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Make Ahead Old-Fashioned Tuna Noodle Casserole

As the chill of autumn descends and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a hearty, homemade meal. One dish that embodies warmth and nostalgia is the classic tuna noodle casserole. This creamy, flavourful recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, and the best part? You can prepare it ahead of time!

The Comfort of Tuna Noodle Casserole

Tuna noodle casserole has long been a staple in British kitchens, beloved for its simplicity, affordability, and the ability to bring the family together around the dinner table. This dish often evokes memories of home-cooked meals, fostering a sense of warmth and comfort. It’s the ideal option for those looking to serve up something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

To create a make-ahead version of this timeless dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 300g egg noodles
• 2 tins (approximately 400g each) of tuna in water, drained
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 300ml creamy mushroom soup (you can use homemade or store-bought)
• 100ml milk
• 150g frozen peas
• 200g grated cheddar cheese
• 75g breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Preparing the Casserole

1. Cook the Noodles: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

3. Combine the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, creamy mushroom soup, milk, frozen peas, sautéed onion and garlic, and half of the grated cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Gently fold in the cooked noodles until everything is thoroughly mixed.

4. Transfer to a Dish: Spoon the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.

5. Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese over the casserole. Then, top with the breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch.

Make Ahead and Bake

If you wish to prepare this casserole in advance, cover it tightly with cling film or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and remove the cling film. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Serving

Once the casserole is ready, allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of colour and a touch of freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some buttery bread rolls to mop up any leftover sauce.

Conclusion

Make ahead old-fashioned tuna noodle casserole is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it also brings a sense of home and heart to the dinner table. Its adaptable nature allows for variations, whether you want to sneak in some extra vegetables, use a different type of pasta, or swap out tuna for chicken or a vegetarian alternative. With this recipe, you can enjoy the flavours of nostalgia while making life a little simpler on busy days. So, gather your loved ones, serve up a generous helping of this comforting delight, and relish the joy of a home-cooked meal.