Tuna-Noodle Quickie
A quick and comforting tuna casserole with creamy soups and noodles, perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover the bottom of a casserole dish with dry noodles.
- Mix milk and vegetable soup together and pour half of it over the noodles.
- Scatter the canned tuna over this layer.
- Pour the remaining soup mixture over the tuna.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to the soup mixture. You can also substitute the tuna with canned chicken if desired. If you want extra flavor, mix in some sautéed onions or garlic. For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking. This dish is a quick and easy weeknight meal that can be customized to fit your pantry ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
This Tuna-Noodle Quickie pairs beautifully with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside garlic bread. If you're in the mood for seafood recipes, consider making a side of Cheesy Tuna Burgers for a delightful contrast. Garnish the casserole with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added flavor and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings on medium power, stirring occasionally, until warm. This helps maintain the dish's creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna-Noodle Quickie contains roughly 687 calories, with 28g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (57% of the Daily Value), iron (50% of the Daily Value), and calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 959mg per serving (42% 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 dry?
Yes, you can use fresh noodles, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Fresh noodles typically require less baking time, so start checking for doneness at around 20 minutes. They should be tender but not mushy. Just ensure that the overall dish is heated through.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
Absolutely! You can use low-fat milk and reduced-sodium soups to cut down on calories and sodium. Additionally, adding more vegetables like peas or spinach can boost the nutritional value. Consider using whole wheat noodles for extra fiber, making this dish a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Can I freeze the Tuna-Noodle Quickie?
Yes, this dish can be frozen. Cool it completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until hot throughout.
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).