Refreshing Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe Delight

Name: Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz wide egg noodles; 2 cans (5 oz each) high-quality canned tuna, drained; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup milk; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs; 1 tsp onion powder; ¼ tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

Recipe By:

Ruth

Posted:

April 9, 2025

Updated:

April 9, 2025

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You know that feeling when the sun is shining, and you’re just in the mood for something comforting yet refreshing? That’s where Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole struts into the spotlight, bringing a delightful twist to a classic dish. Imagine tender noodles enveloped in a creamy sauce, punctuated by chunks of flaky tuna and vibrant veggies, all baked to golden perfection. The aroma wafting from your kitchen will transport you back to sun-soaked picnics and family gatherings, making your mouth water with anticipation.

This casserole isn’t just food it’s a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re hosting a summer potluck or simply trying to impress your family on a Wednesday night, this dish shines bright like the summer sun. It’s quick to whip up, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying those long evenings with loved ones. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this flavor-packed adventure together

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavors that everyone will adore
You can make it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when guests arrive
Its colorful presentation makes it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate
Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on what you have in your pantry

I’ll never forget the first time I made this dish for my friends their eyes lit up as they took their first bites, and they kept coming back for seconds

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Egg Noodles: These are the backbone of your casserole opt for wide egg noodles for the best texture.
Canned Tuna: Look for high-quality tuna packed in water or oil for maximum flavor.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This serves as the creamy base you can use low-fat versions if preferred.
Frozen Peas: They add color and sweetness no need to thaw before using
Shredded Cheese: A mix of cheddar and mozzarella creates a gooey topping that’s hard to resist.
Breadcrumbs: Use seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra crunch on top plain works too
Milk: Helps create that luscious sauce texture whole milk gives the richest flavor.
Onion Powder: This adds depth feel free to substitute with fresh onions if you prefer.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds a nice kick at the end.
Olive Oil or Butter: A touch of fat brings all these ingredients together beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Gather Your Ingredients: Before diving into cooking, pull out all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This saves time later while things are heating up.

Cook the Noodles: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them well but don’t rinse keep that starchy goodness

Create Your Sauce Mixture : In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, onion powder, black pepper, and half of your shredded cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Add Your Main Ingredients : Fold in cooked noodles along with drained tuna and frozen peas into the sauce mixture gently until everything is evenly coated.

Transfer to Baking Dish : Spray a large casserole dish with nonstick spray. Pour in your noodle mixture and spread it out evenly. Top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs for an irresistible crunchy topping.

Bake Until Golden Brown : Pop your casserole into the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. The smell alone will make everyone rush into the kitchen

Now you’ve created an incredible Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering Enjoy every cheesy bite while reminiscing about sunny days spent outdoors

You Must Know

Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole is a nostalgia-packed dish that brings comfort in every bite
The blend of creamy sauce, tender noodles, and flaky tuna creates a symphony of flavors
Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, it’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the noodles first while they cook, mix the creamy sauce and tuna. This ensures everything comes together smoothly, saving you time and keeping your casserole creamy.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out tuna for chicken or add colorful veggies like peas or bell peppers. This flexibility allows you to tailor your casserole to suit your family’s taste preferences perfectly.

Storing & Reheating

To store, cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For an extra cheesy experience, sprinkle shredded cheese on top before baking
Ensuring even cooking requires stirring halfway through baking
Use low-sodium canned tuna to control salt levels in your casserole

My friend once told me that this casserole saved her from dinner disaster when her in-laws dropped by unexpectedly. She whipped it up in no time, and they all loved it

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Absolutely Just cook the fresh tuna first and then flake it into the mixture.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

Greek yogurt works great as a healthier alternative while still keeping it creamy.

How long does Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole last in the fridge?

It can last up to three days if stored properly in an airtight container.

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