Kittencal's Easy Tuna or Chicken Noodle Casserole
This is a delicious casserole that can be made using either tuna or 1 1/2 cups or more of cooked cubed chicken or even cooked turkey. For a thinner sauce use 1 cup of milk or half and half instead of 3/4 cup. Prep time includes boiling the egg noodles. If you are not a garlic-lover then you may omit the garlic powder and to zing the flavor up even more add in 1 1/2 tablespoons of lemon juice.
This is a delicious casserole that can be made using either tuna or 1 1/2 cups or more of cooked cubed chicken or even cooked turkey. For a thinner sauce use 1 cup of milk or half and half instead of 3/4 cup. Prep time includes boiling the egg noodles. If you are not a garlic-lover then you may omit the garlic powder and to zing the flavor up even more add in 1 1/2 tablespoons of lemon juice.
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 6 ounces egg noodles
- 1 large celery rib diced
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 small green bell pepper finely chopped
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup undiluted
- 1/2-1 teaspoon garlic powder (or to taste i use 1 teaspoon)
- 3 -4 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese (optiona
- 3/4 cup milk (or can use half-and-half cream)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (can increase to to 3/4 cup)
- 1/4-1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt (or to taste or use white salt)
- 1 small onion finely chopped (can use 2 green onions)
- 1/4 cup pimiento chopped
- 1 can tuna drained and flaked (can add another 3 ounces for a more meatier
- 12 -15 butter flavored crackers broken in pieces (such as ritz crackers)
- Carbohydrate 39.4406139205742 g
- Cholesterol 63.3469616125405 mg
- Fat 12.5366938659579 g
- Fiber 2.41330139243907 g
- Protein 18.4177855815774 g
- Saturated Fat 5.31525906043723 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -6 serving(s) (225g)
- Sodium 681.137599795443 mg
- Sugar 37.0273125281351 g
- Trans Fat 2.24139253226074 g
- Calories 344 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Cook the egg noodles in boiling salted water; drain then toss with 2 tablespoons butter.
- In a large saucepan, mix the undiluted mushroom soup, garlic powder, Parmesan cheese (if using), milk or half and half, sour cream, salt, pepper, chopped onion, pimiento, bell pepper and celery; cook over low heat, stirring frequently for 15 minutes.
- Add in the tuna or chicken; mix to combine.
- Combine the mixture with the cooked egg noodles.
- Transfer to prepared greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle top with the broken Ritz crackers.
- Bake for about 25 minutes.
Kittencal's Easy Tuna or Chicken Noodle Casserole: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy mom, I'm always on the lookout for quick and easy meals that the whole family will enjoy. This Tuna or Chicken Noodle Casserole fits the bill perfectly! It’s incredibly versatile, adaptable to what I have on hand, and always a crowd-pleaser. The creamy mushroom soup base provides a comforting richness, while the tender noodles and your choice of protein (tuna, chicken, or even turkey!) add satisfying substance. It's the kind of dish that warms the soul on a chilly evening, and honestly, the cleanup is a breeze!
What makes this recipe so special is its adaptability. Sometimes I'm craving a lighter meal, so I'll use a full cup of milk instead of the ¾ cup called for, creating a thinner, more delicate sauce. Other times, I want something heartier, and I’ll add extra chicken or even throw in some leftover roasted vegetables for an extra boost of flavor and nutrients. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize it to your taste. A dash of paprika, a sprinkle of thyme, or even a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate this simple dish to new heights. The beauty of this recipe is that it's forgiving; it's hard to mess up, which is a huge plus on a busy weeknight.
The best part? My kids love it! Getting them to eat their vegetables is sometimes a challenge, but cleverly hidden within this creamy, cheesy casserole, the celery, onion, and bell peppers disappear without a fuss. It’s a sneaky way to ensure they’re getting their daily dose of vitamins and minerals. And the Ritz cracker topping? Pure genius! It adds a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the soft noodles and creamy sauce. It's the perfect balance of textures and flavors, guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. I often double the recipe and freeze half for another night, saving me precious time and effort in the future. It reheats beautifully and tastes just as good the second time around.
This casserole is more than just a meal; it's a reminder of simpler times, of cozy evenings spent around the dinner table, sharing laughter and conversation with loved ones. It’s comfort food at its finest, easy to make, and guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone's faces. So, if you're looking for a delicious, versatile, and family-friendly dish that won't break the bank or drain your energy, give Kittencal's Easy Tuna or Chicken Noodle Casserole a try. You won't be disappointed!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add some greens: Stir in a handful of chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the tuna or chicken and add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or white beans for extra protein.
- Use different crackers: Experiment with different types of crackers for variations in flavor and texture.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake when ready to serve.
This recipe is a true testament to the power of simple ingredients and a little bit of love. It's a dish that embodies the spirit of home-cooked meals, bringing warmth, comfort, and happiness to the table. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the magic of this simple yet satisfying casserole.
