Tuna Casserole Recipe

Cooked egg noodles: These form the base of the casserole and provide a hearty texture.

Drained tuna: Adds protein and a savory flavor to the dish.

Frozen peas: Brings a pop of color and sweetness to the casserole.

Cream of mushroom soup: Creates a creamy, flavorful sauce that binds the ingredients together.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the casserole, adding a rich, cheesy taste.

Milk: Helps to thin the soup and create a smooth sauce.

Breadcrumbs: Provides a crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy casserole.

When mixing the cooked egg noodles with the tuna, frozen peas, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk, ensure that the noodles are evenly coated with the soup mixture. This helps to distribute the flavors uniformly throughout the casserole. Additionally, for a crispier topping, you can lightly toast the breadcrumbs in a pan with a bit of butter before sprinkling them over the casserole.

• cooked egg noodles - Substitute with whole wheat pasta: Adds a nutty flavor and increases fiber content.

• cooked egg noodles - Substitute with gluten-free pasta: Suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

• drained tuna - Substitute with canned chicken: Provides a similar texture and protein content.

• drained tuna - Substitute with canned salmon: Adds a different flavor profile and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

• frozen peas - Substitute with frozen green beans: Offers a similar texture and color while adding a slightly different taste.

• frozen peas - Substitute with frozen corn: Adds a sweet flavor and a pop of color.

• cream of mushroom soup - Substitute with cream of chicken soup: Provides a similar creamy texture with a different flavor.

• cream of mushroom soup - Substitute with homemade white sauce: Allows for control over ingredients and can be flavored as desired.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers a milder flavor and melts well.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded Swiss cheese: Adds a nutty and slightly sweet flavor.

• milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free option.

• milk - Substitute with chicken broth: Adds a savory flavor and can be used to thin the casserole.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Adds a crunchy texture and a slightly sweet flavor.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Provides a lighter, crispier texture.

• Allow the tuna casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the breadcrumbs topping soggy.

• For short-term storage, transfer the casserole to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

• To freeze, first wrap the entire baking dish tightly with plastic wrap, ensuring it is well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. Then, cover with a layer of aluminum foil for extra protection. Alternatively, you can portion the casserole into individual servings and store in freezer-safe containers.

• Label the container with the date and contents. Frozen tuna casserole can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

• When ready to eat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the breadcrumbs topping is crispy.

• For a quicker option, you can reheat directly from frozen. Cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to crisp up.

• If the casserole seems dry upon reheating, add a splash of milk or cream of mushroom soup to restore its creamy texture.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover tuna casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

• For a quicker option, use the microwave. Transfer a portion of the casserole to a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (leaving a small vent), and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you prefer a crispy top, reheat in a skillet. Place a portion of the casserole in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cover with a lid and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the bottom is slightly crispy.

• For an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the tuna casserole in an air fryer-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it’s warming evenly. Remove the foil for the last few minutes if you want a crispy top.

• To reheat on the stovetop, place the casserole in a saucepan or skillet with a splash of milk or cream of mushroom soup to keep it moist. Cover and heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at the specified temperature to ensure it cooks evenly and the top becomes golden brown.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine all the ingredients thoroughly before transferring them to the baking dish.

• Baking dish: A dish to hold the casserole mixture while it bakes in the oven.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the ingredients like milk, breadcrumbs, and shredded cheddar cheese accurately.

• Can opener: Necessary for opening the can of tuna and the can of cream of mushroom soup.

• Wooden spoon: Useful for mixing the ingredients together in the mixing bowl.

• Spatula: Helps in transferring the mixture from the mixing bowl to the baking dish and spreading it evenly.

• Oven mitts: Essential for safely handling the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

• Cooling rack: A place to let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Use pre-cooked noodles: Save time by using pre-cooked egg noodles from the store.

Frozen vegetables: Opt for frozen peas to skip washing and chopping.

One-bowl mixing: Combine all ingredients in one bowl to reduce cleanup time.

Pre-shredded cheese: Use pre-shredded cheddar cheese to avoid grating.

Quick bake: Preheat the oven while you mix ingredients to speed up the baking process.

Breadcrumbs shortcut: Use store-bought breadcrumbs to save time.