If you’re craving a comforting, nostalgic dish that comes together quickly, this Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender egg noodles wrapped in a creamy, cheesy sauce, punctuated by sweet bursts of peas and hearty flakes of tuna, all crowned with a crispy golden breadcrumb topping. It’s a simple, homey meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate and makes for an effortless weeknight dinner or potluck favorite. Plus, it’s packed with flavor and textures that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward pantry staples and fresh touches that combine to create the perfect harmony of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy textures. Each item plays a vital role, from the smooth richness of the cream of mushroom soup to the pleasantly chewy bite of the egg noodles.
- Egg noodles (12 oz): The soft yet sturdy base that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- Tuna in water (2 cans, 5 oz each): Provides the satisfying protein and mild seafood flavor essential to the dish.
- Cream of mushroom soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): The secret weapon for a creamy, savory sauce that keeps everything moist.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Lightens the sauce and helps bind all the flavors together smoothly.
- Frozen peas (1 cup): Pops of color and sweetness to brighten every bite.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Adds melty richness and a slightly sharp flavor to contrast the mellow peas and tuna.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Gives a tangy creaminess that elevates the casserole’s taste complexity.
- Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Brings subtle warmth and depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring all the ingredients together.
- Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Creates that irresistibly crunchy topping which contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
- Butter, melted (2 tbsp): Used to toast the breadcrumbs and add a golden finish.
- Optional – Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and pretty garnish.
How to Make Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Noodles
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure nothing sticks and your casserole pulls out easily once baked. While the oven warms, cook the egg noodles according to the package directions but aim for al dente—this means tender yet firm to the bite—so they hold up well during baking. Drain and set them aside.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Tuna Filling
Grab a large bowl and combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, frozen peas, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Stir everything gently until you have a luscious, well-blended mixture that promises a perfect balance of flavors and textures in every scoop.
Step 3: Combine Noodles and Sauce
Add the cooked egg noodles to your creamy tuna mixture. Carefully toss everything together so each noodle is beautifully coated with the rich sauce, but without breaking them up. This step ensures every spoonful is loaded with deliciousness.
Step 4: Assemble and Add the Crunch
Pour the noodle and tuna mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this buttery breadcrumb topping generously over the casserole. This topping will bake into a crispy crust that gives the dish delightful contrast.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole for 20 to 25 minutes, watching for bubbling sauce and golden-brown breadcrumbs. The oven heat melds the flavors and creates that inviting crispy top everyone loves. Once baked, let the casserole rest for a few minutes, allowing it to set slightly and making serving easier.
How to Serve Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled over the top can add a lovely burst of color and a subtle herbal freshness that brightens the rich casserole. You can also consider a light sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese before serving for an ooey-gooey finish.
Side Dishes
This Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to balance its richness. Garlic bread or crusty rolls also make great companions for sopping up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
To elevate this comforting classic, try serving it in individual ramekins for a charming personal touch. You could also layer it with sliced tomatoes or a handful of sautéed mushrooms for added depth. Adding a drizzle of hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon can provide a surprising kick that brightens the dish beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The casserole should stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, letting you enjoy quick meals throughout the week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes very well. For best results, assemble but do not bake. Wrap the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions into freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the top crisps back up, typically 15 to 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual servings but note the topping may soften. You can add fresh breadcrumbs and a quick broil to regain crispness if desired.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and offer the perfect texture, other pasta shapes like rotini, shells, or penne can work well too. Just make sure to cook them al dente so they don’t become mushy during baking.
Is there a dairy-free version of this casserole?
Yes, you can swap the sour cream and cheddar cheese for dairy-free alternatives such as plant-based sour cream and vegan cheese. Also, choose a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup or make your own sauce using mushrooms and dairy-free milk.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add veggies like diced carrots, mushrooms, corn, or bell peppers. Lightly sauté these before mixing them in to enhance their flavor and texture in the casserole.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
You can make a simple substitute by mixing a roux (butter and flour) with milk and adding sautéed mushrooms for flavor. This homemade version is fresh and customizable to your taste.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free egg noodles and gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep the dish free of gluten. Also, double-check your canned soup to ensure it’s gluten-free, as some brands may contain wheat-based thickeners.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that delivers comfort, flavor, and convenience all in one. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or bringing it to a family gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a warm, cheesy, nostalgic meal that feels like home with every bite.
Print
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a comforting and classic family dish combining tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, creamy mushroom soup, and cheesy goodness, topped with crispy buttery breadcrumbs for a satisfying baked meal ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook Noodles: Boil the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente, then drain them thoroughly and set aside.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, frozen peas, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture well until thoroughly blended.
- Toss Noodles: Add the cooked egg noodles to the tuna mixture and gently toss to coat the noodles evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the combined noodle mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a crunchy finish.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it is hot and bubbling and the breadcrumb topping turns golden brown.
- Rest and Garnish: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to set. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Use al dente noodles to prevent the casserole from becoming too mushy after baking.
- Substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of chicken for a different flavor profile.
- For a crunchy topping alternative, use crushed potato chips or fried onions instead of breadcrumbs.
- Fresh or frozen peas can be used; no need to thaw if using frozen.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
