Tuna Noodle Casserole is one of those classic comfort dishes that many of us grew up with. It’s creamy, filling, and easy to make, using simple pantry staples. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal or something cozy to feed the family, this casserole hits the spot. It’s perfect when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
| Servings | Total |
| 6 | 40mins |
History of Tuna Noodle Casserole
Tuna Noodle Casserole became popular in the United States around the 1950s, as families sought affordable and easy-to-make meals. With canned tuna and condensed soup as key ingredients, it was a dish that could be thrown together quickly with ingredients people already had at home. Over the years, it became a staple of American home cooking, especially in the Midwest, and has continued to be a beloved dish ever since.
Why Tuna Noodle Casserole
Tuna Noodle Casserole is a great option because it’s not only delicious but also budget-friendly. It’s the kind of dish you can whip up with items you likely already have in your pantry, making it a go-to for busy weeknights. It’s also a comforting and warm dish, perfect for feeding a crowd or packing leftovers for the next day.
What is Tuna Noodle Casserole Made of?
The basic ingredients of a Tuna Noodle Casserole include:
- Canned tuna: Provides protein and adds a seafood flavor to the dish.
- Egg noodles: These are the base of the casserole, offering a soft and chewy texture.
- Cream of mushroom soup: Gives the casserole its creamy, comforting sauce.
- Milk: Helps thin the sauce and make it smooth.
- Frozen peas: Adds a touch of sweetness and texture.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: To make it cheesy and delicious.
- Breadcrumbs or potato chips: For a crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy casserole.
What to Have with Tuna Noodle Casserole
Tuna Noodle Casserole pairs well with simple side dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Green salad: A crisp, refreshing salad balances out the richness of the casserole.
- Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
- Steamed vegetables: Like broccoli or carrots for some added nutrients.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy side that complements the creaminess of the dish.
Is Tuna Noodle Casserole Healthy?
Tuna Noodle Casserole can be nutritious since it includes protein from tuna and vegetables like peas. However, the use of creamy soup and cheese can make it higher in fat and calories. You can make it healthier by using low-fat cream of mushroom soup, swapping full-fat milk for skim milk, and using whole-grain noodles. Adding extra vegetables, such as carrots or spinach, also boosts the nutritional value.
Kitchen Equipment
- Large pot: For boiling the noodles.
- Mixing bowl: Combine all the ingredients.
- 9×13 inch baking dish: For baking the casserole.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For mixing and serving.
- Oven: Bake the casserole until golden and bubbly.
Ingredients
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Cook the noodles: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, drained tuna, frozen peas, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine noodles and filling: Add the cooked noodles to the tuna mixture and gently stir to coat the noodles in the sauce.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Add topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips
- If you like a creamier casserole, you can add an extra can of cream of mushroom soup or a splash of more milk.
- Swap out the cream of mushroom soup for cream of celery or cream of chicken for a slightly different flavor.
- For added crunch, you can mix some melted butter with the breadcrumbs before adding them on top.
- If you want extra veggies, feel free to add mushrooms, carrots, or even spinach into the mix.
Conclusion
Tuna Noodle Casserole is a timeless dish that’s not only easy to make but also comforting and delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this casserole hits all the right notes with its creamy sauce, tender noodles, and crispy topping. Pair it with a simple salad or veggies, and you’ve got a complete meal that everyone will love.
MORE RECIPES
The Best Tuna Noodle Casserole
Equipment
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, drained tuna, frozen peas, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked noodles to the tuna mixture and gently stir to coat the noodles in the sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.