Quick Crockpot Tuna Noodle Casserole

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🥘 Quick Crockpot Tuna Noodle Casserole

Description

This Quick Crockpot Tuna Noodle Casserole is a comforting, creamy classic made effortlessly in the slow cooker. Tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, and a rich, savory sauce come together for a warm, nostalgic meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy family dinners. Minimal prep, maximum comfort.

⏱️ Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 2–3 hours on LOW (or 1–1½ hours on HIGH)

  • Total Time: About 2½–3 hours

🍴 Servings

Serves: 6

🛒 Ingredients

  • 12 oz egg noodles, uncooked

  • 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained (albacore or chunk light)

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

  • 1 cup milk

  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • ½ cup frozen peas (optional)

  • ½ cup diced onion (optional)

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping)

  • 1 tbsp melted butter (for topping, optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker.

  2. Layer Ingredients: Add uncooked egg noodles, tuna, soup, milk, cheese, peas, onion, and seasonings.

  3. Mix Well: Gently stir until everything is evenly combined and noodles are mostly submerged.

  4. Cook:

    • LOW: 2–3 hours

    • HIGH: 1–1½ hours
      Stir once halfway if possible.

  5. Optional Topping: Mix crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle on top during the last 20 minutes.

  6. Serve: Once noodles are tender and sauce is creamy, serve hot.

📝 Notes

  • If noodles absorb too much liquid, stir in an extra ¼–½ cup milk before serving.

  • For a creamier texture, add 2–3 tablespoons cream cheese.

  • This recipe works best in a 4–6 quart slow cooker.

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Don’t overcook: Overcooking can make noodles mushy.

  • Drain tuna well to avoid excess liquid.

  • Cheese last option: For extra meltiness, stir in half the cheese near the end.

  • Customize veggies: Corn, carrots, or mushrooms work great.

🧠 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: ~380

  • Protein: ~22g

  • Carbohydrates: ~34g

  • Fat: ~17g

  • Fiber: ~2g

  • Sodium: ~680mg

Values vary based on brands and add-ins.

🌟 Benefits

  • High in Protein: Tuna provides lean protein for muscle support.

  • Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples.

  • Time-Saving: Crockpot does the work.

  • Comfort Food: Warm, filling, and family-friendly.

  • Customizable: Easy to adapt for picky eaters.

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I use canned chicken instead of tuna?
A: Yes! Canned or cooked shredded chicken works perfectly.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Absolutely—use gluten-free noodles and soup.

Q: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
A: Yes, assemble ingredients and refrigerate up to 12 hours before cooking.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Freezing is possible, but the noodle texture may soften after reheating.

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