Growing up, my mom’s Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) was a staple in our household. I can still remember the aroma of the creamy, cheesy noodles wafting through the kitchen as it baked to golden-brown perfection. It was the ultimate comfort food, and I always looked forward to diving into a big helping straight from the oven. Even as an adult, this dish takes me right back to those cozy family dinners and the warm, fuzzy feelings they evoke.
Over the years, I’ve put my own spin on Mom’s recipe, introducing a few modern twists that take the classic Tuna Noodle Casserole to new heights. Trust me, this updated version is going to become a new favorite in your household too.
Why This Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
What sets this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) apart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key is in the careful selection and preparation of the ingredients. By sautéing the mushrooms and onions before combining them with the other elements, we develop a rich, savory base that infuses every bite. The addition of garlic and onion powders, along with a touch of black pepper, elevates the overall taste profile.
But the real game-changer is the crispy breadcrumb topping. By tossing the breadcrumbs in melted butter before sprinkling them over the casserole, you get a delightfully crunchy contrast to the creamy noodles beneath. It’s a simple yet ingenious touch that takes this classic dish to new levels of deliciousness.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s take a closer look at the star players in this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe:
- 12 ounces egg noodles – The foundation of the dish, these tender noodles provide the perfect canvas for the other flavors.
- 2 (5-ounce) cans tuna, drained – High-quality canned tuna is the protein powerhouse, adding a delicate seafood flavor.
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup – This creamy, savory base ties all the ingredients together, creating a luscious sauce.
- 1 cup milk – Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup frozen peas – A pop of color and freshness to balance the heavier elements.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Elevates the overall flavor with its salty, umami notes.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the savory notes and complements the mushroom soup.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – Provides a subtle, sweet onion flavor that ties everything together.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – A simple seasoning that adds a touch of warmth and depth.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – The secret to that irresistible crispy topping.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Binds the breadcrumbs and creates a golden-brown crust.
Step-by-Step Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) Instructions
Preparing Your Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
With a total time of just 45 minutes, this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe is a weeknight lifesaver. You’ll need a large pot, a mixing bowl, and a casserole dish to get started.
1- First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 ounces of egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
2- In the mixing bowl, combine the 2 cans of drained tuna, 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup of milk, 1/2 cup frozen peas, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix everything together until well incorporated.
3- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
4- Add the cooked egg noodles to the tuna mixture and stir until the noodles are evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
5- In a small bowl, combine the 1/2 cup breadcrumbs and 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Toss to coat the breadcrumbs evenly. Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole.
6- Bake the Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use high-quality canned tuna for the best flavor. I recommend albacore or solid white tuna.
- Don’t overcook the egg noodles – they should be just shy of fully cooked before assembling the casserole. This will prevent them from turning mushy in the oven.
- For an extra creamy texture, consider using a blend of cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups.
- Customize the veggie mix-ins – try adding diced celery, sliced mushrooms, or chopped onions for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the top for a melty, cheesy finish.
Serving and Storing Your Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
Perfect Pairings for Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
This Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe serves 6 generously. It’s the perfect main dish for a cozy family dinner, but it also makes a great contribution to potlucks and gatherings. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty garlic bread. A light white wine or crisp lager also complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) is an excellent make-ahead option. Once assembled, you can cover and refrigerate the casserole for up to 3 days before baking. When ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
For longer-term storage, this dish freezes exceptionally well. Let the baked casserole cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
Creative Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) Variations
- Swap the egg noodles for whole-wheat pasta or gluten-free noodles for a healthier twist.
- Add diced bell peppers or sliced mushrooms for extra veggie goodness.
- Replace the cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Sprinkle crushed potato chips or crushed cornflakes on top for a delightfully crunchy topping.
Making Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) Diet-Friendly
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta or rice noodles and substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a gluten-free version. To make it dairy-free, replace the milk with unsweetened plant-based milk, and use vegan cheese or omit the Parmesan altogether. For a low-carb adaptation, serve the tuna mixture over steamed cauliflower florets instead of pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta instead of egg noodles?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute the egg noodles with any short-shaped pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: How long should I bake the Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)?
A: The total baking time for this recipe is 30 minutes. This ensures the casserole is heated through and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy.
Q: Can I make this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) ahead of time?
A: Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 3 days before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake as directed.
Q: How many servings does this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe make?
A: This recipe yields 6 generous servings. If you’re serving a smaller crowd, you can easily halve the ingredients and bake in a smaller casserole dish.
Q: What should I do if the top of the casserole is browning too quickly?
A: If the breadcrumb topping is browning faster than the casserole is heating through, simply cover the dish loosely with foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking. This will allow the center to finish cooking without further browning the top.
Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) is a comforting and delicious twist on the classic dish. Featuring tender egg noodles, a creamy sauce, and flavorful tuna, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients
– 12 ounces egg noodles
– 2 (5-ounce) cans tuna, drained
– 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup frozen peas
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, frozen peas, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well until fully incorporated.
4. Add the cooked egg noodles to the tuna mixture and stir gently to combine.
5. Transfer the tuna noodle mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
8. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a creamier texture, you can use 1 1/2 cups of milk instead of 1 cup. You can also add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the tuna mixture for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe is a true comfort food classic with a modern twist. The creamy, cheesy noodles, tender tuna, and crispy breadcrumb topping create a perfectly balanced dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With its quick prep time and easy instructions, this casserole is the perfect weeknight solution for a satisfying and delicious meal. I can’t wait for you to try this updated take on a beloved comfort food – I know you’re going to love it as much as I do!
