Description
Step back in time with this classic recipe for Old Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole. A dish that’s both comforting and nostalgic, it brings together tender egg noodles, flavorful albacore tuna, and a creamy mushroom sauce, all topped with crunchy potato chips. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this casserole is a timeless favorite that’s sure to warm hearts and bellies alike.
Ingredients
To create this savory masterpiece, gather the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces egg noodles (adjust quantity based on preference)
- 12 ounces albacore tuna, drained
- 21 ounces cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery)
- 1 cup evaporated milk (any type of milk, including non-dairy, can be used)
- 1 ½ cups Cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup potato chips, crushed
- Optional additions:
- ½ cup peas
- ¼ cup onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup celery, finely diced
- 4 ounces pimento
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bring this delightful casserole to life:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
- Prepare the Casserole Dish: Grease a 2-quart casserole dish with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Egg Noodles: In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the egg noodles until just done. Drain them well and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked egg noodles, drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, ½ cup of grated Cheddar cheese, and evaporated milk. If desired, add optional ingredients like peas, onion, celery, or pimento for extra flavor and texture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining grated Cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, then generously cover it with crushed potato chips for a crispy finish.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the mixture is hot and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, let the casserole stand for about 5 minutes before serving warm. Slice into portions and indulge in the comforting flavors of this classic dish.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Servings: 6 servings
Notes
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the casserole hot and fresh from the oven for maximum enjoyment.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.
- Pair with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to complete the meal.
- Storage Guidelines:
- Allow any leftover casserole to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftover portions to an airtight container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate the casserole within 2 hours of cooking to maintain its freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
- Stored properly in the refrigerator, leftover casserole can last for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat refrigerated casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave on medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until warmed to your liking.
- Freezing Option:
- Old Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole can be frozen for future meals.
- Portion the cooled casserole into individual servings and wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating according to the instructions above.
- Variation Ideas:
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Swiss or Gruyère, for a unique flavor twist.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or Dijon mustard to the creamy sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
- Incorporate additional vegetables like sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or chopped broccoli for added nutrition and color.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Old Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole stays fresh and delicious, whether you’re enjoying it straight from the oven or reheating leftovers for a quick and satisfying meal.
