Description
Creamy Tuna Noodle Bake is a classic comfort food casserole featuring tender egg noodles mixed with flaky tuna, creamy mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for cozy dinners, combining rich and cheesy flavors with optional vegetables for added texture and nutrition.
Ingredients
Scale
Tuna and Pasta
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water or oil, drained and flaked
- 8 oz egg noodles (or any pasta you prefer)
Sauce and Mix-ins
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken if preferred)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or sour cream for a tangy twist)
- 1/2 cup milk (adjust for creaminess)
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole or similar baking dish to prepare for baking.
- Cook the Noodles: Boil the egg noodles according to the package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, and milk until smooth. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder thoroughly to combine flavors.
- Assemble the Casserole: Fold the drained and flaked tuna and frozen peas (if using) into the sauce mixture. Add the cooked noodles and gently stir until everything is evenly coated and mixed.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the tuna noodle mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it out in an even layer.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole, then add extra shredded cheddar cheese on top for a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the dish is hot, bubbly, and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Let the baked casserole cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired, then serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to increase the vegetable content and flavor complexity.
- Try swapping cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend to customize taste and texture.
- For a spicier version, add hot sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños.
- Make the dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and cream soup.
- You can substitute sour cream for mayonnaise to add a tangier flavor profile.
