Tuna Noodle Casserole – This creamy, savory classic noodle casserole has been a family favorite for generations, bringing together pantry staples like canned tuna, egg noodles, and condensed soup in a warm, comforting embrace.
Why You’ll Love Tuna Noodle Casserole
Tuna Noodle Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition. There’s a lot to love about this dish:
- Quick and Easy: This casserole can be prepped in under 15 minutes and is ideal for busy weeknights.
- Affordable: With ingredients like canned tuna, noodles, and pantry staples, it’s a budget-friendly meal.
- Comforting and Hearty: The creamy sauce and satisfying noodles make it the ultimate comfort food.
- Customizable: There are so many ways to tweak this dish to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Tuna Noodle Casserole
Achieving the perfect tuna noodle casserole requires just a few tricks:
- Use Whole Milk or Heavy Cream: For a richer, creamier sauce, swap the milk for whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: They’ll continue cooking in the oven, so keep them al dente to avoid mushiness.
- Cheese Choices: Cheddar is traditional, but Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even Parmesan can add a unique flavor twist.
- Add Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a fresh touch and enhances flavor.
Delicious Variations of Tuna Noodle Casserole
One of the best things about tuna noodle casserole is how customizable it is! Here are some popular variations to try:
- Vegetable-Packed: Add sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or fresh spinach to sneak in extra veggies.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of hot sauce or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Gluten-Free: Swap regular egg noodles with gluten-free pasta, and use a gluten-free cream soup.
- Lighter Version: Use low-fat milk, reduced-fat cheese, and low-sodium tuna for a healthier twist.
- Extra Crunch: Experiment with different toppings like crushed Ritz crackers, fried onions, or even cornflakes.
How to Serve Tuna Noodle Casserole
Tuna Noodle Casserole is a one-pan wonder, but pairing it with sides can make it an even more satisfying meal. Here are a few ideas:
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, light salad with a tangy vinaigrette perfectly complements the creamy casserole.
- Garlic Bread: Adds a delicious crunch and flavor to the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts bring extra nutrients and color to the table.
Storing and Reheating Tuna Noodle Casserole
Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat them to keep your casserole tasting fresh:
- Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze portions in individual containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to let the casserole cool completely before freezing.
- Reheat: To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave single servings, but the oven will keep the top crispy.
Recipe FAQs
What can I substitute for condensed cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a similar flavor. For a homemade option, create a simple béchamel sauce with butter, flour, and milk, seasoning with salt and pepper.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready. You may need to add a few extra minutes of bake time if it’s going in cold.
Is there a dairy-free option?
Absolutely! Use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup, unsweetened almond milk, and dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version of this casserole.
What’s the best type of tuna for this recipe?
Light tuna in water is generally preferred for its mild flavor and lower calorie count, but feel free to use albacore for a richer flavor.
Why is my casserole too dry?
Overcooked noodles or too little sauce can make the casserole dry. Keep the noodles al dente, and ensure a balanced sauce-to-noodle ratio. Adding a bit of extra milk or cream before baking can also help keep it moist.
Tuna Noodle Casserole
Tuna Noodle Casserole - This creamy, savory classic noodle casserole has been a family favorite for generations, bringing together pantry staples like canned tuna, egg noodles, and condensed soup in a warm, comforting embrace.
Ingredients
- 6 oz albacore tuna
- 6 oz cooked egg noodles
- 10 1/2 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (adds creaminess!)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup diced celery (for that satisfying crunch)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, mayo, and milk until smooth.
- Toss in the diced celery and onion for added texture and flavor.
- Gently mix in the tuna, cooked egg noodles, and shredded cheddar.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, then transfer everything into a casserole dish.
- Pop it in the oven at 375°F for 40-45 minutes, just until the top is bubbly and golden.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 418Total Fat 30gSaturated Fat 7gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 21gCholesterol 56mgSodium 998mgCarbohydrates 20gFiber 1gSugar 3gProtein 17g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This tuna noodle casserole recipe is a comforting and versatile dish that belongs in every home cook’s recipe box. Whether you’re a casserole aficionado or new to the world of one-pan meals, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers delightful results every time. With its endless variations, family-friendly flavors, and simple preparation, it’s no wonder this dish has remained a household staple for decades.
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