Easy Tuna Casserole

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Warm, creamy, and packed with comforting flavors, Easy Tuna Casserole is a classic dish that brings nostalgia with every bite. This simple yet satisfying meal combines tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, and a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with a crispy golden breadcrumb topping. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a hearty and budget-friendly dish that the whole family will love.

What makes this tuna casserole truly special is its combination of textures and flavors. The velvety sauce pairs beautifully with the soft pasta, while the crunchy topping adds just the right amount of contrast. With a hint of vegetables like peas and celery for freshness, every bite is both comforting and delicious. Whether you’re making it ahead or enjoying it straight from the oven, this dish never disappoints.

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Ingredients for Easy Tuna Casserole

• 12 oz egg noodles
• 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup celery, diced
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt

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Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

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Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.

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Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, add the drained tuna, cooked noodles, frozen peas, and diced celery. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and stir gently until everything is evenly coated.

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Step 4: Add Cheese and Topping

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle over the casserole to create a crispy topping.

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Step 5: Bake and Serve

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

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Storage Instructions

To store leftover tuna casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When reheating, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes if frozen, or microwave individual portions until heated through.

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Estimated Nutrition

The following is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on six servings):

• Calories: 400-450
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 700mg

Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute with rotini, penne, or macaroni. Just be sure to cook until al dente.

2. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen peas?

Absolutely! Chopped fresh carrots, green beans, or mushrooms work well. Sauté them slightly before adding to the casserole for the best texture.

3. How do I make this casserole even creamier?

For extra creaminess, stir in ½ cup of sour cream or cream cheese into the sauce before mixing everything together.

4. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

5. What’s a good substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

If you prefer homemade, make a quick sauce with butter, flour, milk, and sautéed mushrooms. Cream of chicken soup also works as an alternative.

6. How do I make a gluten-free version?

Use gluten-free pasta and substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs. Also, ensure that the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free or make a homemade version.

7. Can I add more protein?

Yes! Try adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or extra tuna for a protein boost.

8. How do I get the topping extra crispy?

Broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye on it to avoid burning.

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