Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe

Egg noodles: These are the base of the casserole, providing a hearty and filling texture.

Tuna: Canned tuna adds a rich, savory flavor and protein to the dish.

Cream of mushroom soup: This soup creates a creamy and flavorful sauce that binds the ingredients together.

Frozen peas: These add a pop of color and a sweet, fresh taste to the casserole.

Cheddar cheese: Shredded cheddar melts into the casserole, adding a cheesy richness.

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

Crushed potato chips: These provide a crunchy topping that contrasts nicely with the creamy casserole.

When preparing the egg noodles, ensure they are cooked al dente. This means they should be firm to the bite, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooking the noodles initially can result in a mushy texture in the final casserole. To achieve this, cook the noodles for about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest.

• egg noodles - Substitute with whole wheat pasta: Whole wheat pasta provides a similar texture and is a healthier option with more fiber.

• egg noodles - Substitute with gluten-free pasta: For those with gluten intolerance, gluten-free pasta is a suitable alternative.

• tuna - Substitute with canned chicken: Canned chicken offers a similar texture and protein content, making it a good alternative.

• tuna - Substitute with salmon: Canned or cooked salmon can provide a richer flavor and similar nutritional benefits.

• cream of mushroom soup - Substitute with cream of celery soup: Cream of celery soup offers a different but complementary flavor profile.

• cream of mushroom soup - Substitute with homemade white sauce: A homemade white sauce made with butter, flour, and milk can replace the creaminess and thickness.

• frozen peas - Substitute with frozen mixed vegetables: Mixed vegetables add variety and color to the dish.

• frozen peas - Substitute with fresh spinach: Fresh spinach provides a different texture and additional nutrients.

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

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the dish.

• milk - Substitute with heavy cream: Heavy cream makes the dish richer and creamier.

• milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Almond milk is a good dairy-free alternative.

• crushed potato chips - Substitute with bread crumbs: Bread crumbs provide a similar crunchy topping.

• crushed potato chips - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Cornflakes add a unique crunch and slight sweetness.

• Allow the tuna noodle casserole to cool completely after baking. This helps prevent condensation and sogginess when storing.
• Transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
• Store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• For freezing, portion the casserole into individual servings or keep it whole, depending on your preference.
• Wrap each portion or the entire casserole tightly with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the wrapped casserole with the date and contents before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
• To reheat from frozen, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
• For a quicker option, reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Transfer the leftover tuna noodle casserole to an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the noodles from drying out.
  4. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If you like a crispy top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes.
  5. Let it cool for a couple of minutes before serving.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a portion of the casserole in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Add a splash of milk or water to keep it moist.
  3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small corner open to vent.
  4. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
  5. Let it sit for a minute before serving.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place the leftover casserole in a non-stick skillet.
  2. Add a small amount of milk or broth to prevent sticking and to keep it moist.
  3. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
  4. Serve immediately once heated.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the casserole in an air fryer-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from burning.
  4. Heat for 10-15 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn't overcook.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 3-5 minutes if you want a crispy top.
  6. Let it cool for a minute before serving.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole until it is bubbly and golden brown on top.

• Pot: Necessary for boiling the egg noodles according to package instructions.

• Colander: Used to drain the cooked egg noodles after boiling.

• Large mixing bowl: Where you will combine the cooked noodles, tuna, cream of mushroom soup, peas, cheddar cheese, and milk.

• Baking dish: The vessel in which the casserole mixture will be spread evenly and baked.

• Measuring cup: Essential for accurately measuring the milk and other ingredients.

• Can opener: Needed to open the cans of tuna and cream of mushroom soup.

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

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

• Crushing tool: Could be a rolling pin or even your hands, used to crush the potato chips for the topping.

Use pre-cooked noodles: Save time by using pre-cooked egg noodles available in the store. This eliminates the need to boil and drain them.

Opt for canned ingredients: Utilize canned tuna and cream of mushroom soup to cut down on preparation time.

Frozen vegetables: Use frozen peas directly without thawing; they will cook perfectly in the oven.

Pre-shredded cheese: Buy shredded cheddar cheese to avoid the hassle of grating it yourself.

Crushed chips in advance: Crush the potato chips ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for quick assembly.