Oh boy, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food—Tuna Casserole with Egg Noodles! This dish is one of those magical creations that takes me back to my childhood. Growing up, my mom would whip it up on cozy Wednesdays, and the savory aroma wafting through the house made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. I love how this recipe is simple yet scrumptious, making it a go-to when I want something comforting and satisfying.
What I adore most about this casserole is how adaptable it is. With just a few pantry staples, you can make a delightful meal that’s perfect for the whole family. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies! Whenever I make this dish now, it feels like I’m not just cooking; I’m also reliving cherished memories of family dinners. So let’s dive into making this delicious Tuna Casserole together!
What’s in Tuna Casserole With Egg Noodles?
Egg Noodles: The star of our show! These soft, comforting noodles provide the perfect base and absorb all the flavors from the casserole. Make sure to cook them just right so they don’t turn mushy.
Tuna: Canned tuna makes this dish super quick and convenient. I prefer the chunk light variety for its tender texture, but any drained canned tuna will work.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is a key ingredient that binds everything together while giving that creamy goodness. It also adds a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Frozen Peas and Carrots Mix: I love using this blend for an easy veggie boost! They add a pop of color and sweetness to the dish. Fresh is great too if you have it!
Milk: Just a splash to help blend everything together perfectly—think of it as the glue that holds all those yummy ingredients.
Cheddar Cheese: Because, let’s face it, cheese makes everything better! I use sharp cheddar for that added punch of flavor.
Bread Crumbs: These give the casserole that lovely crunchy topping we all adore. You can use panko for an extra crispy texture or the regular kind for an old-school vibe.
Butter: I mean, melted butter is truly what life is all about, right? It helps the breadcrumbs brown beautifully while adding richness to your casserole.
Onion: Chopped onion brings an aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly. You can sauté it if you prefer a more mellow taste.
Garlic Powder and Paprika: Totally optional but highly encouraged! These spices pack a flavor punch that elevates the dish to the next level.
Is Tuna Casserole With Egg Noodles Good for You?
Okay, let’s talk health! Tuna Casserole can definitely fit into a balanced diet if made with a few mindful choices.
Tuna: Packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, tuna is great for heart health and muscle maintenance. Just be mindful of the mercury levels depending on your consumption and preference.
Frozen Peas and Carrots: These vibrant veggies add fiber and vitamins A and C, making this casserole a tad healthier.
Cheddar Cheese: While cheese is delicious, it also brings extra calories and fat. You can use reduced-fat cheese if you’re watching your intake!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you want a lighter option, look out for low-sodium or reduced-fat varieties.
This casserole can be a balanced choice when served alongside a crisp salad or some steamed veggies to round out the meal.
Ingredients
– 8 oz egg noodles
– 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup bread crumbs
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1/2 cup onion, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp paprika for added flavor
This recipe makes about **4–6 servings**, perfect for family dinner or leftovers for lunch!
How to Make Tuna Casserole With Egg Noodles?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when your casserole is ready.
2. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are just al dente. Drain them and set aside while you prepare the rest.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, frozen peas and carrots, milk, cheddar cheese, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and any optional garlic powder and paprika. Stir until everything is well mixed.
4. Add the cooked egg noodles to the bowl and gently fold them into the mixture until evenly coated.
5. Transfer the delicious mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter to ensure every crumb is covered. Sprinkle this crispy mixture generously over the casserole.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbling.
8. Pull it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving, letting those flavors meld together perfectly. Enjoy your cozy plate of Tuna Casserole!
Dishing Up Some Extra Love
Oh, the beauty of Tuna Casserole is that it’s super forgiving! Here are a few tips and ideas to make it your own:
– Toss in some diced bell peppers or cooked broccoli for added crunch and nutrition.
– You can swap out the cheddar for a different cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a flavor twist.
– If you like a bit more spice, throw in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
– Serve this casserole alongside a simple side salad or crispy garlic bread for a full meal.
Trust me, you will want to whip this up soon! Not only does it charm your taste buds, but it also fills your home with good vibes and comforting memories, just like it did for me! So grab your apron, gather those ingredients, and let’s bring a little love and nostalgia into your kitchen. I can’t wait to hear how yours turned out!
