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In the realm of comfort food, few dishes can rival the beloved Tuna Noodle Bake. This cozy casserole combines the rich flavors of tuna, creamy mushroom soup, and sharp cheddar cheese with the heartiness of egg noodles, creating a perfect meal for chilly evenings or family gatherings. The allure of this dish lies not only in its deliciousness but also in its ease of preparation. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that will warm your heart and soul. In this article, we'll explore the delightful recipe for Cozy Tuna Noodle Bake, walking you through each step to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Homestyle Tuna Noodle Casserole with Peas

Discover the warmth of the Cozy Tuna Noodle Bake, a classic comfort food that's perfect for family gatherings or chilly evenings. This simple casserole combines tender egg noodles, creamy mushroom soup, and savory tuna, topped with gooey cheddar cheese. Elevate your meal with nutritional benefits from tuna and peas, while enjoying its ease of preparation. Follow the step-by-step guide to create a heartwarming dish that will delight your loved ones and bring back fond memories of home-cooked meals.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz egg noodles

1 can (15 oz) tuna packed in water, drained

1 cup frozen peas

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

1 cup milk

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for baking.

    Boil the Noodles: In a large pot, add water and a generous amount of salt, then bring it to a rolling boil. Add the egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente, which typically takes about 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander and set aside.

      Mix the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they are perfectly blended and smooth.

        Combine Ingredients: To the sauce mixture, gently fold in the drained tuna and frozen peas, followed by the cooked egg noodles. Stir everything together carefully to ensure an even distribution of ingredients without breaking apart the noodles.

          Cheese It Up: Incorporate 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese into the noodle mixture, folding it in gently to allow it to melt slightly from the residual heat.

            Prepare the Casserole Dish: Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish using olive oil or butter. Pour the noodle mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly to cover the bottom.

              Top with Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese with the breadcrumbs until well combined. Sprinkle this cheesy breadcrumb mixture generously over the top of the casserole for a delightful crunchy texture.

                Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is gloriously golden brown and the edges are bubbly.

                  Garnish and Serve: After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Scoop out servings and enjoy this comforting, homestyle tuna noodle bake while it’s warm!

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6