Get ready to dive into the comforting embrace of this Tuna Casserole Recipe, the kind of dish that instantly brings warmth to the kitchen and grins to the dinner table. This classic casserole blends tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, creamy mushroom soup, sweet green peas, and gooey cheddar beneath a crispy, buttery cracker topping. It’s as simple as it is satisfying, making for an easy weeknight meal people request again and again. Whether you remember this from childhood or you’re searching for a new family favorite, this Tuna Casserole Recipe will win your heart and fill your home with delicious aromas.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Tuna Casserole Recipe has an important job to do, whether it’s adding flavor, creating that signature creamy texture, or contributing to the irresistible golden topping. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters.
- Egg noodles (12 oz, cooked and drained): These classic egg noodles are perfectly tender and catch every bit of sauce, making each bite extra comforting.
- Tuna (2 cans, 5 oz each, drained and flaked): The star of the show! Tuna brings protein and that satisfying savory taste that makes this casserole so filling.
- Cream of mushroom soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): The rich and creamy binder that ties everything together—plus it’s the secret behind that luscious texture.
- Frozen peas (1 cup): Sweet, juicy pops of green brighten up each bite and add color to the dish.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melty, gooey sharp cheddar adds extra flavor and creates the dreamiest cheesy interior.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Softens the sauce and gives the casserole that creamy, pourable consistency.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds a subtle tang that keeps all the flavors balanced and the sauce silky smooth.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): A touch of garlic deepens the overall savoriness without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Brings gentle onion flavor throughout the casserole, enhancing every forkful.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Just enough to elevate all the flavors without going overboard—season to your taste!
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A little bit of pepper adds warmth and depth to the creamy sauce.
- Crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs (1 cup): The secret to that crunchy, golden topping everyone fights for.
- Butter, melted (2 tablespoons): Tossed with the topping, butter gives a toasty richness you can see and taste.
How to Make Tuna Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a bit of butter. Having everything ready to go means you can assemble and bake with no last-minute scrambling.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained egg noodles, flaked tuna, cream of mushroom soup, frozen peas, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good stir—this is where the magic starts! You want everything well mixed so every bite is loaded with flavor and creamy goodness.
Step 3: Transfer to the Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly so the top is smooth. This simple step helps the casserole bake evenly and makes it easy to add your delicious topping.
Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, mix the crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter until you’ve got buttery, golden crumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over your casserole—this topping is the irresistible finishing touch!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. Let it sit for about 5 minutes after baking so it’s easier to serve and enjoy.
How to Serve Tuna Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Add a flourish of fresh chopped parsley or dill over the top right before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor. If you like a bit more bite, a light dusting of paprika or a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar on top while it’s still piping hot can make each serving feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This Tuna Casserole Recipe is truly a meal on its own, but pairing it with a bright side salad, steamed green beans, or some roasted vegetables elevates dinner to a whole new level. For extra comfort on chilly nights, serve with warm dinner rolls or simple garlic bread.
Creative Ways to Present
For potlucks or parties, spoon the casserole into individual ramekins for adorable, personalized portions everyone loves. Or, bake it in a round baking dish for a cozy, rustic look. Top with some crispy fried onions or herbed breadcrumbs for an elegant twist that turns this classic into a showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Tuna Casserole Recipe (lucky you!), simply let the casserole cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It tastes just as delicious, maybe even better, the next day!
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble the dish as instructed but stop before baking—cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as usual, adding an extra 10 minutes if needed to heat through.
Reheating
To reheat, scoop single portions into a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium until warm. For larger amounts, cover the baking dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until the casserole is bubbling again. If the topping needs crisping, uncover for the last few minutes.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic, feel free to swap in rotini, penne, or even macaroni if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to cook them al dente so they hold up in the sauce.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a different flavor, cream of celery or cream of chicken soup both work wonderfully in this Tuna Casserole Recipe. You can also make a homemade white sauce if you’d like a from-scratch touch.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! There are great gluten-free egg noodles and gluten-free breadcrumbs available now. Make sure to also use a gluten-free condensed soup, and you’ll have a casserole everyone can enjoy.
How can I add more veggies to the casserole?
Sautéed mushrooms, chopped onions, diced bell peppers, or even broccoli florets mix in easily. Just be sure to cook firmer vegetables before adding them so they soften and blend seamlessly with the casserole.
Can I prep the Tuna Casserole Recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! Assemble everything up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, sprinkle on the topping and bake—a perfect make-ahead dinner.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a classic family favorite that never disappoints, this Tuna Casserole Recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. It’s cozy, easy, and irresistibly creamy with a satisfyingly crispy topping. Give it a try, and you just might find yourself making extra for leftovers!
Print
Tuna Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this classic Tuna Casserole recipe. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
Noodles:
- 12 oz egg noodles, cooked and drained
Tuna Mixture:
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained and flaked
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping:
- 1 cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the noodles, tuna, soup, peas, cheese, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Transfer to baking dish: Spread the mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the topping: Mix the crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use cream of celery or chicken soup for variation.
- Enhance with sautéed mushrooms or onions for added flavor and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 740 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
