A sprinkle of fresh parsley can elevate its presentation if you’re feeling fancy today. You’ve just created a magical meal that warms hearts—one spoonful at a time!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling pasta until al dente while sautéing onions and garlic in a separate pan. Combine everything with tuna and sauce, then bake until bubbly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap tuna for chicken or add veggies like peas or corn for extra flavor. Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot throughout.

Sometimes I find myself reminiscing about family gatherings where this casserole stole the show—everyone loved it so much that I barely got leftovers!

FAQ

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just cook the fresh tuna beforehand and flake it into the mix.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

You can use homemade béchamel sauce or any cream-based soup you prefer.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Simply replace regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure your soup is also gluten-free.

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Tuna Noodle Casserole

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Tuna noodle casserole is the quintessential comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. This creamy, cheesy dish combines tender egg noodles with flaky tuna, vibrant peas, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, creating a mouthwatering meal perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this classic recipe is sure to please everyone in your household.

• Author: Logan Reed
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz egg noodles
• 2 cans solid white tuna, packed in water
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook egg noodles in salted boiling water for 6-8 minutes until al dente; drain.
2. In a large bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, and drained tuna until smooth.
3. Stir in frozen peas and half of the cheddar cheese.
4. Gently fold in the cooked noodles until evenly coated with the sauce.
5. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 50mg