Tuna Casserole: A Comforting and Easy Classic

Tuna casserole is a nostalgic dish that combines simple pantry staples into a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether you’re making it for a quick family dinner or a potluck, this creamy and flavorful casserole is sure to please. Here’s how to prepare a delicious tuna casserole from scratch.

The Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 12 ounces egg noodles

• 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or homemade equivalent)

• ½ cup milk

• 1 cup frozen peas (thawed)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (such as Ritz)

• 2 tablespoons melted butter

• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.

2. Cook the Noodles

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.

4. Mix the Ingredients

• Add the cooked noodles, tuna, peas, and shredded cheddar cheese (if using) to the sauce. Gently stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.

5. Assemble the Casserole

• Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.

6. Make the Topping

• In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers) with melted butter and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.

7. Bake

• Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

8. Serve

• Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Success

1. Customize the Vegetables: Add diced carrots, chopped broccoli, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

2. Use High-Quality Tuna: Solid white albacore tuna provides the best texture and flavor, but chunk light tuna works well for a more economical option.

3. Make It Creamier: Substitute sour cream or cream cheese for half of the milk to create a richer sauce.

4. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free noodles and breadcrumbs to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Serving Suggestions

Pair tuna casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Why We Love Tuna Casserole

Tuna casserole is a comforting classic that’s easy to make and endlessly adaptable. Its creamy texture, savory flavors, and satisfying crunch make it a go-to dish for busy nights and casual gatherings. Try this recipe and enjoy a meal that’s as nostalgic as it is delicious.