There’s something about a warm, creamy casserole that just says comfort, and this Tuna Noodle Casserole is no exception. With tender tuna, cheesy noodles, and a perfectly crunchy topping, it’s a dish that everyone in the family will love. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this casserole is a great go-to for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 12 oz elbow noodles: Cooked al dente to ensure they hold up well during baking.
- 10 oz canned tuna in water, drained: Adds protein and flavor to the dish.
- 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup: Provides a rich, creamy base.
- 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup: Adds depth of flavor and creaminess.
- 1 cup milk: Helps create a smooth and creamy sauce.
- 16 oz Velveeta cheese, shredded or cubed: Melts into the sauce, making it extra cheesy.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
For the Topping:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Creates a gooey, golden topping.
- 3 tbsp breadcrumbs: Adds a satisfying crunch to the casserole.
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the casserole to bake evenly and ensures the topping gets golden and crispy.
2. Prepare the Noodles:
- Boil the elbow noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente. This ensures they stay firm during baking. Drain the noodles, rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process, and set them aside.
3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, milk, Velveeta cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. Fold in the cooked noodles, ensuring they are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
4. Bake the Casserole:
- Pour the noodle mixture into a large casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through.
5. Add the Topping:
- After 50 minutes, uncover the casserole and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Then, evenly distribute the breadcrumbs over the cheese. Turn the oven to a low broil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the topping is golden brown. Keep a close eye on it during this step to prevent burning.
6. Serve:
- Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, comforting goodness with your loved ones.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Calories: Approx. 450 kcal per serving
Tips for the Best Tuna Noodle Casserole
- Watch the Topping: When broiling, keep a close eye on the topping to ensure it doesn’t burn. Broiling can brown the top quickly, so adjust the time as needed based on your oven.
- Add Veggies: For added flavor and nutrition, mix in some cooked peas or chopped celery with the casserole ingredients before baking.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to customize the casserole by adding your favorite spices or using a different type of cheese for the topping.
Conclusion
This Best Ever Tuna Noodle Casserole is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy, making it a true comfort food classic. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a simple and satisfying dinner, this casserole is sure to please. With its easy preparation and delicious results, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.