Cheesy Tuna Casserole with Peas
Cheesy Tuna Casserole with Peas is a classic for a reason – it’s incredibly comforting and a perfect cheap dinner recipe. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare this satisfying meal that brings warmth to any table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Canned Tuna: Use tuna packed in water for a lighter option, or oil for richer flavor.
- C Egg Noodles: Any short pasta like macaroni or rotini works well.
- Canned Cream of Mushroom Soup: Cream of celery or chicken soup can be used in a pinch.
- Frozen Peas: Canned peas or mixed vegetables are good alternatives.
- Cheddar Cheese: Monterey Jack or Colby cheese will also melt beautifully.
- Breadcrumbs: Crushed crackers or even finely ground cornflakes offer a crunchy topping.
Ingredients:
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 (5 ounce) can tuna in water, drained
- 1 1/2 cups frozen peas
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 380 calories
- Tools Needed: 9×13 inch baking dish, large mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Combine the Base Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Stir in the drained tuna, frozen peas, cooked egg noodles, 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. This helps ensure everything cooks consistently.
4. Add the Topping
Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese over the casserole, followed by the breadcrumbs. The cheese will melt beautifully, and the breadcrumbs will crisp up.
5. Bake Until Golden
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Let it stand for a few minutes before serving.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mix for some heat.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in some finely chopped carrots or celery with the peas.
- Herbaceous: Mix in a teaspoon of dried parsley or chives for extra flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Cheesy Tuna Casserole with Peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave until heated through, or cover the casserole dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole (without the breadcrumb topping) up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Add the breadcrumbs just before baking.
Q: What kind of noodles are best for tuna casserole?
A: Egg noodles are traditional, but any short pasta like elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne works wonderfully.
Q: How do I make this casserole creamier?
A: You can add an extra splash of milk or a spoonful of cream cheese to the mixture for a richer, creamier texture.
Q: Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely! If using fresh peas, you might want to blanch them quickly before adding them to the casserole to ensure they cook through.
Q: Is this a good cheap dinner recipe for meal prepping?
A: Yes, it reheats well and makes for excellent leftovers, making it a perfect cheap dinner recipe for meal prepping throughout the week.
Q: My casserole topping isn’t crispy. What can I do?
A: For an extra-crispy topping, you can broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the very end of baking, watching it closely to prevent burning.
