Mike'S Tuna Noodle Casserole
A creamy tuna noodle casserole with sharp cheese and savory mushroom soup, perfect for a comforting family meal or quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the noodles and drain.
- Combine the tuna with 3/4 cup of diced sharp cheese.
- Mix the cooked noodles, tuna mixture, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and paprika.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. If you're out of cream of mushroom soup, a homemade version could easily be made using sautéed mushrooms, butter, and flour. You can also swap out the sharp cheese for cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. This dish is versatile and can be customized according to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Tuna Noodle Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For added crunch, a side of Ranch Crackle would complement the flavors well. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a comforting dinner, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but the oven will help retain the casserole's original texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mike'S Tuna Noodle Casserole contains roughly 675 calories, with 13g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (100% of the Daily Value), iron (68% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 484mg per serving (21% 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 tuna instead of canned tuna?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna, but you'll need to cook it beforehand. Sauté the fresh tuna until fully cooked, then flake it to incorporate into the casserole. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish, making it even more delicious.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
Absolutely! You can use whole wheat noodles for added fiber and a lighter cream of mushroom soup or make your own with low-fat ingredients. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables like peas or spinach can boost the nutritional value without compromising flavor.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
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).