![To make this dish, you need a few key items. Here’s what you’ll need: - 12 oz egg noodles - 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained and flaked - 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup - 1 cup frozen peas - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup milk - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon black pepper - 1 teaspoon salt - 1 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs for topping - 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter These ingredients come together to create a warm, creamy dish that is full of flavor. You can add your own twist to the casserole. Here are some optional ingredients you might like: - 1 cup cooked, diced celery for crunch - 1 cup sliced mushrooms for extra flavor - 1 teaspoon dried herbs like thyme or oregano - 1 cup cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein Feel free to mix and match these to make the dish your own. If you don’t have something on hand, don’t worry! Here are some substitutes: - Swap egg noodles for whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta. - Use cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom soup for a different taste. - Replace cheddar cheese with mozzarella or pepper jack for a new flavor. - Instead of tuna, you can use canned salmon or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. These swaps can help you make the casserole with what you have. For the full recipe, check out [Full Recipe]. First, gather your ingredients. You will need: - 12 oz egg noodles - 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained and flaked - 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup - 1 cup frozen peas - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup milk - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon black pepper - 1 teaspoon salt - 1 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs for topping - 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, cook the egg noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water. Follow the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside for later. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, frozen peas, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until everything is combined well. Gently fold the cooked egg noodles into the mixture. Ensure that every noodle gets a bit of that creamy goodness. Now it’s time to prepare your baking dish. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil or melted butter. Pour your tuna noodle mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Top your casserole with crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs. This adds a nice crunch. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Look for a bubbly center and golden brown top to know it’s ready. Once your casserole is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This helps the flavors settle. Serve it straight from the dish for a cozy feel. You can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for color. Pair it with a simple side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy every comforting bite! For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. When making Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole, avoid overcooking the noodles. Noodles should be al dente. If you cook them too long, they become mushy in the casserole. Another mistake is using too little liquid. Ensure you add enough milk and soup for a creamy base. Also, do not skip the seasoning. Salt and pepper enhance the dish's flavor. Lastly, avoid using stale toppings. Fresh potato chips or breadcrumbs give a nice crunch. To boost flavor, try adding fresh herbs. Chopped parsley or dill works well. You can also mix in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture. For a cheesy twist, use different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda. Adding a splash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce can add depth to the dish. Consider topping the casserole with crispy fried onions for added crunch and flavor. Using the right tools makes cooking easier. A large pot is essential for boiling noodles. A mixing bowl helps combine all the ingredients well. A 9x13 inch baking dish is perfect for this recipe. A spatula is useful for folding the noodles into the mixture. Lastly, an oven thermometer ensures your oven is at the right temperature. Following these tips will help you create a fantastic casserole. For full details on the recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. {{image_2}} You can change the protein in this dish to keep it exciting. Instead of tuna, try chicken or salmon. Both work well and bring their own unique flavor. You can also use canned shrimp for a seafood twist. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed. These changes still keep the dish creamy and comforting. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the tuna for mushrooms or chickpeas. Both add a nice, hearty texture. You can also use cooked lentils for a boost of protein. Add more veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. This keeps the casserole colorful and healthy. The cream of mushroom soup brings a rich taste, making it still feel like a classic. For a gluten-free dish, choose gluten-free pasta or rice noodles. Many brands offer good options that taste great. You can also make your own cream of mushroom soup using gluten-free flour or cornstarch. Ensure all your ingredients, like the potato chips or breadcrumbs, are certified gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy a comforting bowl of tuna noodle casserole. For more details, check out the Full Recipe. You can store leftover tuna noodle casserole in an airtight container. Let it cool first, then cover it tightly. This will keep it fresh for about 3-4 days in the fridge. If you want to save it longer, consider freezing it. Make sure to label the container with the date so you remember when you made it. To reheat the casserole, you have a few options. The best way is to use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s hot throughout. You can also use the microwave. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover it. Heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, checking every minute until hot. Freezing is a great option if you want to save casserole for later. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. You might also use foil to wrap it tightly. It will stay good in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Enjoy your classic tuna noodle casserole anytime! Yes, you can make Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole ahead of time. Prepare the dish, but do not bake it. Cover the casserole with foil or plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to bake, just remove the cover and place it in the oven. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Tuna Noodle Casserole pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas: - Fresh garden salad - Steamed green beans - Roasted vegetables - Garlic bread - Coleslaw These sides add color and balance to the meal. Try mixing and matching to find your favorite combo. Tuna Noodle Casserole lasts about three to four days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. When you want to eat it, just reheat in the oven or microwave. This dish tastes great, even as leftovers! If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Check out the Full Recipe for more tips on storage and reheating. This blog post covered the classic tuna noodle casserole, its main and optional ingredients, and how to customize it. I explained step-by-step how to prepare and bake the dish, along with tips for serving. We explored common mistakes and ways to enhance flavor. I also shared variations like vegetarian and gluten-free options. Finally, I provided storage tips for leftovers and answered common questions. This easy dish brings comfort and warmth to any table. You can make it your own and enjoy it over and over. Happy cooking!](https://pureeatsnow.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/eb861386-39d0-4eb3-a847-a12ab6617128-250x250.webp)
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole recipe! Loaded with creamy goodness, flaky tuna, and a crunchy topping, this dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. With easy-to-follow steps, you can whip it up in just 45 minutes. Click through to explore the detailed recipe and treat your loved ones to this delicious homemade classic that will surely become a staple in your kitchen!