There’s something about a warm, cozy bowl of easy tuna noodle casserole with cream cheese that just feels like a hug on a plate. Seriously, it’s the ultimate comfort food! This dish is not just simple to make, but it comes together in a flash—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you whip this up, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. The creamy goodness, the tender noodles, and the delightful pops of peas make every bite a joy. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients for Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Cream Cheese
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 can (12 oz) tuna, drained and flaked
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup frozen peas, no need to thaw
- 1/2 cup milk, any kind works
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping if you like
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Cream Cheese
Alright, let’s get cooking! This step-by-step guide will help you whip up that delicious easy tuna noodle casserole with cream cheese effortlessly. Just follow along, and soon you’ll have a bubbling dish of comfort ready to enjoy!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly bubbly and delicious.
Step 2: Cook Egg Noodles
While the oven is heating up, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your egg noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Once done, don’t forget to drain them well! You want to get rid of any excess water before mixing them in.
Step 3: Mix Cream Cheese and Milk
In a large bowl, add your softened cream cheese and milk. Using a spatula or a whisk, mix them together until you have a nice, smooth consistency. Softening the cream cheese is key here; it makes everything blend so much easier and creamier!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now, it’s time to fold in the fun stuff! Gently add the drained tuna, frozen peas, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper into the cream cheese mixture. Stir until everything is just combined—no need to overmix!
Step 5: Add Noodles
Next, toss in those cooked noodles and give it a good mix. Make sure everything is evenly coated with that creamy goodness. Every noodle deserves some love!
Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish
Grab a greased baking dish and pour in your noodle mixture. Spread it out evenly so every bite has that delicious filling. If you love a cheesy top, sprinkle some extra cheddar cheese on top now!
Step 7: Bake
Pop your casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden. Just try not to drool while you wait!
Tips for Success
To take your easy tuna noodle casserole with cream cheese to the next level, here are a few tips that I always swear by! First up, if you want a delightful crunch on top, consider adding some breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter before baking. It adds a lovely texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. You can also get creative with veggies! Throw in some chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a handful of spinach for extra flavor and color. And don’t shy away from experimenting with different cheeses—think fontina or mozzarella for a gooey twist. Lastly, if you have any leftover cooked chicken or even shrimp, toss those in for a fun protein boost. Happy cooking!
Variations of Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Cream Cheese
If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, there are so many fun variations for this easy tuna noodle casserole with cream cheese! For a twist on flavor, try swapping out the tuna for shredded chicken or even some cooked shrimp—both options bring a delightful change. You could also play with the veggies; adding diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or even some fresh spinach can really elevate the taste and add some color to your dish.
Feeling adventurous? How about a kick of spice? A dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños can give your casserole a zesty flair! And for those cheese lovers out there, try mixing in different cheeses like pepper jack for a little heat or a sprinkle of parmesan for that extra richness. The possibilities are endless, so have fun with it and make it your own!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to comfort food, knowing the nutritional content can help you enjoy it even more! Each serving of this easy tuna noodle casserole with cream cheese (about 1/4 of the casserole) packs a satisfying punch with approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keep in mind that these values may vary based on the specific ingredients you choose, like the type of cheese or the brand of tuna you use. But no matter what, you’re in for a delicious, hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy!
FAQ Section
Got questions about this easy tuna noodle casserole with cream cheese? I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get:
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While I love egg noodles for their texture, you can easily swap them for other pasta shapes like rotini or penne. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions!
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Just prepare the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. It’s a lifesaver for busy nights!
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. They’ll give a nice creaminess, but keep in mind the flavor might change slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last about 3-4 days, and you can easily reheat them in the microwave or oven!
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to cool it completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It should stay good for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before baking!
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Chicken Pasta or Cheesy Pasta Casserole.
Print
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Cream Cheese Bliss
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A simple and comforting tuna noodle casserole with cream cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 can (12 oz) tuna, drained
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; drain.
- In a large bowl, mix cream cheese and milk until smooth.
- Add tuna, peas, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
- Add cooked noodles and mix well.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Top with cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly.
Notes
- For a crunchier topping, add breadcrumbs.
- Feel free to add other vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the casserole
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: easy tuna noodle casserole, cream cheese casserole, tuna casserole
