If you're on the hunt for a cozy, comforting dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals, look no further than this "Tuna Noodle Casserole Very Slightly Modified." This classic American recipe is a delightful blend of creamy goodness and savory flavors, all wrapped up in a crispy, golden topping. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of love, you can whip up a meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your heart. Ready to dive into the world of easy, delicious comfort food? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 can tuna, drained
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 6-8 minutes. Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, frozen peas, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add the cooked egg noodles to the tuna mixture, gently folding to ensure even distribution. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Transfer the entire mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Top the casserole with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole to create a crispy golden topping.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Noodles: Be sure to cook the egg noodles until they are al dente; this ensures they hold their texture and don’t become mushy when baked.
- Creamy Consistency: For an extra creamy casserole, consider adding a bit more milk or a dollop of sour cream to the mixture before baking.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! A mix of cheddar and mozzarella can add a delightful stretchiness and flavor.
- Add Some Veggies: Want to boost the nutrition? Toss in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms along with the peas for added flavor and color.
- Breadcrumb Topping: For a crunchier topping, mix the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling them over the casserole.
- Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting time after baking! Letting the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes allows it to set, making it easier to serve.
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s flavor profile. With these tips, you’ll master the art of making a Tuna Noodle Casserole that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 75mg
