Tuna Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

Tuna casserole is a beloved dish that combines simple ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying meal. This easy tuna casserole recipe features tender egg noodles, creamy soup, and flavorful tuna, making it a go-to comfort food for many families. Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide on how to make tuna noodle casserole, along with some recipe variations to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 8 oz wide egg noodles
• 2 cans of tuna (preferably white albacore tuna in water)
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup crushed potato chips
• 1/2 cup panko or bread crumbs
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the noodles: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the tuna mixture: In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chopped onion, frozen peas, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
4. Assemble the casserole: Add the cooked egg noodles to the tuna mixture and stir gently to incorporate. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add topping: Transfer the tuna mixture into a greased casserole dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese, crushed potato chips, and panko or bread crumbs for a crunchy topping.
6. Bake: Cook in the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown.
7. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your classic tuna noodle casserole!

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this tuna casserole recipe to fit your preferences. You can use different canned soups like cream of celery or cream of chicken for a unique flavor. Additionally, consider adding vegetables such as corn or bell peppers for extra nutrition. For a cheesier version, mix in some parmesan cheese or use ritz crackers instead of potato chips for the topping.

Make Ahead and Storage

You can make tuna casserole ahead of time by preparing the tuna mixture and storing it in the fridge overnight. If you want to freeze tuna casserole, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake it directly from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

This easy tuna casserole recipe is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or a comforting meal to share with loved ones. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s no wonder that this dish remains a favorite in many households. Make this tuna casserole today and enjoy a classic taste of home!