Tuna Noodle Casserole Crispy

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a classic Tuna Noodle Casserole. This retro dish brings together tender noodles, flaky tuna, and creamy sauce, all topped with a satisfying crunch. The crispy aspect of this recipe is not just a delightful surprise; it elevates the dish to new heights, making it an instant hit at the dinner table. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that is sure to become a family favorite!

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 450
• Protein: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 45 grams
• Fat: 20 grams
• Fiber: 3 grams
• Sugar: 3 grams
• Sodium: 650 mg

Why Make This Tuna Noodle Casserole Crispy

Crispy Tuna Noodle Casserole takes a beloved comfort food and adds an irresistible crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. The mixture of textures—smooth noodles, flaky tuna, and crunchy fried onions—creates a delightful eating experience. Not only is it nostalgic, but it also provides a quick, filling meal that checks all the boxes for taste and satisfaction. With ingredients you likely already have on hand, this recipe is an excellent solution for those hectic weeknights.

How to Make Tuna Noodle Casserole Crispy

Crafting this casserole is straightforward and rewarding. You can easily prepare this dish in under an hour, making it perfect for busy cooks. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve in no time.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz wide egg noodles
• 2 cans (6 oz each) tuna in water, drained
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms, optional
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme, optional
• 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions (store-bought)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cooking Noodles

Boil the egg noodles in salted water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the noodles and set them aside while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 3: Sautéing Aromatics

In a skillet set to medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a drizzle of oil until softened, approximately 3 minutes. If you choose to include mushrooms, add them now and cook until tender, about an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Mixing the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme (if using) until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combining Ingredients

Gently fold in the cooked noodles, drained tuna, frozen peas, sautéed onion and garlic mixture, and chopped parsley into the creamy sauce. Make sure everything is well mixed.

Step 6: Baking the Casserole

Transfer the noodle mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole, followed by a generous layer of crispy fried onions.

Step 7: Finishing Up

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping turns golden brown. Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Tuna Noodle Casserole Crispy

Serve the casserole warm, directly from the oven. It pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness. You can also offer some crusty bread on the side for those who enjoy a little extra crunch.

How to Store Tuna Noodle Casserole Crispy

If you have leftovers, this casserole stores well! Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It will keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, adding a little extra cheese on top if desired.

Expert Tips for Perfect Tuna Noodle Casserole Crispy

• For a creamier texture, consider swapping out some of the milk with half-and-half.
• You can use different types of cheese, like mozzarella or a sharp cheese, for a flavor twist.
• If you’re looking to make it healthier, replace the egg noodles with whole wheat noodles or gluten-free pasta.
• Adding a dash of lemon juice to the mixture before baking can brighten up the flavors beautifully.
• For a spice kick, incorporate some diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Delicious Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace tuna with cooked chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly version while keeping all the other elements the same.
• Seafood Twist: Use canned salmon or shrimp in place of the tuna for a delightful seafood alternative.
• Mexican Casserole: Add some diced green chiles, cumin, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning to the mix for a Mexican flair.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use fresh pasta instead of dried noodles?
  Yes! Fresh pasta will cook much faster than dried pasta. Briefly adjust the boiling time and keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

• Is there a non-dairy substitute for the sour cream?
  Coconut yogurt or cashew cream can serve as excellent substitutes for sour cream if you’re looking for a non-dairy alternative.

• How can I add more veggies to this dish?
  You can include diced bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Sauté them along with the onions and garlic to enhance the flavor.

• Can I make this dish in advance?
  Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

• What should I do if I don’t have crispy fried onions?
  You can crush some plain potato chips, cornflakes, or make your own by frying thinly sliced onions until golden brown and crispy.

Conclusion

Tuna Noodle Casserole Crispy is more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming dish that brings together family and friends. With its creamy filling and crunchy topping, each bite is comforting and satisfying. Easy to make and full of flavor, this casserole is sure to garner rave reviews from your loved ones. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and bring this delicious recipe to life in your kitchen. You’re just a step away from a delightful family meal that can be enjoyed again and again!

Crispy Tuna Noodle Casserole

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• Author: mia-harper
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Pescatarian

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Description

A comforting classic with flaky tuna, tender noodles, and a crunchy topping, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

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• 12 oz wide egg noodles
• 2 cans (6 oz each) tuna in water, drained
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms, optional
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme, optional
• 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions (store-bought)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Boil the egg noodles in salted water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a drizzle of oil until softened, about 3 minutes. Add mushrooms if using, and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and thyme until smooth.
5. Fold in the noodles, tuna, peas, sautéed onion and garlic, and parsley into the sauce until well mixed.
6. Transfer the mixture to the baking dish. Combine the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole, followed by a layer of crispy fried onions.
7. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra creaminess, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. Substitute tuna with cooked chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 60mg