You are about to discover the ultimate in easy, comforting meals! This classic tuna noodle casserole recipe is a timeless favorite for a reason. It is quick to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and always a hit with the family. Perfect for any busy weeknight meal, it brings together simple pantry ingredients for a big, nostalgic flavor everyone will adore.
Why You’ll Love This Tuna Noodle Casserole
You will find so many reasons to adore this easy tuna noodle casserole. It truly makes mealtime simple and delicious.
- Effortless Preparation: This recipe comes together with minimal fuss, perfect for busy evenings.
- Budget-Friendly: You likely have most ingredients in your pantry already, making it an economical choice.
- Highly Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to suit your family’s tastes or what you have on hand.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: It is a warm, creamy, and satisfying dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
- Feeds a Crowd: This hearty casserole easily serves multiple people, making it great for gatherings or meal prepping.
Ingredients
Creating this delicious tuna noodle casserole requires just a few basic, readily available ingredients. Gather these items to begin your comforting culinary journey:
- 3 cups egg noodles (measured dry, approximately 6 ounces)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 ribs celery (diced)
- ⅔ cup frozen peas (thawed)
- 1 (5 ounce each) can tuna (drained)
Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, canned tuna offers several notable health benefits. - 1 (10.5 ounce each) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ⅓ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for the casserole mixture)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Notes & Substitutions
You can easily adapt this tuna noodle casserole to fit your preferences. For tuna, water-packed varieties offer a lighter flavor, while oil-packed adds richness. If you do not have egg noodles, consider using rotini, penne, or macaroni for a similar texture. Feel free to swap condensed cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or celery soup, or even a homemade béchamel for a richer sauce. Boost your veggies by adding corn, diced carrots, or steamed broccoli florets. Other great cheese options include Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a blend. For the topping, crushed Ritz crackers or potato chips make a delightfully crunchy alternative to panko.
Equipment
You only need a few basic kitchen tools to make this wonderful tuna noodle casserole. These common items will help you prepare and bake your dish with ease.
- A large pot for boiling the noodles.
- A skillet for sautéing the aromatics.
- A large mixing bowl to combine all the ingredients.
- A 2-quart casserole dish for baking.
Instructions
Making this easy tuna noodle casserole is straightforward and fun! Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfect, comforting meal.
- Prepare Topping: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a small bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, 1 tablespoon melted butter, and ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese. If using fresh parsley, add it here too; otherwise, save dried parsley for the casserole mixture. Stir everything well and set this crunchy topping aside.
- Cook Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 3 cups of dry egg noodles and cook them according to package directions until they are al dente. This typically takes about 7-9 minutes. Do not overcook them; they will bake further in the oven. Drain the noodles thoroughly and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: While the noodles cook, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and become tender.
- Combine Casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained egg noodles, the sautéed onion and celery mixture, thawed frozen peas, the drained can of tuna, condensed cream of mushroom soup, and ⅓ cup milk. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the remaining 1 tablespoon of fresh or 1 teaspoon of dried parsley. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until everything is evenly coated and well combined. This is your creamy tuna noodle casserole base.
- Assemble Casserole: Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish. Pour the entire noodle mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Ensure the mixture is distributed from edge to edge for consistent baking.
- Add Topping: Take the bread crumb mixture you prepared earlier. Evenly sprinkle this crunchy topping over the entire surface of the casserole. Make sure to cover the edges as well for maximum crispiness.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish into your preheated oven. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the topping is beautifully golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Tuna Noodle Casserole
Elevate your tuna noodle casserole with these simple pro tips. You will achieve perfect results every time.
- Avoid Overcooking Noodles: Cook your egg noodles just until al dente. They will finish cooking in the oven, preventing a mushy texture.
- Season Well: Taste your casserole mixture before baking. Add a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a dash of onion powder for enhanced flavor.
- Ensure Creamy Texture: If your mixture seems too thick, add a splash more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a creamy consistency.
- Achieve Crispy Topping: For an extra golden and crispy topping, consider broiling for the last minute or two of baking. Watch it carefully to prevent burning.
- Add Garlic Powder: A small pinch of garlic powder or a half teaspoon of minced garlic can add a wonderful aromatic depth to the casserole.
Serving, Storage, and Variations
Make the most of your delicious tuna noodle casserole with these handy tips. From serving to storing, we have you covered.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting dish with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for balance. A side of warm, crusty bread or homemade biscuits is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. You could also complement it with a simple side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans.
Storing Leftovers
Allow any leftover tuna noodle casserole to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for individual portions.
Freezing Tuna Noodle Casserole
For optimal food safety and quality, understanding proper techniques for freezing casseroles and make-ahead meals is important. You can freeze this casserole both unbaked or baked and cooled. Wrap the entire dish tightly in a double layer of foil and then plastic wrap. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating. Adjust baking time as needed for a frozen, unbaked casserole.
Recipe Variations
Get creative with your tuna noodle casserole! Add different cooked vegetables like diced bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or thawed mixed vegetables. Experiment with other pasta shapes such as penne or rotini for a new texture. Try different cheese blends like Monterey Jack or a smoky gouda. For an even more indulgent dish, make a homemade cream sauce instead of using canned soup. Spice it up with a pinch of paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
Nutrition Information
This nutrition information is an estimate only and will vary based on specific ingredients and preparation. It provides a general guide for your planning.
- Serving Size: 1.25 cup
- Calories: 323 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 19g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Vitamin A: 25% DV
- Vitamin C: 5% DV
- Calcium: 20% DV
- Iron: 10% DV
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to some common questions about making a delicious tuna noodle casserole. These tips will help ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
- What kind of tuna works best? Both water-packed and oil-packed tuna work great. Water-packed tuna offers a lighter flavor, while oil-packed adds a richer taste and texture. Always drain the tuna well before adding it to the casserole.
- Can I prepare tuna noodle casserole ahead of time? Yes, absolutely! You can assemble the casserole completely, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
- What if I do not have cream of mushroom soup? No problem! You can substitute it with condensed cream of chicken or cream of celery soup. Alternatively, you can make a simple homemade béchamel sauce for a from-scratch touch.
- How do I prevent mushy noodles? The key is to cook your egg noodles only until al dente, meaning they still have a slight bite. They will continue to cook and soften in the oven, so undercooking them slightly at first is ideal.
- What are some good side dishes for this casserole? A fresh green salad, steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or even some garlic bread are excellent choices. They provide a nice contrast to the rich, creamy casserole.
Conclusion
This classic tuna noodle casserole truly embodies simple, comforting cooking. Its enduring popularity stems from its ease of preparation and its wonderfully nostalgic flavor. We hope you feel inspired to try this recipe for yourself. It is the perfect easy weeknight family meal that guarantees smiles and full bellies around the table. Enjoy this timeless favorite!