Karin'S Tuna Noodle Casserole
A creamy tuna noodle casserole with peas and a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for comforting family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Mix cooked noodles, tuna, cream of mushroom soup, and English peas in a bowl.
- Add mayonnaise and milk to the mixture to keep it moist.
- Season with salt, pepper, and lemon pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Top with bread crumbs.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using flavored mayonnaise or adding diced onions and bell peppers to the mixture. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. Gluten-free noodles can also be used as a great substitution. To enhance the dish's creaminess, mix in a bit of shredded cheese before baking. This casserole is reminiscent of classic American recipes, making it a comforting choice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Tuna Noodle Casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. It pairs beautifully with Clam Crisps for a delightful crunch. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside garlic bread. This dish is versatile enough to be a comforting weeknight dinner or a delightful potluck contribution.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Karin'S Tuna Noodle Casserole contains roughly 877 calories, with 22g protein, 182g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value) and iron (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 807mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh noodles instead of cooked noodles?
Yes, you can use fresh noodles, but you will need to cook them according to the package instructions before mixing them with the other ingredients. Fresh noodles may require a shorter baking time, so keep an eye on the casserole as it cooks to avoid overbaking.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with a homemade cream sauce or another cream soup, like cream of chicken. Alternatively, a mix of sour cream and broth can also work well to keep the casserole moist and flavorful.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking point, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).