Savory Tuna and Mushroom Casserole

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 8

This Savory Tuna and Mushroom Casserole is your ultimate comfort food, combining creamy textures with a savory punch. It's a quick and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to prepare with mostly pantry staples.
  • Creamy and satisfying texture with a deliciously crispy top.
  • Perfect for using up leftover ingredients.
  • Family-friendly and adaptable to various tastes.

Ingredients

2 cans (6 oz each) of tuna, drained
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
2 cups cooked egg noodles
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it's nice and hot when you're ready to bake. In a large mixing bowl, blend together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, and onion powder. This mixture will be the creamy base of your casserole.

Next, gently fold in the drained tuna, cooked egg noodles, cheddar cheese, peas, mushrooms, and parsley. Make sure everything is well combined and coated with the creamy mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and give it one last gentle stir.

Now, transfer this mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure it cooks uniformly. In a small pan, melt the butter over medium heat and toss in the breadcrumbs until they're nicely coated. This step is quick, so keep an eye on it!

Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole. This is what gives it that golden, crispy finish. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes, or until you see that beautiful golden brown and bubbly top. Once done, allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set a little, making it easier to serve.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use an oven-safe skillet for mixing and baking to save on dishes.
  • Swap out the cheddar with Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different flavor.
  • For a bit more crunch, add sliced almonds to the breadcrumb topping.
  • If you're short on time, canned mushrooms work as a substitute for fresh ones.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, serve alongside crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the creamy sauce. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish's richness nicely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the breadcrumb topping before baking.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Sure! Use gluten-free noodles and breadcrumbs to adapt the recipe.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely, just ensure it's cooled completely before freezing in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Ingredients Explained

The star of the dish, tuna, provides a hearty, protein-packed foundation. The cream of mushroom soup adds a depth of flavor and creaminess, harmonizing beautifully with the sour cream for a tangy edge. Seasonings like garlic powder and onion powder enhance the overall taste profile, while egg noodles give it body and texture. A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese melts into the dish, adding richness. The addition of frozen peas and sliced mushrooms introduces a fresh element, and chopped fresh parsley brings a burst of color and herby notes. Topping with breadcrumbs and unsalted butter creates a delightful crunch. Don't forget a pinch of salt and pepper to season everything just right.

Simplified Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
3. Stir in the drained tuna, cooked egg noodles, shredded cheddar cheese, frozen peas, sliced mushrooms, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
5. In a small pan, melt the butter and toss in the breadcrumbs until lightly coated.
6. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs over the casserole.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
8. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

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