In questo articolo, esploreremo una ricetta deliziosa e facile da preparare.
Introduction
Welcome to AdrianRecipes.com, your go-to source for delicious, time-tested recipes. Today, we’re diving into a classic comfort dish that’s been beloved for generations—the Old-Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole. This dish is a warm hug in a pan, combining tender egg noodles, savory tuna, and creamy sauces, all topped with a crunchy, buttery crust. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a hearty, satisfying meal. Let’s explore how to make this nostalgic favorite with a modern twist.
Ingredients List
To create the perfect Old-Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 5 cups dry egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder (optional)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of celery soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 (4 oz) cans tuna, drained
- 1 tablespoon Mrs. Dash Garlic & Herb Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Timing
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the chicken bouillon powder for extra flavor. Cook the egg noodles for about 4 minutes. They should be slightly undercooked as they’ll finish baking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, sour cream, milk, frozen peas, drained tuna, garlic powder, Mrs. Dash seasoning, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and evenly blended.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked noodles to the creamy mixture. Gently fold until the noodles are well-coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese over the top.
Step 6: Add the Topping
Mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Scatter this buttery crumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
Step 7: Bake
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, until it’s hot, bubbling, and the topping is golden brown.
Nutritional Information
This comforting casserole serves about 8 portions. Each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you’re looking to lighten up this classic dish, consider these healthier alternatives:
- Use whole wheat egg noodles for added fiber.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce fat.
- Opt for low-sodium soups to control salt intake.
- Incorporate more veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Old-Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal. A crisp Chardonnay or a chilled iced tea complements the flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Noodles: Ensure the noodles are slightly undercooked before baking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t overlook seasoning. It enhances the overall flavor of the casserole.
- Uneven Topping: Distribute the cracker topping evenly to ensure a uniform crispy crust.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the casserole for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
This Old-Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole is a classic favorite, perfect for sharing with family and friends. By following these simple steps, you can bring a touch of nostalgia to your dining table with modern, healthier twists.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, you can use cooked fresh tuna, but canned tuna is more convenient and traditional for this recipe.
2. What other cheeses can I use?
Cheddar or mozzarella can be great alternatives to Colby Jack.
3. How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Use gluten-free noodles and crackers to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Explore more comforting recipes on AdrianRecipes.com, and don’t forget to try our other casserole favorites like the classic Chicken and Rice Casserole!
Old-Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and stir in the bouillon powder. Boil the egg noodles for about 4 minutes — they should be slightly undercooked since they’ll finish baking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
- Make the creamy base: In a large mixing bowl, combine both soups, sour cream, milk, peas, tuna, garlic powder, Mrs. Dash seasoning, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and evenly blended.
- Combine: Add the cooked noodles to the mixture and fold gently until well coated.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.
- Add the topping: Mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter, then scatter the buttery crumbs evenly over the casserole.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, until hot, bubbling, and the topping is golden brown.
