Growing up, Tuna Noodle Casserole was a dinnertime staple in our household. My mom would make it a few times a month, and I can still remember the aroma of the warm, creamy dish wafting through the kitchen. As a busy working mom herself, she loved how quick and easy it was to prepare. But what I remember most was how comforting and satisfying it always felt. There was just something about that combination of tender noodles, flaky tuna, and a rich, velvety sauce that hit the spot every time.
Over the years, I’ve experimented with all sorts of casserole recipes, but this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) version has become my absolute favorite. It takes the classic dish I know and love and gives it a modern, elevated twist that makes it even more crave-worthy. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to become a new family favorite in your house too.
Table of Contents
Why This Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
What sets this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe apart is the thoughtful blend of flavors and textures. Instead of the typical canned soup base, I’ve swapped in a homemade creamy mushroom sauce that’s silky-smooth and bursting with umami. The addition of shredded cheddar cheese gives it a luxurious, cheesy richness, while the crunchy breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch in every bite.
But the real secret weapon is the use of high-quality canned tuna. I opt for solid albacore tuna packed in water, which has a delicate, flaky texture and clean, pure tuna flavor that really shines through. Combined with the egg noodles, which get perfectly tender in the oven, it creates a casserole that’s comforting and satisfying, yet still feels elevated and modern.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe, you’ll need a few simple, everyday ingredients:
- 2 (5-ounce) cans tuna, drained – The star of the show! High-quality canned tuna provides the perfect flaky texture and rich, savory flavor.
- 12 ounces egg noodles – Tender egg noodles are the classic choice for tuna casserole, soaking up all the creamy sauce.
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup – The base of the creamy sauce, adding a delicious umami punch.
- 1 cup milk – Thinning out the sauce to create a luxuriously smooth and creamy consistency.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melty, cheesy goodness that takes this casserole to the next level.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs – Sprinkled on top, these crunchy breadcrumbs provide the perfect contrast to the creamy casserole.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted – Helping the breadcrumbs achieve that golden-brown, crispy topping.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley – Adding a fresh, herbal note to balance the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – For a subtle background of savory garlic flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper – Simple seasonings to enhance the overall taste.
Step-by-Step Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) Instructions
Preparing Your Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
This Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) comes together quickly, with a total time of just 45 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need a large pot, a mixing bowl, and a 9×13-inch baking dish to get started.
1- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until just shy of al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
2- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, melted butter, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well-incorporated.
3- Add the cooked egg noodles to the tuna mixture and gently toss to coat the noodles evenly. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
4- Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole. The mixture should be moist and the breadcrumbs should be lightly golden brown.
5- Bake the Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the top is crisp and golden brown.
6- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Scoop out generous portions and enjoy this comforting, modern take on a classic dish.
Pro Tips for Success
Here are a few expert tips to ensure your Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) turns out perfectly every time:
- Use high-quality canned tuna for the best flavor and texture. Solid white albacore tuna is the way to go.
- Don’t overcook the egg noodles – they should be just shy of al dente before assembling the casserole. This prevents them from getting mushy in the oven.
- For an extra creamy sauce, consider swapping out some of the milk for heavy cream or half-and-half.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top to create a crisp, golden-brown topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole.
Serving and Storing Your Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
Perfect Pairings for Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
This Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe serves 6 hearty portions, making it a great choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. To round out the meal, I love serving it with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole. A side of roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli also makes a delicious companion.
As for beverages, a chilled white wine or a light, refreshing beer are both excellent pairings. The casserole’s creamy texture and savory flavors also pair wonderfully with a cold glass of lemonade or iced tea.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat individual portions in the microwave or the oven at 350°F until heated through.
For make-ahead convenience, you can assemble the entire casserole up to 2 days in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven and bake as directed. This is a great way to get a head start on meal prep for busy weeknights.
Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) also freezes beautifully. Once the casserole has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F until heated through, about 30-40 minutes.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
Creative Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) Variations
While this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it:
- Swap in different types of pasta, like penne or fusilli, for a change of texture.
- For a veggie-packed version, mix in sautéed mushrooms, peas, or diced bell peppers.
- Try topping the casserole with a crunchy layer of crushed potato chips or french-fried onions instead of breadcrumbs.
- Spice things up by adding a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce to the tuna mixture.
Making Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) Diet-Friendly
If you’re looking to make this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe a little more diet-friendly, there are several easy swaps you can try:
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta or rice noodles instead of the egg noodles.
- Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free or low-fat version, and use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk in place of regular milk.
- Omit the cheddar cheese or swap it for a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast or shredded plant-based cheese.
- Use whole wheat breadcrumbs or crushed almonds for a healthier topping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of canned tuna besides albacore?
A: While albacore tuna is the preferred choice for its delicate texture and pure tuna flavor, you can certainly use other types of canned tuna in this recipe. Light tuna or even canned salmon would work well as a substitute.
Q: How long does this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) take to prepare?
A: This recipe has a total time of 45 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cook time. The noodles cook quickly, and the rest of the assembly comes together in just a few simple steps.
Q: Can I make this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 2 days in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. This makes it a great option for easy meal prep.
Q: How many servings does this Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe make?
A: This recipe serves 6 generous portions, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The rich, creamy casserole is hearty and satisfying, so a little goes a long way.
Q: What should I do if my Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) comes out dry?
A: If your casserole turns out a bit dry, try adding a splash more milk to the tuna mixture before baking. You can also cover the dish with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking to help keep the moisture in.
Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern)
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) is a comforting and delicious twist on the classic dish, featuring a creamy, flavorful sauce and tender egg noodles. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients
– 2 (5-ounce) cans tuna, drained
– 12 ounces egg noodles
– 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Stir until well blended.
4. Add the cooked egg noodles to the tuna mixture and stir to coat the noodles.
5. Transfer the tuna noodle mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, melted butter, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
7. Sprinkle the cheese-breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the tuna noodle casserole.
8. Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For a creamier texture, you can add an extra 1/4 cup of milk to the tuna mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or add in frozen peas or diced bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Chicken, Turkey & Pork Mains
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Tuna Noodle Casserole (Modern) recipe is a true comfort food classic, elevated with a few simple tweaks that take it to new heights of deliciousness. The creamy, cheesy sauce, tender noodles, and flaky tuna all come together in a casserole that’s both satisfying and surprisingly sophisticated.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual get-together, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and I’m confident it will become a new go-to in your household, just like it has in mine. And be sure to let me know what you think in the comments – I love hearing your feedback!
