Crunchy Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe
Description
Dive into the comforting world of classic casseroles with this Crunchy Tuna Noodle Casserole. This delightful dish, passed down by my sister-in-law Linda, is a blend of creamy and crunchy textures, making it a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe offers both simplicity and versatility. It can be easily adapted to be low-fat by choosing water-packed tuna, light cream cheese, and Campbell’s low-fat soup. Below, I provide the traditional instructions as well as my family’s tweaks and preferences.
Ingredients
- Macaroni: 2 cups
- Cream cheese: 8 ounces
- Tuna in vegetable oil: 2 cans
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Celery: 2-3 stalks, chopped
- Milk: 1 cup
- Butter: 1/2 cup
- Bread crumbs: 1 cup (for topping)
- Optional spices/herbs: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, parsley
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 498.4 per serving
- Fat: 25.1g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60.1mg
- Sodium: 788mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2.5g
- Sugar: 4.6g
- Protein: 22.5g
Preparation
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
40 minutes
Total Time
55 minutes
Instructions
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Cook the Macaroni:
- Begin by cooking the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until it is al dente, which usually takes about 7-9 minutes.
- Drain the macaroni thoroughly and set aside.
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Saute the Vegetables (optional but recommended):
- In a medium skillet, melt a portion of the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and celery. Saute until they are soft and translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and ensures the vegetables aren’t crunchy in the final dish.
- Optionally, season with a pinch of salt and pepper while sauteing.
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Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, softened cream cheese, drained tuna (reserve the tuna water), and the sauteed vegetables.
- Gradually add the milk while stirring until the mixture achieves a creamy consistency. Adjust the milk quantity based on your preferred texture.
- If using, add spices like garlic powder, paprika, or parsley at this stage for additional flavor.
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Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, melt the remaining butter.
- Mix the melted butter with the bread crumbs until they are evenly coated. This mixture will form the crunchy topping.
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Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture over the top of the casserole to form a crunchy layer.
-
Bake the Casserole:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes.
- The casserole is ready when it is heated through, bubbly around the edges, and the top is golden brown.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy this comforting meal with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables.
Family Preferences and Variations
-
Vegetable Saute:
- We prefer to always saute the onions and celery before adding them to the casserole, as this makes them tender and adds a depth of flavor that raw vegetables don’t provide.
-
Pasta Choices:
- While the original recipe calls for macaroni, our family often uses egg noodles or a mix of different pastas we have on hand. This can alter the texture slightly and keeps the dish interesting.
-
Soup Substitutions:
- If you prefer not to use the traditional cream of mushroom soup, alternatives such as cream of chicken or cream of celery soup work well.
- For a soup-free version, substitute with sour cream or more cream cheese and incorporate the tuna water to maintain flavor.
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Tuna and Milk Adjustments:
- Using tuna packed in water instead of oil can make the dish lighter. Incorporate the tuna water into the mixture to infuse the casserole with more tuna flavor.
- If the casserole seems too dry, adding a bit more milk can help achieve the desired consistency.
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Additional Tuna:
- We love tuna, so doubling the amount of tuna or even adding more is a common tweak in our household. This makes the casserole more protein-rich and tuna-flavored.
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Topping Variations:
- If you prefer a less crunchy top, you can omit the bread crumbs or replace them with a cheese topping for a different texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions
- Accompaniments: This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, or some steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli.
- Garnishes: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and added flavor.
Additional Tips
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Make-Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day ahead and kept in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
- Freezing: To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and ensure that any canned soups or other ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free.
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use sour cream or a combination of heavy cream and shredded cheese for a similar creamy texture.
Is there a way to make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, to make this dairy-free, use dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based milk, and vegan butter or margarine. Ensure any other ingredients like bread crumbs are also dairy-free.
Can I add other vegetables or proteins?
Feel free to get creative by adding other vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers. You can also include different proteins like cooked chicken or ham if you wish to vary the recipe.
Conclusion
This Crunchy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a beloved family recipe that can be tailored to suit a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Its versatility, coupled with the comforting flavors of creamy tuna and crunchy topping, makes it a go-to meal for both weeknight dinners and family gatherings. Whether you stick to the traditional preparation or try some of our suggested variations, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the process of making this dish your own, and relish in the hearty, satisfying meal it provides.
