Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

Do you remember your mom or grandma making a tuna casserole dish for dinner? It was usually one of their go-to recipes on busy nights.

Well, I’m here to tell you that this dish is not only a nostalgic classic American dish, but it’s also really good! And, the best part is that it’s easy to make and super budget-friendly.

You just need a few simple ingredients, and in no time, you’ll have a tasty meal on the table.

So, next time you’re stuck for dinner ideas, give tuna casserole a try! You won’t be disappointed.

The Best Comfort Food

Cheesy tuna noodle casserole is pure comfort food.

It’s such a great recipe, and it’s definitely one of our favorite recipes around here.

The recipe can be versatile, as well. You can add peas, carrots, butter beans, or your favorite veggie to the mix.

What Ingredients Are Needed For Tuna Casserole

• Egg noodles
• Condensed cream of mushroom soup
• Condensed cream of cheddar cheese soup
• Cooked peas
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Canned tuna, drained
• Milk
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Melted butter
• Salt and black pepper

Full printable recipe with measurements and instructions listed at the bottom of the post in the recipe card.

How To Make Cheesy Tuna Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 350-degrees. Grease a 9-inch by 13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the noodles according to package directions and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, add the drained tuna, mushroom and cheese soup, cooked peas, salt, pepper, milk, and cheddar cheese and mix well.
4. Next, add the noodles and mix well.
5. Spread the casserole ingredients into the baking dish.
6. Next, add the breadcrumbs to a small bowl and pour the melted butter over the top. Mix well and spread over the casserole.
7. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Drain the liquid off of your tuna cans and add the tuna to a large mixing bowl.

You can use your favorite flaky tuna. I had 12 ounce can of chunk light tuna packed in water and a six ounce can of solid white albacore tuna.

Next, add the mushroom soup.

I get a lot of readers that don’t like mushroom canned soup. You have several alternatives. You can use cheddar cheese soup, cream of chicken soup, or cream of celery soup instead of the mushroom.

Next, add the cream of cheddar cheese soup.

Add the peas, salt, and pepper.

I used canned peas, but you can use frozen as well.

Peas are usually the vegetable used in tuna casserole, but if you like something else, feel free to use that.

Options include broccoli, green onions, cooked carrots, butter beans, or just about anything.

Next, add the shredded cheese to the bowl and mix well.

Pour the milk into the bowl and mix.

The milk is going to help keep the casserole dish from getting too dry.

Add the cooked noodles to the bowl and mix well.

Spread the tuna mixture into the baking dish and set aside.

I’m a big believer in using things in your pantry. So, if you don’t have egg noodles, you don’t have to run out to get them. Just use elbow macaroni, penne pasta, or whatever you have on hand.

I used medium egg noodles for this recipe, but use what you’ve got.

In a small bowl, add the breadcrumbs. Melt the butter and pour it over the breadcrumbs.

I used Panko bread crumbs because they come out crunchier. But, you can use whatever type of breadcrumbs you like.

You can also sprinkle a little bit of grated parmesan cheese or garlic powder in there for extra flavor.

Some people like to crush up Ritz Crackers or potato chips instead of breadcrumbs. Those are both great options. The Ritz will make the dish taste more buttery, and the chips will add a saltier flavor.

Either way, it will be delicious!

Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the tuna casserole and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

If you don’t eat all of the cheesy tuna noodle casserole recipe, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

More Classic Recipes and Easy Dinner Ideas

• Crock Pot Italian chicken
• 5-Ingredient ground beef casserole
• Easy crack chicken casserole
• Mexican ground beef casserole
• Slow cooker cheesy chicken homemade casserole

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe

I bet you thought that tuna casserole was just an American classic. Well, it’s true!

But there are some other reasons why this dish should be on your dinner table more often.

It’s easy to make and has a lot of different variations for how you can change the flavor profile by adding in spices or even switching up what kind of canned tuna is used (white albacore vs. light).

And don’t forget about all those yummy veggies like broccoli, carrots, peas–they’re great additions too.

It is also very inexpensive to make.

So next time you find yourself looking at the same old recipes, again and again, take my advice and give this classic dish a try for dinner tonight. You won’t regret it.

Sides To Serve With The Simple Tuna Casserole

• Homemade dinner rolls
• Zucchini casserole
• Creamed corn recipe
• Green beans and bacon

Variations for Tuna Noodle Casserole

• To add a twist to the classic tuna noodle casserole, consider integrating a creamy sauce made with a base of chicken broth and whole milk. This sauce, thickened with all-purpose flour, ensures a creamy consistency that pairs well with al dente rotini pasta or tender egg noodles. Sautéing a finely chopped yellow onion in olive oil over medium heat can add a lot of flavor. Adding sour cream gives an extra layer of creaminess, while a dash of lemon zest can enhance the overall zestiness of the dish.
• If you’re working on busy weeknights and are looking for easy recipes, this tuna casserole is the perfect meal. Prepare it in a Dutch oven or a prepared casserole dish, then cover with aluminum foil as the casserole bakes to perfection. For an even more indulgent touch, consider adding French fried onions which add a delightful crunch.

Homemade tuna noodle casserole, made from cans of tuna and a few main ingredients, is a classic comfort food that brings warmth to any table.

Whether you’re following the best tuna noodle casserole recipe or seeking a healthy variation, remember to store any leftovers in the refrigerator, ensuring a delightful meal for the next day.