New Tuna Noodle Casserole
Creamy tuna noodle casserole combines tender pasta, savory tuna, green onions, red bell pepper, and melted cheddar for a comforting, family-friendly meal with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Bring 4 quarts of water to a boil in a stockpot. Partially cook the noodles in the boiling water for half the time specified on the package. Drain thoroughly.
- Grease a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- In a large bowl, combine softened Neufchatel or cream cheese, sour cream, and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in flaked tuna, chopped green onions, and chopped red bell pepper.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the drained noodles to the tuna mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
- Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake until bubbly and browned on top, about 25 minutes, then serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the cheese mixture. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked or leftover noodles. Substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream can add a tangy flavor while reducing fat. Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist on this classic dish.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a more filling option, serve it alongside garlic bread or roasted asparagus. Feel free to garnish with additional chopped green onions or a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor and color.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave, covered, for about 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warm and bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New Tuna Noodle Casserole contains roughly 363 calories, with 25g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1070mg per serving (47% 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 a different type of pasta in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute farfalle or medium egg noodles with other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat options. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type to ensure it’s perfectly al dente before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Is there a gluten-free option for this casserole?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta alternatives, such as brown rice pasta or quinoa pasta, to make this dish gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients, like cream cheese and tuna, are typically gluten-free, but always check labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time 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).