Name: Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 10.75 ounce can condensed cream of mushroom soup; 1/2 cup milk (For extra creaminess, you can add more milk.); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 6 ounce cans tuna, drained and flaked; 3 cups cooked egg noodles (You can use fresh noodles, but monitor baking time.); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Feel free to swap with mozzarella or pepper jack.); 1 cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs can be used for extra texture.); 2 tablespoons melted butter

Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any dinner table. This dish is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and can please even the pickiest of eaters. With creamy tuna, tender noodles, and a crispy topping, it’s a simple meal that feels special.

How to Make Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Ingredients:

1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 (6 ounce) cans tuna, drained and flaked
3 cups cooked egg noodles
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
In a large bowl, mix together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper.
Stir in the drained tuna, cooked egg noodles, and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter.
Sprinkle the buttered crumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Serve the casserole hot, straight from the oven. It goes well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables on the side. You can also garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

How to Store Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through.

Tips to Make Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole

For extra creaminess, add a bit more milk or some sour cream to the mixture.
Mix in chopped vegetables, such as peas or bell peppers, for added nutrition and flavor.
If you like your casserole with a bit more texture, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.

Variation

You can easily customize this casserole by swapping out the tuna for cooked chicken, salmon, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version. Additionally, try different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist.

FAQs

Can I use fresh noodles instead of cooked egg noodles?
Yes, you can use fresh noodles, but they may require a shorter baking time. Make sure to keep an eye on the casserole while it’s baking.

Can I freeze Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Cover it well and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

How long should I bake the casserole?
Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes or until it is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. If you are using a frozen casserole, increase the baking time to about 40-50 minutes.