Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe

This Tuna Noodle Casserole is a comforting classic, combining tender egg noodles, a creamy sauce, and savory tuna. With a crunchy Ritz cracker topping, this dish is perfect for family dinners or as a hearty potluck favorite. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a go-to meal.

Ingredients

• Casserole Base:
  • 3 cups dry egg noodles (about 4 cups cooked)
  • 2 chicken bouillon cubes (optional)
  • 8 oz. shredded White Cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 rib celery, diced
  • ½ yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cans solid white albacore tuna in water, drained (5 oz. per can)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon celery salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 (10.5 oz.) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (or homemade version)
  • 1.5 cups half and half (see notes)
  • ½ cup sour cream, at room temperature
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• Topping:
  • 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Optional Garnish:
  • 3 green onions, diced

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Shred the White Cheddar cheese and set it aside to come to room temperature.

2. Make the Sauce

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, until softened.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Reduce heat to low. Add the drained tuna, salt, celery salt, pepper, cream of mushroom soup, half and half, and sour cream. Mix until fully combined.
4. Gradually sprinkle in the shredded White Cheddar cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

3. Cook the Egg Noodles

1. Cook the egg noodles 1 minute less than the package directions. Add 2 bouillon cubes to the boiling water for extra flavor, if desired.
2. Drain the noodles and mix them with the peas in the cream sauce. Use a silicone spatula to gently combine everything.

4. Assemble the Casserole

1. If not using an oven-safe skillet, transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
2. Top with Parmesan cheese and cover with foil. Bake for 20 minutes.

5. Add the Topping

1. Combine the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
2. Bake uncovered for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.

6. Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from the oven, garnish with diced green onions if desired, and serve hot.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Delicious: A timeless comfort food made with pantry staples.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the creamy, cheesy flavor.
• Customizable: Easy to adjust ingredients to suit your preferences.
• Quick Prep: Comes together with minimal effort for busy weeknights.

Tips

• Allow the cheese and sour cream to come to room temperature for smoother incorporation.
• Use a silicone spatula for gentle stirring to avoid breaking up the noodles.
• Enhance the flavor by using homemade cream of mushroom soup if you have time.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein: Swap tuna for cooked chicken, shrimp, or turkey.
• Vegetables: Add mushrooms, spinach, or diced bell peppers for extra nutrients.
• Cheese: Try Gruyere, Colby, or Pepper Jack for a flavor twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and crackers to accommodate dietary needs.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole without the topping and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
Panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or potato chips make excellent alternatives.

Serving

Serve this casserole warm with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs well with crusty bread or garlic knots.

Suggestions

• For added crunch, sprinkle toasted almonds or sunflower seeds over the topping.
• Add a drizzle of hot sauce for those who like a bit of spice.
• Serve leftovers in a thermos for a hearty, portable lunch option.