Irresistible Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe

When the sun shines brightly, and the world feels alive with possibilities, there’s nothing quite like a dish that embodies those summer vibes. Enter the Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole a comforting, creamy delight that sings of childhood memories and warm family gatherings. Picture tender noodles enveloped in a rich sauce, punctuated by bursts of flavor from tuna and vegetables, all baked to perfection until golden brown.

This casserole isn’t just food it’s nostalgia on a plate. I recall sunny afternoons when my mom would whip up this masterpiece, filling our kitchen with an irresistible aroma that drew us in like moths to a flame. Whether enjoyed at a picnic or as a simple weeknight dinner, this dish promises not only satisfaction but also an experience that warms the heart.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole combines ease of preparation with a deliciously creamy flavor profile
  • Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing and perfect for summer gatherings
  • You can easily customize it based on your pantry staples, making it versatile for any occasion

I remember serving this dish to friends for the first time there were smiles all around It became an instant hit and sparked countless recipe requests.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

  • Egg Noodles: The classic choice for their ability to soak up flavors while maintaining a delightful texture.
  • Canned Tuna: Opt for good-quality tuna packed in water or oil it makes all the difference in taste.
  • Frozen Peas: These little green gems add color and sweetness no need to thaw them before using.
  • Mushrooms: Fresh or canned mushrooms work well they provide earthiness to the dish.
  • Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the secret sauce Use low-fat versions for a lighter take without sacrificing creaminess.
  • Milk: A splash of milk keeps everything moist and enhances the overall creaminess of the casserole.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese on top creates that irresistible cheesy crust feel free to mix up cheese varieties
  • Breadcrumbs: For topping, breadcrumbs add crunch and texture contrast against the creamy filling.

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

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray.

Cook the Noodles: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook egg noodles until al dente about 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally until they reach that perfect chewy state, then drain and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of olive oil and sauté chopped mushrooms until they’re soft and slightly caramelized about 5 minutes. The earthy aroma will fill your kitchen

Mix Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked noodles, drained tuna, sautéed mushrooms, frozen peas, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well coated in that luscious sauce.

Add Cheese and Breadcrumbs: Transfer the mixture into your greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top followed by breadcrumbs for that crunchy finish. Who doesn’t love texture?

Bake Until Golden Brown: Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. You’ll know it’s done when you can see those delicious oozy cheese layers peeking through

Now let your mouth water as you remove this beauty from the oven Serve hot alongside a fresh garden salad to balance out those rich flavors.

So there you have it the quintessential Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole that transforms any meal into something special. It tells stories of laughter shared over dinner tables while delivering comforting flavors with every bite. Enjoy every moment spent making this dish as much as you will savor eating it Happy cooking

You Must Know

  • This Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole not only satisfies cravings but also brings back nostalgic memories
  • The creamy texture and delightful flavors make it a perfect comfort food for warm evenings, reminding you of family gatherings and easy weeknight dinners

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by boiling your noodles while you mix the creamy sauce. This multitasking approach saves time and ensures everything is ready simultaneously for optimal flavor blending.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out tuna for shredded chicken or add veggies like peas or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. This dish is versatile enough to accommodate your pantry staples.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that creamy goodness stays intact.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For a truly unforgettable Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole, pay attention to ingredient quality
  • Fresh herbs can elevate the dish immensely while adding a vibrant touch
  • A sprinkle of cheese on top before baking adds a delightful golden crust, making each bite irresistible

My first attempt at this casserole ended with my friends declaring me their new favorite chef. Who knew canned tuna could bring such joy? It became a staple at every potluck afterward

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use fresh vegetables in my Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole?

Absolutely Fresh veggies like broccoli or spinach work wonderfully to enhance flavor and nutrition.

How can I make my casserole creamier?

Consider adding more cream or sour cream to achieve that rich, velvety texture everyone loves.

What can I use instead of tuna in this recipe?

Shredded chicken or salmon are excellent alternatives if you’re looking for something different or have dietary restrictions.

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Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole


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  • Author: Ann Foster
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

Enjoy a taste of nostalgia with this Summer Tuna Noodle Casserole, combining creamy flavors and vibrant colors that make it perfect for any summer gathering. Tender egg noodles merge harmoniously with flavorful tuna, earthy mushrooms, and sweet peas, all topped with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb crust. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience that transports you back to cherished family moments.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz egg noodles
  • 1 can (12 oz) canned tuna, drained
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup chopped mushrooms (fresh or canned)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the egg noodles in boiling salted water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, sauté chopped mushrooms in olive oil over medium heat until soft, around 5 minutes.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, tuna, sautéed mushrooms, frozen peas, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  5. Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese followed by breadcrumbs.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

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Ann Foster

Chef & Blogger

Hi, I’m Ann Foster! Born and raised in California’s Central Valley, I found my passion for cooking in my grandmother’s kitchen. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, I traveled across the country exploring new flavors and cooking techniques. This website is my passion project—where I share delicious recipes meant to bring people together, one meal at a time. Welcome to my culinary journey!

Chef Ann