Tuna Casserole Recipe

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

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

Cream of mushroom soup: This soup acts as a creamy binder for the casserole, adding depth and richness.

Frozen peas: These add a pop of color and a touch of sweetness to the casserole.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Cheese adds a melty, gooey texture and a sharp flavor.

Milk: Milk helps to thin out the soup and create a creamy sauce.

Breadcrumbs: These create a crispy, golden topping for the casserole.

To enhance the flavor and texture of your breadcrumbs, try toasting them in a skillet with a bit of butter before sprinkling them on top of the casserole. This will give the breadcrumbs a golden, crispy finish and add a rich, buttery taste to your dish.

• egg noodles - Substitute with whole wheat pasta: Whole wheat pasta provides more fiber and nutrients.

• egg noodles - Substitute with gluten-free pasta: Ideal for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

• tuna - Substitute with canned chicken: Offers a similar texture and protein content.

• tuna - Substitute with salmon: Adds a richer flavor and more omega-3 fatty acids.

• cream of mushroom soup - Substitute with cream of chicken soup: Provides a similar creamy texture with a different flavor profile.

• cream of mushroom soup - Substitute with homemade white sauce: A mix of butter, flour, and milk can create a fresh, preservative-free alternative.

• frozen peas - Substitute with frozen green beans: Offers a similar texture and nutritional value.

• frozen peas - Substitute with frozen corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and color to the dish.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Provides a milder flavor and a gooey texture.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with gruyere cheese: Adds a nutty and slightly sweet flavor.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: A dairy-free option that maintains the creamy texture.

• milk - Substitute with chicken broth: Adds a savory depth of flavor while keeping the dish moist.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Provides a crunchy texture and a slightly sweet flavor.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko: Japanese-style breadcrumbs that offer a lighter, crispier texture.

• Allow the tuna casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the casserole to an airtight container. If you prefer, you can also use heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic wrap to cover the baking dish tightly.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the casserole within 3-4 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and the texture intact.
• For longer storage, place the airtight container in the freezer. The tuna casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months without significant loss of quality.
• When ready to reheat, if the casserole is frozen, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the dish’s texture.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for reheating. If the casserole is in a freezer-safe baking dish, you can place it directly in the oven. Otherwise, transfer it to an oven-safe dish.
• Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to prevent the top from drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
• Alternatively, you can 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, or until hot. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
• If the breadcrumbs topping has lost its crunch during storage, you can add a fresh layer before reheating in the oven. This will restore the delightful texture contrast.
• Enjoy your reheated tuna casserole with a side of fresh vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover tuna casserole in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the breadcrumbs from burning.
  4. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the top to crisp up.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Transfer a portion of the tuna casserole to a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Check if the casserole is heated through; if not, continue heating in 30-second intervals.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of milk or cream of mushroom soup to the skillet to prevent sticking and add moisture.
  3. Add the leftover tuna casserole to the skillet.
  4. Stir occasionally, heating until the casserole is warmed through and the cheese is melted, about 5-7 minutes.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover tuna casserole in an air fryer-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the breadcrumbs from burning.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 3-5 minutes to allow the top to crisp up.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 375°F (190°C).

• Pot: Used to cook the egg noodles according to package instructions.

• Colander: Used to drain the cooked egg noodles.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the cooked noodles, tuna, cream of mushroom soup, peas, cheese, and milk.

• Wooden spoon: Used to mix the ingredients together in the mixing bowl.

• Baking dish: Used to hold the casserole mixture and ensure even baking.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the milk, cheese, and breadcrumbs accurately.

• Can opener: Used to open the can of tuna and the can of cream of mushroom soup.

• Oven mitts: Used to safely handle the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

Use pre-cooked noodles: Save time by using pre-cooked or instant egg noodles that only need a quick warm-up.

Frozen peas: No need to thaw frozen peas; just mix them directly into the casserole.

Pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar cheese to cut down on prep time.

One-bowl mixing: Combine all ingredients in one mixing bowl to minimize cleanup.

Quick breadcrumbs: Use store-bought breadcrumbs instead of making your own.

Microwave milk: Warm the milk in the microwave for a few seconds to help it blend more easily with other ingredients.