Growing up, I can still remember the aroma of Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) wafting through my mom’s kitchen. It was a dish that embodied the nostalgia of home-cooked meals and the warmth of family gathered around the table. As a kid, I couldn’t get enough of that creamy, flavorful blend of tender noodles, flaky tuna, and perfectly seasoned sauce. Even now, as an adult, the mere thought of this dish takes me right back to those cherished memories.
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) recipe apart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. I’ve perfected the technique over the years, ensuring the noodles are cooked to a delightful al dente, the tuna is flaky and moist, and the sauce is creamy, rich, and bursting with savory goodness. The addition of frozen peas and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese takes this classic dish to new heights, adding a touch of sweetness and a delightful crunchy topping.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
The key to this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe is the carefully selected ingredients. First, you’ll need 12 ounces of egg noodles, which provide the perfect base for the casserole. The 2 (5-ounce) cans of tuna, drained, add the protein and that classic tuna flavor we all love. The 1 (10.5-ounce) can of cream of mushroom soup creates the rich, creamy sauce, while the 1 cup of milk helps to thin it out and make it extra smooth. The 1/2 cup of frozen peas adds a pop of color and a sweet contrast to the savory flavors. Finally, the 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper tie it all together for a perfectly seasoned dish.
Step-by-Step Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) Instructions
Preparing Your Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
Preparing this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) couldn’t be easier. With a total time of just 45 minutes, 15 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking, you can have this comforting dish on the table in no time. All you’ll need is a large pot, a mixing bowl, and a baking dish.
1- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is at a rolling boil, add the 12 ounces of egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until they’re tender and al dente.
2- While the noodles are cooking, in a mixing bowl, combine the 2 (5-ounce) cans of drained tuna, 1 (10.5-ounce) can of cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of frozen peas, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well incorporated.
3- Once the noodles are cooked, drain them and add them directly to the tuna mixture in the mixing bowl. Gently fold everything together until the noodles are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
4- Transfer the tuna noodle mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, ensuring the top is smooth and level.
5- Bake the Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) in a preheated 375°F oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
6- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out generous portions and enjoy this comforting, flavor-packed Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) hot from the oven.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) turns out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips:
- Don’t overcook the egg noodles – you want them to be tender but still have a bit of bite to them.
- Use high-quality canned tuna for the best flavor and texture.
- Taste the sauce mixture before baking and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- For an extra creamy casserole, use a combination of cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups.
Serving and Storing Your Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
Perfect Pairings for Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
This Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe serves 6 generous portions, making it the perfect comforting main dish for a family dinner or a cozy night in. To round out the meal, consider serving it with a fresh green salad, steamed broccoli, or garlic-roasted Brussels sprouts. For beverages, a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea would pair beautifully.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe is that it’s so easy to make ahead and store. If you have leftovers, simply cover the baking dish and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop it back in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
For make-ahead convenience, you can assemble the entire casserole in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. When ready to serve, simply remove it from the fridge, let it come to room temperature, and bake as directed.
You can also freeze this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake it at 375°F for 45-60 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the edges are bubbling.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
Creative Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) Variations
While this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe is a classic, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Try swapping the egg noodles for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Substitute the canned tuna with flaked salmon or shredded chicken for different protein options. Add a touch of spice with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a veggie-packed version, mix in sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or chopped spinach.
Making Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) Diet-Friendly
To make this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe more diet-friendly, there are a few simple substitutions you can try. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. For a lower-carb option, swap the egg noodles for riced cauliflower or zucchini noodles. To make it dairy-free, use a plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta besides egg noodles?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute the 12 ounces of egg noodles with any pasta of your choice, such as whole wheat, gluten-free, or even spiral-shaped pasta.
Q: How long does it take to make this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)?
A: The total time to prepare and bake this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) is 45 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cook time.
Q: Can I freeze the Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)?
A: Yes, you can! This casserole freezes very well. Simply assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the freezer at 375°F for 45-60 minutes.
Q: How many servings does this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe make?
A: This Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe makes 6 generous servings.
Q: What if the casserole turns out too dry or too soupy?
A: If the casserole is too dry, you can add a bit more milk to the sauce mixture before baking. If it’s too soupy, try increasing the amount of egg noodles or reducing the baking time slightly.
Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Discover the ultimate comfort food with this modern take on the classic Tuna Noodle Casserole. This creamy, flavorful dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners, packed with tender tuna, egg noodles, and a rich, velvety sauce.
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 dried parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat the 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, dried parsley, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
4. Add the cooked egg noodles to the tuna mixture and stir gently to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a crunchy topping, you can sprinkle crushed crackers or breadcrumbs over the casserole before baking. You can also add chopped celery or onions for extra flavor. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- 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 delicious twist. The combination of tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, and a creamy, flavorful sauce is simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to be a hit.
I hope you’ll give this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) a try and experience the same joy and nostalgia that I do every time I make it. Let me know in the comments how your version turns out, and feel free to share any of your own creative variations. Bon appétit!
