Extra Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, bringing warmth and nostalgia to any mealtime. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this dish reminds us of family gatherings and cozy nights in. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s packed with protein and can easily satisfy the entire family. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish that’s sure to become a household favorite!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 385
- Protein: 22 grams
- Carbohydrates: 42 grams
- Fat: 15 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 600 mg
Why Make This Extra Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole
This Extra Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole highlights the beauty of simplicity—ready in less than an hour and requires minimal ingredients that you likely already have at home. The rich, creamy layers are combined with tender noodles and chunks of savory tuna, making each bite a delightful experience. The addition of crunchy breadcrumbs yields the perfect texture contrast, while the cheesy topping offers a golden finish that looks as good as it tastes. It’s a complete meal in one dish, making cleanup a breeze and ensuring no one leaves the table hungry!
How to Make Extra Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Ingredients:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 can tuna, drained
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
-
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain them well and set aside.
-
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir until everything is well mixed.
-
Step 3: Cooking
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top it with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
-
Step 4: Finishing
Once baked, let cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set up just a bit and makes serving easier.
How to Serve Extra Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Serve your Extra Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole warm, right out of the oven. It pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also garnish it with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This casserole is excellent for family dinners, potlucks, or even as a comforting dish for a friend who may need a little extra love.
How to Store Extra Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for quick access. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer, where it will keep for up to 2 months.
Expert Tips for Perfect Extra Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole
- For extra creaminess, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt into the mixture.
- You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or any other cream soup that you prefer.
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed onions or garlic, or even some diced bell peppers.
- If you want a crispy topping, you can mix some melted butter into your breadcrumbs before sprinkling them on top.
Delicious Variations
- Veggie-Loaded: Add additional vegetables like chopped broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers for an extra boost of nutrients.
- Spicy Twist: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a flavorful kick.
- Cheesy Different: Substitute cheddar cheese with a blend of mozzarella and pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use fresh pasta instead of egg noodles?
Yes, you can use fresh pasta! Just be sure to reduce the cooking time according to the package directions. -
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold. -
What if I don’t have tuna?
You can easily substitute the tuna with cooked chicken, salmon, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. -
Can I use low-fat ingredients?
Yes, feel free to use low-fat cheese, milk, or a light version of soup to make this recipe lighter without sacrificing flavor. -
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply swap out the egg noodles for a gluten-free pasta alternative and make sure your cream soup is gluten-free as well.
Conclusion
Extra Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a succulent dish that not only provides comfort but also brings families together around the dinner table. With its simplicity and wholesome ingredients, this casserole is sure to win over hearts and appetites alike. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or feeding a crowd, this recipe is a winner. So why not give it a try? You may just find it becoming your new favorite go-to meal! Enjoy the delightful flavors and share some love through food!
Print
Extra Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
The ultimate comfort food with creamy texture and cheesy goodness, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 can tuna, drained
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper, and stir until well mixed.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra creaminess, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup and experiment with different cheeses.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
