I’m excited to share my Classic Tuna Casserole recipe with you! This isn’t just a meal — it’s warm, creamy, and comforting, the kind of dish that instantly makes you feel at home. Picture tender egg noodles mixed with flaky tuna, sweet peas, and a rich, cheesy sauce, all topped with a crunchy, golden breadcrumb crust. It’s quick, family-friendly, and perfect for both busy weeknights and cozy weekends.
Level: Easy
Total Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
I still remember the first time I made this Classic Tuna Casserole for my family — it disappeared within minutes, and everyone went back for seconds. It’s one of those nostalgic recipes that brings back childhood memories of cozy dinners around the table.
What I love about this casserole is its simplicity. There’s nothing fancy here, just everyday pantry ingredients coming together to create a creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying dish. The tuna adds a savory richness, the peas bring a little pop of sweetness, and the crispy breadcrumb topping gives each bite the perfect crunch.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, feeding a hungry family, or bringing a dish to a potluck, this recipe is guaranteed to make everyone happy.
Description
This Classic Tuna Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Here’s why it works so well:
• Tender egg noodles that stay soft but never mushy
• Flaky canned tuna for a rich, savory flavor
• Cream of mushroom soup as the creamy base
• Sharp cheddar cheese for that gooey, cheesy goodness
• Frozen peas for color, sweetness, and freshness
• Golden breadcrumbs on top for a satisfying crunch
• Simple seasonings that enhance without overpowering
It’s the ultimate all-in-one meal — warm, filling, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 (12.5 oz) can tuna, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen peas
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Preheat the Oven
• Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when the casserole is assembled. - Cook the Pasta
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook egg noodles until al dente (firm but tender) — about 6–7 minutes.
• Drain and set aside. - Make the Filling
• In a large bowl, combine drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, and frozen peas.
• Stir until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and evenly combined. - Add the Noodles
• Gently fold in the cooked noodles until everything is well-coated.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Prepare the Baking Dish
• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Pour the tuna mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. - Add the Topping
• In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter.
• Sprinkle the buttery crumbs evenly over the top of the casserole. - Bake to Perfection
• Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.
• Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving — this helps the casserole set perfectly.
Process Details
• Cooking the Noodles: Stop cooking as soon as they’re al dente — they’ll soften more while baking.
• Creamy Filling: Using cream of mushroom soup creates a smooth, rich sauce without needing extra steps.
• Cheesy Layer: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and balances the savory tuna flavor.
• Crispy Topping: Mixing breadcrumbs with butter gives you a golden, crunchy crust without drying out the casserole.
Tips for Success
- Drain the Tuna Well: Too much liquid makes the casserole soggy.
- Use Sharp Cheddar: It gives a bolder, richer flavor compared to mild cheese.
- Go for Extra Crunch: Broil the casserole for the last 1–2 minutes for a perfectly golden top.
- Make Ahead: Assemble everything, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.
Serving Ideas
- Weeknight Dinner: Pair with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.
- Potluck Favorite: This casserole travels well and reheats beautifully.
- Veggie Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots for more color and nutrition.
- Cheese Swap: Try mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor twist.
Nutrition Info (Approximate per Serving)
• Calories: ~380
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Sugar: 3g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
My Classic Tuna Casserole is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy — a dish that’s just as comforting as it is delicious. It’s quick to prepare, easy to bake, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or sharing it at a potluck, this casserole is guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. Once you try it, it’ll quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
