Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

Ingredients:

• 8 oz egg noodles
• 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, frozen peas, and cheddar cheese. Mix well.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the bowl and gently fold until everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs and melted butter until the crumbs are coated. Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
8. Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
9. Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

FAQs:

• What ingredients are needed for Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole?
  • Key ingredients typically include egg noodles, canned tuna (drained), cream of mushroom soup, milk, frozen peas, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, butter, onion, celery, salt, pepper, and optionally, a touch of garlic powder or other seasonings.
• How do I prepare the tuna noodle casserole?
  • Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions and drain. In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, canned tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, frozen peas, and shredded cheddar cheese. Sauté chopped onion and celery in butter until softened, then add to the mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter.
• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
  • Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Prepare the casserole up to the point of adding the breadcrumb topping. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the breadcrumb topping and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if necessary.
• What variations can I make to the classic recipe?
  • You can customize the casserole by using different types of canned soup, such as cream of chicken or celery. Add-ins like sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or chopped fresh parsley can enhance the flavor. For a crunchy topping, try using crushed potato chips or French fried onions instead of breadcrumbs.
• How do I store and reheat leftovers?
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave, but the oven will help retain the casserole’s texture.