Best Tuna Casserole

The Ultimate Tuna Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

Are you looking for a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners? Look no further than this delicious recipe for the Best Tuna Casserole! Packed with creamy mushroom sauce, tender egg noodles, flavorful tuna, and topped with a crispy potato chip crust, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Join us as we explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, and even keto and low-carb versions of this classic comfort food dish!

Introduction

Tuna casserole is a timeless classic that brings together simple ingredients to create a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for an easy weeknight dinner or simply craving a taste of nostalgia, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and crunchy topping, this tuna casserole is guaranteed to please even the pickiest of eaters. Let’s dive into how to make this beloved dish!

Ingredients:

For the Tuna Casserole:

  • 1 (12 ounce) package egg noodles
  • 2 (10.5 ounce) cans condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
  • 2 (5 ounce) cans tuna, drained
  • 1 cup frozen green peas
  • 1/2 (4.5 ounce) can sliced mushrooms
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup crushed potato chips

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
  2. Cook the Egg Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese, drained tuna, frozen green peas, sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, and cooked egg noodles. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
  4. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the tuna mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded Cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
  5. Add the Topping: Sprinkle the crushed potato chips evenly over the top of the casserole, covering it completely.
  6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
  7. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add extra vegetables to this casserole for added flavor and nutrition. Diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers would all be delicious additions.
  • Use Different Cheeses: While Cheddar cheese is traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with different cheeses to change up the flavor. Gruyere, Swiss, or Monterey Jack would all work well.
  • Make It Creamier: For an even creamier casserole, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce mixture before baking.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version: To make this recipe keto-friendly, replace the egg noodles with cooked spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles. Use a low-carb cream of mushroom soup and omit the potato chip topping. Instead, top the casserole with a mixture of crushed pork rinds and grated Parmesan cheese for a crunchy, low-carb crust.

Low-Carb Version: Follow the same instructions as the keto version but feel free to include the potato chip topping if it fits within your carb allowance for the day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned? A: Yes, you can use fresh mushrooms instead of canned. Simply slice them thinly and sauté them in a little butter or olive oil until they are tender before adding them to the casserole.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add the potato chip topping right before baking to ensure it stays crispy.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this casserole for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and crunchy topping, this Best Tuna Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this classic comfort food dish is sure to be a hit. Plus, with the option to make keto and low-carb versions, everyone can enjoy a taste of nostalgia without sacrificing their dietary preferences. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a deliciously comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion!