Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe
Overview:
Tuna Noodle Casserole is a timeless classic that brings together the comforting flavors of tuna, creamy sauce, and tender noodles, topped with a crispy layer of tater tots and french fried onions. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings, and it’s guaranteed to satisfy both kids and adults alike with its delicious combination of ingredients.
Recipe Information:
- Name: Tuna Noodle Casserole
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 470.3 per serving
- Rating: 3.5 stars
- Keywords: Tuna, Cheese, Vegetable, Kid Friendly, < 60 Mins, Oven
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Shell Pasta |
| 1 | Elbow Macaroni |
| 1 | Can of Tuna in Water |
| 0.5 | Cup Water |
| 0.5 | Cup Milk |
| 1 | Can of Corn |
| 1/4 | Cup Peas |
| 1/4 | Cup Cheddar Cheese |
| 1 | Tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce |
| 1 | Pinch of Salt |
| 1 | Pinch of Fresh Ground Pepper |
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your casserole to perfection.
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Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil, then add both the shell pasta and elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
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Prepare Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, water, and tuna. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to bubble, then reduce the heat to low.
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Season: To the saucepan, add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, corn, peas, and cheddar cheese. Stir well to combine, allowing the cheese to melt into the creamy sauce, creating a rich and flavorful base for your casserole.
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Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly spray a glass or ceramic baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once the pasta is cooked and drained, mix it together with the creamy sauce until the pasta is evenly coated, ensuring every bite is packed with delicious flavor.
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Assemble Casserole: Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to create a smooth layer.
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Add Toppings: Now, it’s time to add the finishing touches! Sprinkle a generous layer of tater tots and french fried onions over the top of the pasta mixture, creating a crispy and golden topping that adds texture and crunch to every bite.
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Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together and the toppings to become irresistibly crispy.
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Uncover and Finish: After 20 minutes, remove the foil from the baking dish and continue baking for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
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Let Stand: Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for about 10 minutes to cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to further develop and ensures the casserole is the perfect temperature for enjoying.
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Serve: Finally, dish up generous portions of this comforting Tuna Noodle Casserole onto plates, garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy the deliciousness!
Serving Suggestions:
- Tuna Noodle Casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole.
- For added indulgence, serve alongside warm garlic breadsticks or dinner rolls to mop up every last bit of the savory sauce.
- This casserole is also delicious served with steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables for a nutritious and balanced meal.
Tips for Success:
- Be sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven while baking.
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese for a unique twist on the classic dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Don’t skip the step of letting the casserole stand before serving, as this allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the perfect texture for each bite.
Conclusion:
With its creamy sauce, tender pasta, and crispy topping, this Tuna Noodle Casserole is sure to become a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or bringing it to a potluck gathering, this comforting dish is guaranteed to please even the pickiest of eaters. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of nostalgia with this delicious and satisfying casserole recipe! 🍽️
