Description
This Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dinner that combines tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, creamy mushroom sauce, peas, and a crispy golden breadcrumb topping. It’s an easy pantry-friendly meal that comes together quickly and bakes until bubbly and delicious, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or cozy comfort food.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) egg noodles
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook the noodles: Boil the egg noodles according to package instructions until just al dente, then drain thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Prepare the sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine main ingredients: Stir in the drained tuna, frozen peas, diced onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and dried parsley into the sauce mixture.
- Add noodles: Gently fold the cooked noodles into the mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sauce and ingredients are well distributed.
- Transfer to baking dish: Pour and spread the entire mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish for even baking.
- Make the topping: In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs or crushed crackers with melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese to create a flavorful, crunchy topping.
- Top the casserole: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole surface to allow it to crisp up beautifully during baking.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
- Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to set, making it easier to serve and enhancing flavors.
Notes
- Use canned chicken instead of tuna if preferred for a different flavor.
- Add chopped mushrooms, broccoli, or carrots to boost the vegetable content.
- Opt for sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced cheddar taste.
- For an extra crunchy topping, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed potato chips.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
