Growing up, Tuna Noodle Casserole was a staple in our household. My mom would make it at least once a month, and it was always my favorite. The creamy, cheesy sauce, the tender noodles, and the briny tuna – it was pure comfort food perfection. As I got older and started exploring more adventurous flavors, I kind of forgot about good old Tuna Noodle Casserole. That is, until a few years ago when I rediscovered it and decided to give it a modern twist. And let me tell you, this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe is about to become your new go-to.
Why This Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
What sets this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe apart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Instead of the heavy, gloppy casseroles of the past, this version is light and flavorful, with a silky smooth sauce that coats every noodle. The key is using just the right amount of cream of mushroom soup and milk to create a creamy base, without it being overpowering. And the addition of frozen peas and a crunchy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful contrast of textures.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about the star ingredients in this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe:
- 8 ounces egg noodles – The perfect pasta for this dish, as the tender noodles soak up all the delicious sauce.
- 2 (5-ounce) cans tuna, drained – Flaky, protein-packed tuna is the backbone of this casserole.
- 1 (10.75-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup – This creamy, savory soup creates the rich sauce that ties everything together.
- 1 cup milk – Balances out the soup to achieve the perfect consistency.
- 1/2 cup frozen peas – Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs – The crunchy topping takes this casserole to the next level.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, umami-packed punch.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley – Brightens up the flavors with its earthy, herbal notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder – Just a touch of garlic enhances the overall savory profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Simple seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
Step-by-Step Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) Instructions
Preparing Your Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
Prep time for this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe is just 15 minutes, and cook time is 25 minutes, for a total of 40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need a large pot, a mixing bowl, and a baking dish to bring this dish together.
1- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
2- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, frozen peas, Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well incorporated.
3- Add the cooked egg noodles to the tuna mixture and gently fold to coat the noodles evenly. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4- Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole. The mixture should be slightly thickened and the noodles should be well-coated in the creamy sauce.
5- Bake the Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) for 20-25 minutes, until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
6- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out portions and enjoy this comforting, modern take on a classic dish.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use high-quality canned tuna for the best flavor. Look for tuna packed in olive oil or water for maximum freshness.
- Don’t overcook the egg noodles – they should be al dente so they don’t get mushy in the casserole.
- Adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired sauce consistency. If it’s too thick, add a bit more milk; if it’s too thin, let it bake a little longer.
- For an extra creamy texture, try stirring in a couple tablespoons of cream cheese along with the other ingredients.
- Top the casserole with a crispy fried onion topping or crushed potato chips for an even crunchier finish.
Serving and Storing Your Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
Perfect Pairings for Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
This Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe serves 6 people, making it a great weeknight meal or casual weekend dinner. For the perfect pairing, serve it alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing. Crusty garlic bread or rolls are also a great accompaniment to soak up all that creamy sauce. As for beverages, a crisp white wine or a refreshing lemonade would both complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) is a fantastic make-ahead dish. Once assembled, you can cover and refrigerate the casserole for up to 3 days before baking. When ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
For longer-term storage, this casserole also freezes really well. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as usual. Leftover portions can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for 2-3 months.
To reheat, simply place a portion in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
Creative Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) Variations
While this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe is pretty perfect as is, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it:
- Switch up the protein and use canned chicken or salmon instead of tuna.
- Add some chopped bell peppers or onions for extra veggie goodness.
- Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of chicken.
- Sprinkle crushed potato chips or French fried onions on top for extra crunch.
- Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese for a cheesier version.
Making Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) Diet-Friendly
For gluten-free Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern), simply substitute the egg noodles with your favorite gluten-free pasta. You can also swap the breadcrumbs for crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
To make a vegan or dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and a vegan cream of mushroom soup. You can also omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
For a low-carb spin, replace the egg noodles with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta besides egg noodles?
A: Absolutely! While egg noodles are the traditional choice, you can use any short pasta shape you like, such as penne, macaroni, or even fusilli.
Q: How long does it take to prepare and bake this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)?
A: This recipe has a total time of 40 minutes – 15 minutes for prep and 25 minutes for baking.
Q: Can I make this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) ahead of time?
A: Yes, this casserole is perfect for making in advance. You can assemble it up to 3 days ahead of time, then bake it when ready to serve.
Q: How many servings does this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe make?
A: This recipe yields 6 servings, making it a great option for a family meal or easy leftovers.
Q: What should I do if the casserole seems too dry or too wet?
A: If the casserole appears too dry, simply stir in a bit more milk. If it’s too wet, let it bake a little longer to allow the sauce to thicken up.
Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) – a comfort food classic that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This easy-to-make recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a delicious and hassle-free dinner option.
Ingredients
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– 2 (5-ounce) cans tuna, drained
– 1 (10.75-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup frozen peas
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, frozen peas, and the cooked egg noodles. Stir until everything is well mixed.
4. Transfer the tuna noodle mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, and garlic powder. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding in additional vegetables, such as diced celery or onions. You can also use a different type of cream soup, like cream of chicken or cream of celery, for a slightly different flavor. For a crunchy topping, you can use crushed crackers or potato chips instead of breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Pasta & Noodles
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe is the ultimate comfort food reinvented. With its creamy, flavorful sauce, tender noodles, and crunchy topping, it’s sure to become a new family favorite. The best part? It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights. So why not give this modern twist on a classic a try? I promise it will have you falling in love with Tuna Noodle Casserole all over again. Let me know how it turns out for you in the comments below!
