If you have extra tuna noodle casserole, can you freeze it? The answer may surprise you! Keep reading to find out whether you should put your leftover casserole in the freezer.
Quick Answer
Yes, you can freeze tuna noodle casserole. The impacts on taste and texture will be minimal, and it should last for 2-3 months.
Can You Freeze Tuna Noodle Casserole?
There is some debate on whether or not you can freeze tuna noodle casserole. Some say that the dish will lose its flavor and texture if frozen, while others maintain that it freezes well and tastes just as good as when it is fresh. The best way to find out is to try freezing a small portion of your casserole and see how it turns out.
If you do decide to freeze your tuna noodle casserole, be aware that it may impact the taste and texture of the dish. Frozen dishes often have a different texture than fresh dishes, so your casserole may not be quite as creamy or have the same flavor profile when you thaw it out. However, if you’re careful to not overcook it when you reheat it, the dish should still be enjoyable.
How To Freeze Tuna Noodle Casserole?
To freeze tuna noodle casserole, you will need to prepare it according to your recipe and then cool it completely. Once it is cooled, you can pack it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Be sure to label and date the containers or bags so that you know what is in them and when they were frozen.
To thaw tuna noodle casserole, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can also place the container of casserole in a bowl of cold water and let it sit for about 30 minutes, changing the water every 10 minutes. When ready to eat, reheat the casserole in a 350 degree F oven for about 15 minutes.
Precautions to Take When Freezing Tuna Noodle Casserole
There are a few key precautions to take when freezing tuna noodle casserole. The first step is to make sure the dish is fully cooled before freezing. Packaging the casserole in airtight containers is also important, as it will help to prevent freezer burn. Finally, make sure to label the containers with the date so you can keep track of how long they have been in the freezer.
How To Thaw Frozen Tuna Noodle Casserole
To thaw frozen Tuna Noodle Casserole, you can either leave it in the fridge overnight or defrost it in the microwave. If you’re using the microwave, make sure to cook it immediately after thawing. Here are the steps:
1. Move the frozen casserole from the freezer to the fridge 24 hours before you plan to eat it.
2. When ready to eat, remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
3. Cook according to recipe instructions.
How Long Does Tuna Noodle Casserole Last (Stays Fresh) Outside at Room Temperature?
If you’re keeping your tuna noodle casserole at room temperature, it will stay fresh for about two hours. After that, it’s best to refrigerate it or freeze it.
How Long Does Tuna Noodle Casserole Last (Stays Fresh) in the Fridge?
Since tuna noodle casserole contains dairy and eggs, it will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge. Tuna casserole is a high-acid food, so it is relatively safe from bacteria growth. However, to be on the safe side, I would recommend discarding any leftovers after 3 days.
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Tuna Noodle Casserole?
Ideas, list:
-Turn it into a casserole: mix in an egg, some bread crumbs, and/or cheese for extra binding and flavor.
-Add it to a wrap or sandwich.
-Top a salad with it.
-Stuff it into a pita pocket.
-Serve it on top of some brown rice or quinoa.
-Create a quick tuna noodle soup by adding broth, veggies, and/or noodles to the leftover casserole ingredients.
