Tuna Noodle Casserole

Make the best Tuna Noodle Casserole with this easy, creamy recipe! Packed with tender egg noodles, hearty tuna, savory cheddar cheese, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping, this comforting classic is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Customize with your favorite vegetables, explore simple substitutions, and enjoy tips for the crispiest topping and richest flavors. Learn how to make this quick and satisfying casserole, plus get ideas for serving, variations, and storage!

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 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 use a 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

For the Topping:

• 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Optional Garnish:

• 3 green onions, diced

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Instructions

1. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Shred Cheese: Shred the cheddar cheese and set it aside to come to room temperature.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced celery and onions, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Prepare the Sauce: Lower the heat to low. Stir in drained tuna, salt, pepper, celery salt, cream of mushroom soup, half-and-half, and sour cream. Mix until well combined. Gradually add shredded white cheddar, stirring until melted and smooth.
5. Cook the Noodles: Cook egg noodles 1 minute shy of the package instructions. Optional: Add bouillon cubes to the boiling water for extra flavor. Drain and set aside.
6. Combine Ingredients: Add cooked noodles and frozen peas to the cream sauce. Use a silicone spatula to gently mix until evenly combined.
7. Assemble the Casserole: If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Top with shredded Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake Covered: Cover and bake for 20 minutes.
9. Add Topping: Combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole. Bake uncovered for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
10. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with diced green onions, and serve warm.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with nostalgic flavors.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt to your family’s preferences.

Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Let cheese and sour cream come to room temperature for smoother incorporation.
• Enhanced Flavor: Boiling noodles with bouillon cubes adds extra depth of flavor.
• Noodle Doneness: Slightly undercooking the noodles prevents them from becoming mushy in the oven.
• Crispy Topping: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of Ritz crackers for a crunchier topping.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Swap tuna with cooked chicken, turkey, or salmon.
• Vegetables: Add mushrooms, spinach, or carrots for extra nutrition.
• Cheese Varieties: Use Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese for a flavor twist.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream, half-and-half, and cheese with dairy-free alternatives.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen? A: Yes! Blanch fresh peas before adding them to the dish.

Q: How can I make this gluten-free? A: Use gluten-free noodles, a gluten-free condensed soup, and gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Serving and Suggestions

• Sides: Pair with a simple side salad or steamed green beans for a complete meal.
• Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic rolls for dipping.
• Drinks: Complement with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea.

Enjoy this warm and comforting Tuna Noodle Casserole—a timeless dish that brings everyone to the table!