Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy meal? Then look no further than this creamy tuna noodle casserole made with creamy mushroom soup! This classic dish gets a delicious upgrade with simple additions that elevate it from weeknight staple to a family favorite. It’s the perfect example of healthy meals and delicious dishes being one and the same. Get ready to enjoy this quick dinner idea that's sure to become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 (5 ounce) cans tuna in water, drained
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Butter (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Noodles: Cook egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside. This is a crucial step for ensuring perfectly cooked noodles that won't become mushy.
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Sauté Aromatics: While the noodles cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your casserole.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, sautéed onion and garlic mixture, cream of mushroom soup, milk, Parmesan cheese, drained tuna, frozen peas, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix everything together until well combined.
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Bake (Optional): For an extra crispy and golden-brown topping, you can transfer the casserole to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top and dot with small pieces of butter. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
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Serve: Whether you baked it or not, your delicious tuna noodle casserole is ready to serve! This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Cooking Tips for the Best Tuna Noodle Casserole:
- Don't overcook the noodles: Follow the package directions precisely to avoid mushy noodles.
- Fresh herbs make a difference: Using fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor that elevates the dish.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
Variations:
- Creamy Tomato: Replace the cream of mushroom soup with cream of tomato soup for a different flavor profile.
- Cheesy Goodness: Add a layer of shredded cheddar cheese before baking for an extra cheesy kick.
- Spicy Tuna: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, without breadcrumbs):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Always check your ingredient labels for the most accurate nutritional data.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Around 20-25g
- Fat: Around 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This creamy tuna noodle casserole is a simple, satisfying, and surprisingly healthy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy this easy recipe and feel free to share your culinary creations! It's a fantastic example of how easy and delicious homemade cooking can be. We hope this becomes one of your best recipes!