Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe

Are you looking for a simple yet satisfying meal that can be prepared quickly? Then, why not try making tuna noodle casserole? This classic comfort food is easy to make, and you can customize it according to your taste buds. The dish can be made ahead, so it is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to have something comforting to eat.

To make this dish, you’d need a few ingredients such as canned tuna, noodles, milk, cheese, and some veggies. The prep work is simple, and you can use different types of noodles and vegetables to add a twist to this dish. You can use frozen peas, carrots, and mushrooms for a quick and no-fuss option. Alternatively, you can add some fresh spinach and tomatoes to make it healthier. The beauty of this dish is that there are so many possibilities, so you can make it your own. Let’s get started!

Ingredients you will need for the Tuna Noodle Casserole

It is essential to have all the ingredients before you start preparing the tuna noodle casserole. Here is the list of all the ingredients that you will need for preparing the dish:

1. Tuna

You will need two cans of tuna for making the casserole. Choose tuna in water or oil as per your preference.

2. Noodles

One of the essential ingredients of the dish is the noodles. For preparing the tuna noodle casserole, you will need 12 ounces of egg noodles or any other pasta.

3. Cream of Mushroom soup

Cream of mushroom soup adds a delicious creaminess to casserole. You will need two cans of cream of mushroom soup to make the dish flavorful.

4. Milk

You will need one cup of milk for making the casserole. Use full-fat milk to make the dish creamier.

5. Cheddar cheese

For adding an extra flavor to your casserole, you will need one cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

6. Onion

One finely chopped onion is required to make the dish flavorful.

7. Garlic

One minced garlic will add a delicious flavor to the dish.

8. Frozen peas and carrots

Half a cup of frozen peas and carrots adds a unique texture to the dish. You can also use frozen corn kernels.

9. Salt and pepper

Add salt and freshly ground black pepper as per your taste.

10. Bread crumbs

Lastly, one cup of bread crumbs is needed to sprinkle on top of the casserole. It adds an extra crunch to the dish.

Preparing the Tuna Noodle Casserole

Now that we have all the ingredients let’s move on to preparing the tuna noodle casserole.

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Cook the noodles as per the instructions on the package. Once it’s ready, drain the water and set it aside.

Step 2: Preheat the oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Step 3: Sauté onion and garlic

In a large skillet, sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat until the onions turn translucent.

Step 4: Add Tuna, peas, and carrots

Add two cans of drained tuna, half a cup of frozen peas and carrots to the skillet and cook for two minutes.

Step 5: Add mushroom soup and milk to the skillet

Add two cans of cream of mushroom soup and one cup of milk to the skillet and mix well.

Step 6: Add cooked noodles and cheddar cheese

Now add the cooked noodles and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet and mix well.

Step 7: Transfer to a casserole dish

Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with butter and transfer the mixture to the dish.

Step 8: Add bread crumbs

Sprinkle one cup of bread crumbs on top of the mixture.

Step 9: Bake

Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes or until the bread crumbs turn golden brown.

Step 10: Serve

Finally, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve it with a side of salad or garlic bread.

Conclusion

Tuna noodle casserole is a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck party. By following these simple steps, you can prepare this scrumptious dish in no time. Serve it hot and enjoy the creamy and cheesy goodness.

The Ingredients

Before creating the perfect tuna noodle casserole, it’s essential to have all the necessary ingredients ready. Here are the essential ingredients:

1. 8 oz. egg noodles
2. 12 oz. canned tuna
3. 1 can cream of mushroom soup
4. 1 cup milk
5. 1/2 cup mayonnaise
6. 1/2 cup celery, chopped
7. 1/2 cup onion, chopped
8. 1 cup frozen peas
9. 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
10. 1/2 tsp. salt and black pepper
11. 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
12. 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Choosing the right noodles

The main ingredient of any casserole is noodles. For this recipe, we use egg noodles. Egg noodles are soft and absorbent, making them perfect for a casserole dish.

Canned tuna

Canned tuna is a staple ingredient for all tuna casseroles. It’s ready to use and doesn’t require any extra preparation. Be sure to choose chunk light tuna for a healthier option.

Cream of mushroom soup

Cream of mushroom soup is the base of the casserole, adding creaminess and flavor. You may also substitute cream of chicken soup if mushroom soup isn’t available.

The right amount of milk and mayonnaise

The milk and mayonnaise add a smooth and rich texture to the casserole. Ensure to use equal amounts of milk and mayonnaise in your recipe.

Add Vegetables

The addition of veggies to your dish can’t be understated. Vegetables like celery, onions, and peas add colors, flavor, and nutrients to your casserole. Simply chop the celery and onions, then add the frozen peas.

Spices and Cheese

The spices, including garlic powder, black pepper, and salt, add extra flavor to your recipe. Cheddar cheese is the perfect cheese for this recipe, adding a cheesy crusted texture to the top of the dish.

Breadcrumbs topping

No casserole is complete without a crunchy topping. Breadcrumbs are an excellent choice as they absorb the moisture from the dish and become crispy.

Substitutions

If you’re allergic or not a fan of a particular ingredient, you may substitute them with other ingredients. For instance, you may use green peppers instead of celery or skip the breadcrumbs altogether.

Measurements

Ensure to have the appropriate amount of all your ingredients, using a measuring cup or spoon as needed. Use precise measurements to strike the perfect balance of ingredients.

Preparation

Before you begin cooking, ensure to have a clean kitchen work-space. Preheat your oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit, so it’s ready when you need it. Have a large mixing bowl, casserole dish, a cooking pot, and a saucepan at your disposal. Let’s cook!

Ingredients

To make a delicious tuna noodle casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

Instructions

Now that you have all of your ingredients ready, let’s start preparing your tuna noodle casserole. Here are the steps:

Step 1: Cook the egg noodles

Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.

Step 2: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F.

Step 3: Make the sauce

In a saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 4 tablespoons of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper and whisk until smooth. Gradually add 2 cups of milk and continue whisking until the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Add the tuna and cheese to the sauce

Mix in the canned tuna and 1 cup of shredded cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese melts and the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Combine the noodles and sauce

Add the cooked egg noodles to the sauce and mix until the noodles are coated in the sauce.

Step 6: Prepare the casserole

Transfer the tuna noodle mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of dry breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole.

Step 7: Bake in the oven

Bake the tuna noodle casserole in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-prepare tuna noodle casserole!

Enjoy Your Tuna Noodle Casserole!

There you have it, folks! A delicious and easy recipe for tuna noodle casserole that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner. Don’t forget to thank our oceans for providing us with this tasty fish. We hope you give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out. Thanks for reading, and we hope to see you back again soon for more yummy recipes!