Tuna Casserole Recipe

A creamy, hearty and comforting Tuna Casserole that's perfect for family dinners.

There are few dishes as comforting and beloved as a tuna casserole. Originating from the mid-20th century, this quintessential American dish is a staple in many households. With its creamy sauce, tender noodles, and savory addition of tuna, it can easily become a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced cooks.

This Tuna Casserole proudly retains its classic appeal while being enriched with some modern enhancements. Whether you're making it for a casual family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it's sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that's as delicious as it is nostalgic. Let’s explore how you can make this splendid dish right in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of egg noodles
• 2 cans (5 ounces each) of tuna in water, drained
• 1 can (10 3/4 ounces) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 1 cup of frozen peas, thawed
• 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup of chopped onions
• 1/2 cup of chopped celery
• 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons of melted butter
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Nutrition

Calories: ~450 calories

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven reaches the desired temperature by the time you are ready to bake the casserole.
2. Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In a medium skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and celery, and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, sautéed vegetables, tuna, thawed peas, condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and half of the grated cheddar cheese. Stir until well mixed.
5. Season the Mixture: Add salt and black pepper to taste. Be careful with the salt, as the tuna and soup can be quite salty.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish with a bit of butter or non-stick spray. Transfer the tuna mixture to the dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the breadcrumbs and then sprinkle this mixture over the cheese.
8. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to dish out.

Enjoy your homemade tuna casserole! It's a delightful dish best served warm and can be paired with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. A perfect meal for any day of the week.

Tip: To make ahead, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. If you prefer a crunchy topping, try adding some crushed potato chips or fried onions along with the breadcrumbs.