tuna casserole recipe

Name: tuna casserole recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 12 oz egg noodles; 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup (canned); 1 cup milk; 10 oz canned tuna (drained); 1 cup frozen peas (thawed); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Okay, let’s talk comfort food. For me, it doesn’t get much better than a warm, creamy tuna Casserole Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that instantly takes me back to my childhood, to cozy weeknights and the feeling of being utterly content. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, seriously! If mac and cheese is the king of comfort, then this tuna casserole is definitely the queen! It’s surprisingly simple, incredibly flavorful, and my kids practically inhale it. So, if you’re looking for something easy, satisfying, and reminiscent of home, you’ve come to the right place.

What is a tuna casserole?

What is tuna casserole? It’s essentially a creamy, baked dish typically featuring tuna (duh!). ), pasta, and a sauce made from condensed soup. What are some good ways to top a potato chip with crispy breadcrumbs? What is the beauty of tuna casserole? How do I use up ingredients I already have on hand? How can I change my profile to your Is this a blank canvas for culinary creativity? I’ve seen some variations with peas and carrots, giving it a colorful and nutritious flavor.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Honestly, what’s not to love? This tuna Casserole Recipe is a winner for so many reasons. First off, the flavor is incredible. The creaminess of the sauce, combined with the savory tuna and perfectly cooked pasta, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that just makes you feel good. It’s salty, comforting, and utterly satisfying. What I love most is that it’s so unbelievably easy to make. This is a lifesaver on those busy weeknights when you’re short on time and energy. Plus, it’s incredibly cost-efficient. Canned tuna is a budget-friendly protein, and you probably already have most of the other ingredients in your pantry.

And let’s not forget about versatility! You can serve it as a main course, a side dish, or even pack it for lunch. My husband sometimes takes leftovers to work. This dish reminds me of my mom’s Chicken Pot Pie, both are creamy and filling, but tuna casserole is ready in half the time. Another perk? It’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies! Feel free to add peas, corn, or whatever your family enjoys. Trust me, this tuna casserole recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It has in mine!

How do you make a tuna casserole?

Quick Overview

Making this tuna Casserole Recipe is surprisingly straightforward. You’ll start by cooking the pasta, then creating a creamy sauce with condensed soup, milk, and seasonings. Next, you’ll combine the pasta, sauce, tuna, and any veggies you like. Pour everything into a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs or crushed chips, and bake until bubbly and golden brown. The best part? It takes less than an hour from start to finish. Even on those hectic weeknights, you’ll have plenty of time to make a tasty and filling tuna casserole.

Ingredients

For the Main Casserole:

1 pound egg noodles. 1 tablespoon.
2 (5 ounce) cans of tuna in water, drained.
1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup. 1 (10.75 ounce) can.
1/2 cup milk (I’ve tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!)
1/2 cup frozen peas.
1/4 cup chopped onion.
1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, but I think it adds a nice zing!)
Salt and pepper to taste.

For the Topping: What is the

1 cup crushed potato chips (or breadcrumbs) – 1 teaspoon.
2 tablespoons of melted butter (optional, for breadcrumbs)

How do I follow

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I always use cooking spray for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Cook egg noodles according to package directions. Drain well. Don’t overcook them – you want them to be slightly al dente, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven. What is the best way to avoid mushy

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk. Whisk until smooth. I always add a splash of milk to ensure an extra creamy consistency.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the drained tuna, cooked noodles, frozen peas, chopped onion, and lemon juice (if using) to the soup. What is the best way to serve the sauce? Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently stir everything together until well combined. Be careful not to break up the tuna too much.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Then pour the tuna mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 6: Prepare the Topping

If using breadcrumbs, toss them with the melted butter. This helps them get nice and golden brown. If using crushed potato chips, simply sprinkle them evenly over the casserole.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is firm. I check it around 20 minutes to make sure the topping isn’t burning. I usually check around 30 minutes for this to happen.

Step 8: Cool & Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly. I always serve it hot, straight from the oven.

What is the best way to serve it?

What is a tuna casserole? What are some good ideas?

For a Simple Side:What’s a good salad with green salad dressing? The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the casserole.

For a Heartier Meal: Steamed Green Beans or roasted asparagus. These add a healthy dose of vegetables.

What is a cozy night? A side of garlic bread or warm rolls. Perfect for soaking up all that creamy sauce.

As a Snack:What makes potato chips so good?

My family loves it with a side of coleslaw or maybe just with some simple fruit salad. My grandma always served it with a slice of buttered toast. Is it possible to go wrong with anything? What makes your belly feel good?

How do I make a perfect tuna casserole?

What is the best way to take your tuna casserole game to the next level? What are some of the best tips I’ve learned over the years?

Noodle Choice:Can you use other types of pasta? How do I make a penne, rotini or macaroni?

Tuna Type:I prefer tuna in water because it’s lighter, but tunal in oil will add extra richness. Just be sure to drain it well.

Veggie Boost: Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped celery, carrots, or mushrooms. I sometimes sauté them before adding them to the casserole.

Cheese Please: For an extra cheesy casserole, stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella cheese before baking. I’ve even tried it with Gruyere, and it was amazing!

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick. My husband likes it with a sprinkle of paprika on top before baking.

Crispy Topping: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the topping. Crushed Ritz crackers, French-fried onions, or even a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese are all delicious options.

Soup Swap: Cream of celery or cream of chicken soup can be used instead of cream of mushroom soup. I like to add a dollop of sour cream before baking for extra richness. Learned this after many years of baking tuna casserole and perfecting my recipe!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your tuna casserole:

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving tuna casserole at room temperature for more than two hours, as bacteria can grow rapidly.

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover tuna casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I always make sure it’s completely cooled before refrigerating it.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze tuna casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Glaze Timing Advice: If you added a breadcrumb topping, I recommend adding more when reheating so it regains its crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips. You’ll also want to check the label of your condensed soup to ensure it’s gluten-free.

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

While you could, I don’t recommend it. Canned tuna is more convenient and has a milder flavor that works well in this dish. If you do use fresh tuna, be sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Absolutely! Cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyere are all great choices. Stir in a cup of shredded cheese before baking for an extra cheesy casserole.

What can I use instead of condensed soup?

You can make a homemade cream sauce using butter, flour, milk, and seasonings. However, the condensed soup is what gives this casserole its classic flavor and convenience.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, add the topping and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my go-to tuna casserole recipe! It’s a dish that’s near and dear to my heart, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your home too. It’s incredibly easy to make, budget-friendly, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re craving a comforting weeknight dinner or simply want to indulge in a bit of nostalgia, this tuna casserole is sure to hit the spot. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like my recipe for creamy chicken pot pie, it’s another one of my family’s favorites. Happy cooking, my friends! And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how your tuna casserole turns out. I can’t wait to hear about your variations and tips!

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