Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy tuna noodle casserole is the perfect comfort food for busy days, offering a satisfying combination of tender noodles, flaky tuna, and a creamy sauce. With a crunchy breadcrumb topping, it’s a delightful balance of textures that everyone will enjoy. It’s also simple to make, uses everyday ingredients, and is sure to be a family favorite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a tasty weeknight dinner, this casserole has got you covered.

Ingredients

5 cups uncooked egg noodles
1 cup frozen peas
1 can (10-3/4 ounces) reduced-fat reduced-sodium condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
1 cup fat-free sour cream
2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup 2% milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cans (5 ounces each) light tuna in water, drained and flaked
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped green pepper

Topping:

1/2 cup soft bread crumbs
1 tablespoon butter, melted

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Cook the noodles according to the package directions for al dente, adding the frozen peas during the last minute of cooking. Once done, drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the condensed soup, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, milk, and salt. Stir in the tuna, onion, and green pepper.
Add the cooked noodles and peas to the bowl and toss everything together to combine evenly.
Transfer the mixture into an 11×7-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray.
In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole.
Bake, uncovered, for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Omit the tuna and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or extra vegetables like broccoli or zucchini.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small diced jalapeño for some heat.
Cheesy: Mix in extra shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a richer, cheesier casserole.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also cover with foil when reheating in the oven to prevent the top from becoming too brown.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the egg noodles with any pasta you prefer, such as rotini or penne. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente.

2. Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?

You can use fresh tuna, but it will need to be cooked first. Canned tuna is often more convenient and easier to mix into the casserole.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and bake it the next day. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly.

4. Can I use a different type of cream soup?

Yes, if you prefer, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.

5. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.

6. Can I skip the breadcrumb topping?

Yes, if you prefer, you can omit the breadcrumb topping or use a different topping like crushed crackers or cheese.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free as it calls for egg noodles and cream of mushroom soup that may contain gluten. You can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free soup alternative.

8. Can I use non-fat sour cream?

Yes, non-fat sour cream can be used, but keep in mind it may affect the creaminess of the dish. Fat-free sour cream is a good substitute for a lighter version.

9. How can I make this recipe less salty?

To reduce the salt, opt for a lower-sodium soup or use fresh vegetables in place of the canned ones. Additionally, you can omit the added salt entirely.

10. What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This creamy tuna noodle casserole is an easy, flavorful, and hearty dish that everyone will love. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, and with its simple ingredients, you can have a filling meal on the table in no time. With a few variations, you can customize this recipe to suit your tastes. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or as a make-ahead meal, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!