Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe: Easy, Creamy, and Delicious!
This easy tuna noodle casserole recipe is a classic comfort food that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. It's quick to make, requires minimal ingredients, and always delivers a satisfying and flavorful meal. This recipe is optimized for search engines, ensuring it's easily discoverable by those searching for a simple and delicious tuna noodle casserole.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
- 1 pound egg noodles: Choose your favorite brand.
- 2 (5 ounce) cans tuna in water or oil, drained: Look for solid white albacore tuna for a richer flavor.
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: This provides the creamy base for the casserole.
- 1/2 cup milk: This helps thin the soup and adds creaminess.
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar works best, but you can experiment with other cheeses.
- 1/4 cup chopped onion: Adds a subtle savory flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs: For a crispy topping. (Optional, but highly recommended!)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Used for the breadcrumb topping. (Optional)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps for a perfectly creamy and delicious tuna noodle casserole.
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
- Boil a large pot of salted water.
- Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain the noodles thoroughly and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Tuna Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, onion, and black pepper.
- Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
Step 3: Combine Noodles and Tuna Mixture
- Add the cooked noodles to the tuna mixture and gently stir until the noodles are evenly coated.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake (Optional Topping)
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- If using the breadcrumb topping, combine the bread crumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. If using a breadcrumb topping, bake until golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this comforting classic!
Tips and Variations:
- Add vegetables: Enhance the casserole with peas, carrots, or broccoli. Add them to the tuna mixture along with the noodles.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a blend.
- Creamy variations: Substitute cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- What type of noodles can I use? Egg noodles are traditional, but you can experiment with other types of pasta like rotini or shells.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? While not traditionally made in a slow cooker, you could adapt the recipe. Combine the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until heated through.
This easy tuna noodle casserole recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Remember to share this recipe with your friends and family – happy cooking!