Cheesy Tuna Linguine & Mushroom Casserole, also known as Tuna Noodle Casserole, is a comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of tuna, mushrooms, and cheese with the comforting texture of linguine pasta, all baked to perfection. This delightful recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or for sharing with friends at potlucks and gatherings.
With a preparation time of just 30 minutes and a total time of 1 hour, this recipe is relatively quick and easy to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of ingredients creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly oil a 13 x 9 baking dish, setting it aside for later use. Then, it’s time to prepare the flavorful sautéed mixture that will infuse the dish with aromatic goodness. In a skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic, onion, and celery until they turn translucent and fragrant. Then, stir in the sliced mushrooms, allowing them to cook until they become tender and release their savory juices, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the casserole. Once done, set the skillet aside to cool slightly.
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine Neufchatel cheese (also known as cream cheese), cream of mushroom soup, and milk, heating the mixture until warm and whisking it until smooth and creamy. This creamy base will serve as the luscious foundation for the casserole, enveloping each ingredient in a blanket of rich and velvety goodness. To this creamy mixture, add the sautéed vegetable mixture from the skillet, along with grated cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until everything is well combined and evenly distributed.
Next, add the cooked linguine pasta and flaked albacore tuna to the bowl, adding them in small increments to ensure that they are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. This step ensures that every bite of the casserole is filled with a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, from the tender pasta to the succulent pieces of tuna, all bathed in creamy cheese sauce.
Once the pasta and tuna are evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture, pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer. To add an irresistible finishing touch, sprinkle the top of the casserole with the remaining grated cheddar cheese, which will melt into gooey perfection during baking, creating a golden crust that adds visual appeal and a delicious cheesy crunch to every bite. For an extra touch of indulgence and texture, top the cheese with crushed potato chips, which will bake to a crispy golden brown, adding a delightful contrast to the creamy casserole beneath.
Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the top is golden brown and crispy. Keep in mind that oven temperatures may vary, so it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the casserole towards the end of the baking time to ensure that it doesn’t overcook.
Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Then, dig in and enjoy the irresistible combination of flavors and textures that make this Cheesy Tuna Linguine & Mushroom Casserole a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or sharing it with friends, this comforting dish is sure to be a hit with everyone gathered around the table.
Each serving of this delectable casserole delivers a satisfying blend of flavors and nutrients, with a generous amount of protein from the tuna, calcium from the cheese, and fiber from the mushrooms and pasta. With its hearty ingredients and creamy sauce, this Cheesy Tuna Linguine & Mushroom Casserole is a wholesome and delicious meal that will warm your heart and nourish your body with every bite.
So, the next time you’re craving a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and impossible to resist, give this Cheesy Tuna Linguine & Mushroom Casserole recipe a try. With its simple preparation and irresistible taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection, bringing joy and satisfaction to all who have the pleasure of indulging in its deliciousness.
