Classic Tuna Casserole is the comforting dish that wraps you in a warm hug, blending creamy textures with the delightful crunch of breadcrumbs. Picture this: a bubbling casserole, golden on top and infused with the aroma of savory tuna mingling with tender noodles, coming together like a cozy family reunion. savory zuppa toscana soup hearty cheesy beef noodle casserole. For more inspiration, check out this creamy seafood recipe recipe.
Every bite transports me back to my childhood kitchen, where my mom whipped up this classic dish on chilly evenings. It was our go-to meal for family gatherings, filling the air with laughter and the irresistible scent of nostalgia. delicious lemon garlic tuna cakes Whether it’s a rainy day or a busy weeknight, Classic Tuna Casserole promises to be your delicious escape.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Classic Tuna Casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavor combination of creamy sauce and tender pasta will please everyone at the dinner table
- Its inviting golden-brown top makes it visually appealing and mouthwatering
- Versatile enough for any occasion, this dish can be served as a main course or side
I remember once serving this casserole at a potluck, and people were fighting over the last spoonful!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta: I prefer using egg noodles for their comforting texture, but feel free to switch it up with whole wheat or gluten-free options.
Canned Tuna: Choose high-quality tuna packed in water or oil; both work well and add delightful flavor to the casserole.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is your base for creaminess; opt for low-fat if you’re watching calories or go full fat for indulgence.
Milk: Whole milk adds richness, but skim milk works just fine if you want to keep things lighter.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar gives that cheesy goodness; sprinkle generously on top before baking for an irresistible crust.
Frozen Peas: These tiny green gems add color and sweetness; no need to thaw them before mixing in.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs for that crunchy topping; mix with melted butter for extra flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when your casserole hits the oven, it starts cooking evenly right away.
Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling water, cook the egg noodles until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while you prepare the rest.
Mix it Up!: In a large mixing bowl, combine drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and frozen peas. Stir until everything is well mixed and creamy.
Add Noodles and Seasoning: Fold in your cooked noodles gently until they are coated in the creamy mixture. Season with salt and pepper according to taste; don’t hold back!
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour your delicious mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every spoonful is packed with flavor.
Add Toppings & Bake!: Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle generously over the top of your casserole. Bake for about 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Enjoy that heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen!
With these steps completed, your Classic Tuna Casserole will be ready to enjoy—perfectly baked and oh-so-comforting!
You Must Know
- This classic tuna casserole is a comforting dish that combines creamy goodness with crispy toppings
- It’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a nostalgic family meal
- The delightful blend of flavors and textures will make everyone at the table smile!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta until al dente, then sauté onions and garlic while mixing the sauce. perfect tartar sauce pairing Combine everything in one dish for easy baking. For more inspiration, check out this creamy chicken pasta recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add vegetables like peas or bell peppers, or swap in different cheeses for unique flavors. Experiment with spices to find your perfect blend.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Don’t skip draining the tuna properly to avoid a soggy casserole
- Consider using fresh herbs for added flavor
- A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top creates a delightful crunch
Sharing this recipe with my family brought back memories of cozy winter evenings when my mom would whip it up, filling our home with delicious aromas that made us all feel loved.
FAQ
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned for this classic tuna casserole?
Using fresh tuna is possible, but ensure it is cooked properly before adding it.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
You can use homemade cream sauce or substitute with cream of chicken soup if needed.
How do I make this casserole gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your soup is also gluten-free.
Classic Tuna Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Classic Tuna Casserole is a nostalgic, comforting dish that combines creamy tuna and tender noodles topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this classic recipe is easy to prepare and full of flavor, making every bite feel like a warm hug from childhood.
Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 (12.5 oz) can tuna, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen peas
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- In a large bowl, mix drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, and frozen peas until combined.
- Gently fold in the cooked noodles and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition. Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda for unique flavors. For gluten-free options, substitute with gluten-free pasta and ensure your soup is gluten-free.
