Looking for a quick, hearty dinner the whole family will love? This easy-to-make tuna casserole recipe is creamy, flavorful, and topped with the perfect golden, crunchy crust. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or looking to whip up a cozy meal between a busy schedule, this casserole is your fail-safe option.
Read on for step-by-step instructions, tips to customize the dish, and everything you need to know to make the best tuna casserole right in your own kitchen.
Why Tuna Casserole?
Tuna casserole has long been a staple in American households, and for good reason. It’s simple, comforting, and uses pantry staples, making it ideal for busy families or anyone craving a nostalgic dish. Plus, it’s easy to adapt based on what you have on hand!
This version of tuna casserole is elevated with a creamy sauce, al dente noodles, and a crunchy topping that brings everything together.
What You’ll Need
Gather your ingredients to make this crowd-pleaser with minimal fuss.
Ingredients for the Casserole
- Egg noodles – 8 oz (about half a bag)
- Canned tuna – 2 cans, drained (water-packed or oil-packed, your choice)
- Cream of mushroom soup – 1 can (10.5 oz)
- Milk – 1 cup
- Frozen peas – 1 cup (thawed)
- Shredded cheddar cheese – 2 cups, divided
- Onion – 1 small, finely chopped (optional for extra flavor)
- Butter or olive oil – 1 tablespoon
Ingredients for the Topping
- Breadcrumbs – ½ cup
- Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup, grated
- Butter – 2 tablespoons, melted
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven & Cook Your Pasta
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles until just al dente. This usually takes about 8 minutes. Drain and set the noodles aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Filling
While the noodles cook, heat butter (or olive oil) in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
Next, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk in a large bowl. Mix until smooth. Stir in the tuna, thawed peas, sautéed onions, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, and cooked noodles. Mix everything gently to avoid breaking the noodles.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the tuna mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.
Step 4: Make the Crunchy Topping
Combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter in a small bowl. Toss until the mixture resembles wet sand. Evenly sprinkle the topping over the casserole.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden and crispy. Once bubbling and ready, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes before digging in.
Pro Tips for the Best Tuna Casserole
Take your tuna casserole to the next level with these expert tips!
Use High-Quality Tuna
Opt for good-quality canned tuna, as it directly impacts the flavor. Solid white albacore works well, but chunk light tuna offers a great, budget-friendly option.
Swap Ingredients to Your Taste
- Protein Alternatives: Not a fan of tuna? Swap it for canned chicken or fresh cooked salmon.
- Vegetable Additions: Add in mushrooms, diced carrots, or spinach for extra veggies.
- Cheese Fun: Mix it up with gruyere or mozzarella if cheddar isn’t your favorite.
Make Ahead for Busy Nights
Tuna casserole can be prepped ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply assemble the dish (except for the topping), cover it tightly, and bake when ready. Don’t forget to add the topping right before baking for maximum crunch!
Freeze for Later
Tuna casserole freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Wrap the entire dish tightly in foil before freezing, and bake straight from the freezer at 375°F for about 45 minutes (add the topping in the last 15 minutes).
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Here’s why this tuna casserole is bound to become a family favorite:
- Quick & Easy: Comes together in just under 45 minutes.
- Budget-Friendly: Made almost entirely of pantry staples.
- Kid-Approved: Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting.
- Customizable: Easily tailored to suit your family’s preferences.
Serve & Enjoy
Pair this classic dish with a fresh side salad or some crusty bread, and you have a balanced meal. Whether it’s for a weekday dinner, potluck, or cold-weather comfort food, this tuna casserole always hits the spot.
Share Your Tuna Casserole Success!
We’d love to see how your dish turns out! Snap a photo of your creation and tag us on social media using #BestTunaCasserole.
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