Golden Crunch Tuna Casserole is a comforting classic with a crispy, cheesy topping and a creamy, flavorful interior. It's a perfect dish for any weeknight dinner or casual gathering, bringing warmth and nostalgia to your kitchen.
Tuna: The star protein that's not only budget-friendly but also packed with nutrients. Choose a good quality canned tuna for the best flavor.
Cream of mushroom soup: Adds a savory, creamy base to the casserole, binding all the ingredients together.
Milk, mayonnaise, and sour cream: These create a rich, velvety sauce that enhances the overall texture and taste of the dish.
Lemon juice: A splash of citrus brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness.
Onion powder and garlic powder: These pantry staples add depth and a mild, aromatic flavor.
Black pepper and salt: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors of all the ingredients.
Egg noodles: The hearty base that holds the casserole together, providing a comforting texture.
Frozen peas: Adds a pop of color and sweetness, complementing the savory flavors.
Chopped celery: Offers a subtle crunch and freshness to balance the creaminess.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the dish, adding a savory, cheesy flavor that’s hard to resist.
Breadcrumbs: Mixed with butter and cheese for a golden, crunchy topping.
Butter: Helps the breadcrumbs achieve a beautiful golden color and rich flavor.
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. If you’re feeling indulgent, serve it with some garlic bread to mop up any leftover creamy sauce. A crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors nicely.
First things first, go ahead and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it's hot and ready by the time your casserole is assembled. Grab a large mixing bowl; we’re going to combine our creamy base here. Add in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Give it all a good mix until it's smooth and well combined.
Next, gently fold in the drained tuna, cooked egg noodles, peas, and chopped celery. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, making sure everything is evenly distributed. Transfer this delicious mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Now on to the topping! In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and the remaining cheddar cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This will give your dish that irresistible golden crunch.
Slide the casserole into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling at the edges. Once out of the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.
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