Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe (Can Freeze Ahead!) Effortless and Delicious

A simple and quick dish combining tuna, noodles, and creamy sauce is perfect for freezing ahead for convenient meals. Enjoy a simple casserole made with tuna, noodles, sauce, and topping that is perfect for meal prep with minimal effort.

This homemade casserole is the perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners. Is your family always asking for something quick and comforting to eat? Look no further than this Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe. It comes together in just 30 minutes with pantry staples like noodles, canned tuna, and creamy sauce. Best of all, you can make it ahead of time on Sundays to grab and heat up after a long work week. 

This easy tuna noodle casserole is cheesy and comforting, making it a perfect meal for a cozy family dinner. It’s a dish that not only warms the soul but also offers convenience, especially when considering its ability to be made ahead and frozen. If you’re looking to switch things up and add some variety to your mealtime, consider incorporating Leftover Hamburger Patties. The casserole starts with egg noodles mixed with canned tuna, peas, and condensed cream of mushroom soup. Top it with crunchy fried onions, then bake until hot and bubbly. A classic dish the whole family will enjoy.

In this article, we’ll discuss more interesting things about it, so stay tuned with us!

Why Tuna Noodle Casserole?

Tuna Noodle Casserole, a staple in American households, resonates as the epitome of comfort food. Its popularity lies not only in its simplicity but also in its versatility. Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a cozy evening at home, this dish effortlessly adapts to various occasions.

Tuna noodle casserole is a crowd-pleasing family favorite because it’s simple to make. All you need are a few pantry staples, like canned tuna, soup, and noodles. It bakes up into a creamy, carb comfort food perfect for busy weeknights. One more interesting thing is that no one can resist the crunchy, fried onion topping.

Versatility at Its Finest

One notable aspect of tuna noodle casserole is its adaptability to personal preferences. If tuna isn’t your preferred protein, fear not! The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. 

Feel free to substitute tuna with chicken or opt for a vegetarian twist, making it suitable for all taste buds and dietary preferences.

Adaptability to Personal Preferences

Substituting tuna for chicken or making it vegetarian. When making your meal, feel free to switch things up to match your taste. Swap tuna for chicken or go completely vegetarian—it’s all about what you enjoy. 

Customize your dish to suit your personal preferences and savor a meal that suits you best. Flexibility in cooking allows you to create a dish that truly caters to your individual taste buds.

Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the heart of the matter – the Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole recipe. Follow these straightforward steps for a dish that not only delights the taste buds but also freezes and reheats well.

Ingredients

• 2 cans of tuna (or chicken, for a twist)
• 8 oz egg noodles
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup crushed potato chips (for topping)

Steps to follow

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions.
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, tuna, peas, mushrooms, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper.
• Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
• Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crushed potato chips for an irresistible crunch.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
• Let it cool slightly before serving.

Equipment and important Notes for making Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe

Here’s a table outlining the equipment you’ll need and important notes for making an Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole:

Equipment	Notes
Large pot	For boiling the noodles.
Baking dish	To bake a casserole in the oven.
Mixing bowls	For combining ingredients.
Wooden spoon or spatula	To mix and stir the ingredients.
Can opener	If you’re using canned tuna, you’ll need to open the cans.
Colander	To drain the cooked noodles.
Measuring cups and spoons	For accurate measurement of ingredients.
Oven	For baking the casserole.
Cooking spray or butter	To grease the baking dish and prevent sticking.

Important Notes

Preheat the Oven: Ensure the oven is preheated to the specified temperature before baking the casserole.

Cook Noodles Al Dente: Boil the noodles until they are al dente, as they will continue cooking in the oven.

Drain Tuna Well: If using canned tuna, drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

Add Vegetables: Customize the recipe by adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

Choose a Creamy Base: Use a combination of mayonnaise, cream of mushroom soup, or sour cream for a creamy and flavorful casserole.

Top with Cheese: For a cheesy topping, sprinkle shredded cheese on the casserole during the last few minutes of baking.

Crunchy Topping: Consider adding a crunchy topping like breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for added texture.

Bake Until Golden: Bake the casserole until it’s golden brown on top and bubbly around the edges for the perfect finish.

Remember to follow your specific Tuna Noodle Casserole recipe for detailed instructions.

Can I Freeze Tuna Noodle Casserole?

Yes, sure, you can freeze tuna noodle casserole. Prepare it as usual, but before baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Label the date and freeze for up to three months. 

When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake according to the original recipe. Freezing Tuna Noodle Casserole opens up a world of possibilities for meal prep, camping menus, and ensuring you always have a comforting dish on hand.

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole recipe without Soup

Here’s a simple and human-written easy tuna noodle casserole recipe without using soup:

• Cook a cup of noodles until they’re al dente.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a bowl, mix a can of tuna with a cup of frozen peas.
• Drain the noodles and add them to the tuna and peas.
• Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
• Season with salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of garlic powder.
• Grease a baking dish and transfer the mixture into it.
• Top with another cup of cheddar cheese.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes or until it’s golden and bubbly.
• Let it cool for a bit before serving. Enjoy your easy homemade tuna noodle casserole!

The Great Way vs. The Good Way

When it comes to freezing, there are two primary methods:

• The Great Way: Optimal for preserving flavor and texture, this method involves careful packaging, removing as much air as possible, and labeling with reheating instructions.
• The Good Way: While not as foolproof as The Great Way, it’s still effective. Ensure proper packaging and labeling for a seamless reheating experience.

Substitutions and Variations

Don’t Like Tuna? No Problem!

If tuna isn’t your go-to protein, don’t let that deter you. This recipe is highly adaptable. Consider substituting tuna for chicken for a heartier flavor profile. The result? A chicken noodle casserole that’s just as delightful.

Make It Vegetarian

For our vegetarian friends, fear not! You can still savor the comforting goodness. Simply exclude the meat and amp up the veggies. Think mushrooms, peas, and bell peppers for an explosion of flavors and textures.

Serve It as a Side Dish

Tuna Noodle Casserole isn’t confined to the main course. Elevate your meal by serving it as a side dish. Its creamy goodness complements a variety of main dishes, making it a versatile addition to any dining experience.

Betty Crocker 1950s tuna Noodle casserole Recipes

In the 1950s, Betty Crocker shared tasty recipes, like the classic Tuna Noodle Casserole. Her recipe was simple and comforting, making it a favorite for many families.

Simple Ingredients 

• 1 can (10 3/4 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup frozen green peas
• 1 can (6.5 ounces) tuna, drained
• 2 cups cooked egg noodles
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions to Follow

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a bowl, mix together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
• Add frozen peas, drained tuna, and cooked egg noodles to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
• Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
• Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
• In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter.
• Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
• Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Enjoy the nostalgic taste of this 1950s classic Tuna Noodle Casserole!

The Best Way to Freeze Tuna Casserole

Preserving the integrity of your Tuna Noodle Casserole during the freezing process is crucial. Follow these steps for the best results.

The Essentials

• Use airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label containers with the date of preparation and reheating instructions.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Consider freezing individual portions for easy serving.

Maintaining Flavor and Texture

While freezing, focus on preserving the creamy texture and savory goodness. The key is proper packaging, ensuring your casserole emerges from the freezer as delicious as the day you made it.

Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?

If you’re out of cream or mushroom soup, don’t worry! You can make a simple alternative at home. Sauté mushrooms in butter, add flour to make a roux, and then slowly whisk in milk until smooth. 

Season it, and you’ve got a tasty homemade substitute for your recipe. No need to stress; just enjoy your cooking!

Explore Alternatives

A common ingredient in Tuna Noodle Casserole is cream of mushroom soup. However, if you find your pantry lacking this essential component, fear not! Consider these alternatives:

• Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds a savory twist.
• Cream of Celery Soup: Brings a subtle, herbal flavor.
• Homemade White Sauce: For those who prefer a DIY approach.

Additional Casserole Recipes

Explore more culinary adventures with these tantalizing casserole recipes:

Chorizo Casserole Recipe (Omnia Oven)

• A flavorful twist for those seeking a spicy kick. If you love flavorful meals, try the Chorizo Casserole Recipe in your Omnia Oven. Start by browning chorizo in a pan. 
• Mix it with diced potatoes, onions, and eggs. Pop it into your Omnia Oven, and soon you’ll enjoy a delicious casserole that’s easy to make and full of rich taste!

Best Leftover Mac and Cheese Casserole

• Got leftover mac and cheese? Transform it into the best casserole! Preheat your oven. Mix in the extra cheese and breadcrumbs. 
• Bake until it’s golden and bubbly. Enjoy a tasty twist on your leftovers!  Transform leftovers into a decadent delight.

FAQ’s

What is a tuna noodle casserole made of?

Tuna noodle casserole typically includes noodles, canned tuna, cream of mushroom soup, and milk.

Do you cook the noodles before adding them to the casserole?

Yes, cook the noodles before adding them to the casserole to ensure they are properly cooked during baking.

How do you keep the tuna casserole from drying out?

Cover the tuna casserole with foil while baking to prevent it from drying out.

Do you heat up the tuna casserole?

Yes, heat up the tuna casserole in the oven or microwave until it’s warm throughout.

How do you make a moist casserole?

Add enough liquid, like broth or sauce, to keep the casserole moist while baking.

Conclusion

In the realm of culinary classics, Tuna Noodle Casserole emerges as a timeless favorite, celebrated for its straightforward preparation, adaptability, and comforting allure. Its enduring popularity transcends generations, making it a cherished dish for various occasions.

The easy-to-follow recipe, whether traditional or soup-free, caters to diverse tastes and preferences, showcasing the dish’s remarkable versatility. The inclusion of a 1950s Betty Crocker recipe adds a nostalgic touch, highlighting its enduring appeal over the years. 

The guide on freezing methods, substitutions, and variations further enhances its practicality in modern kitchens, allowing for a seamless integration into contemporary meal planning. As a testament to its enduring charm, Tuna Noodle Casserole continues to be a go-to choice, promising not only a satisfying meal but a culinary journey that spans decades, making it a comforting and beloved staple in American households.