Tuna Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the whole family. Reminiscent of simpler times, this dish combines the savory flavors of tuna, cream of mushroom soup, and noodles, all nestled under a golden crust. Perfect for a cozy evening indoors or a potluck gathering with friends, the Tuna Casserole holds a special place in the heart of many home cooks.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz of dried egg noodles
- 2 cans (5 oz each) of tuna, drained and flaked
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of frozen peas
- 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup of crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step by Step Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions, until they are al dente. Drain them and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained flaked tuna, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, grated cheddar cheese, frozen peas, and chopped onion. Mix well and season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Next, gently fold in the cooked egg noodles, ensuring they are well incorporated with the tuna mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top the casserole with crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs to create a delicious, crispy crust.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
History and Curiosities:
The origin of the Tuna Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup dates back to the 1930s, during the Great Depression in the United States. Families had to stretch their budgets and make the most of the ingredients available to them at the time. As a result, the Tuna Casserole became a staple in many households due to its affordability and resourceful use of simple pantry items like canned tuna, condensed soups, and egg noodles.
The Tuna Casserole further increased in popularity during the 1950s, as it embodied the ideal convenience food for busy homemakers. The ease of combining readily available ingredients allowed them to provide a wholesome, filling meal on the table with minimal preparation time.
In addition to its historical roots, the Tuna Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup is often considered a quintessential American comfort food that represents warmth, tradition, and love. Many generations have enjoyed this classic dish, resulting in countless variations that have been passed down through the years. Whether you prepare it with potato chips or breadcrumbs, or perhaps add a personal touch, this dish will forever hold a nostalgic charm that brings people together.
