If you’re on the hunt for a dinner that checks all the boxes—creamy, comforting, quick, and seriously delicious—look no further than Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole. This dish is a beloved classic in my home, effortlessly bringing together tender noodles, savory tuna, and gooey cheese under a golden, buttery topping. It’s the sort of meal you can whip up on a busy weeknight or serve to a crowd, all while keeping it simple, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to get rave reviews.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole lies in its humble, accessible ingredients that come together to create something truly crave-worthy. Each element has its own special role, whether it’s bringing creaminess, richness, or a bit of crunch to every bite.
- Egg noodles (8 oz, cooked and drained): These wide, chewy noodles are the perfect base, soaking up all the creamy sauce and holding the casserole together.
- Tuna in water (2 cans, 5 oz each, drained): Opt for a good-quality canned tuna for the best flavor and texture; it adds lean protein and savory depth.
- Cream of mushroom soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): This classic shortcut is the cornerstone of creaminess and brings a subtle earthy richness to the sauce.
- Milk (½ cup): Helps thin out the soup just enough for a silky, pourable sauce that coats every noodle.
- Frozen peas (1 cup): These pop-in-your-mouth veggies add a touch of sweetness and bright color, lifting the whole casserole.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melty cheddar gives the casserole its signature gooey texture and irresistible cheesy flavor.
- Garlic powder (½ tsp): Just a pinch infuses the dish with subtle savory notes.
- Onion powder (½ tsp): Adds that familiar sweet, oniony flavor without the need to chop anything.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Season boldly, because a well-seasoned sauce makes all the difference.
- Crushed buttery crackers or potato chips (1 cup, for topping): This is where the craveable crunch comes in—go for whichever option you love most.
- Melted butter (2 tbsp): Mixing this with the topping creates that perfectly golden, crispy finish everyone fights over!
How to Make Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Give your 9×13-inch baking dish a light coating of nonstick spray or a swipe of butter—this makes serving (and clean-up) so much easier!
Step 2: Mix Up the Creamy Base
In a nice big bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, peas, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, plus a good pinch each of salt and pepper. Stir everything until it looks well mixed and wonderfully creamy. Don’t be afraid to get in there—an even mix ensures every bite is loaded with flavor.
Step 3: Spread and Smooth
Pour your casserole mixture into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to gently spread it out into an even layer. Take a moment to appreciate those pops of green and hints of cheese peeking through!
Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, toss your crushed buttery crackers or potato chips with the melted butter until the pieces are evenly coated and irresistible. Sprinkle this mixture generously over your casserole, making sure you reach every corner for maximum crunch.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the topping is golden and crisp and the casserole is bubbly at the edges. Let it rest for about five minutes after pulling it out of the oven—this makes serving a breeze and helps the flavors settle together.
How to Serve Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Garnishes
Brighten each plate of Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, a scattering of sliced green onions, or even a dash of smoked paprika. Not only does it add a fresh pop of color, but these finishing touches really make the flavors come alive.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette makes the perfect partner for the creamy casserole, refreshing your palate between bites. For something heartier, try roasted broccoli, buttery peas, or some classic garlic bread for extra crunch!
Creative Ways to Present
For weeknights, pile the casserole straight from the dish onto plates for unfussy comfort. Entertaining? Portion into individual ramekins for a special touch, or serve family-style as part of a cozy casserole buffet. You can even scoop leftovers into a thermos for a warm, savory lunch on the go—school or work will be so much brighter!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow any leftover Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole to cool completely, then cover the baking dish snugly with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—making it perfect for easy lunches or low-effort dinners during the week.
Freezing
This casserole is a true freezer hero! Assemble everything except the topping, wrap tightly in plastic and then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight, top with the crunchy mixture, and bake as directed for fresh-from-the-oven goodness.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole and bake at 350°F until hot throughout—this retains moisture and keeps the noodles from drying out. For single servings, a quick zap in the microwave does the trick. If you want to restore the original crunch, pop the casserole under the broiler for a minute or two before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While egg noodles bring that classic texture, you can use penne, rotini, or any short pasta you have on hand. Just be sure to cook it al dente so it holds up during baking.
Is there a good substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
Yes! Swap in cream of celery soup for an equally creamy result, or use a homemade white sauce if you want to skip canned soups altogether.
Can I add extra vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely—feel free to mix in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra color and nutrition. Just be sure to cook off excess moisture before adding them to avoid a watery casserole.
What’s the best way to make Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole gluten-free?
Use your favorite gluten-free noodles and swap in gluten-free crackers or chips for the topping. Also, double-check if your soup is gluten-free—many brands offer suitable versions.
Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes, assemble the casserole (without the topping), cover, and refrigerate for a day in advance. Add the buttery topping just before baking to keep it crisp and fresh.
Final Thoughts
If you love easy, satisfying comfort food that feels like a warm hug, Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is truly the answer. I hope you get as much joy out of making (and eating!) this timeless dish as I always do—give it a try, and let it earn a place in your own comfort food hall of fame!
Print
Easy Tuna Noodle 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
A classic and easy-to-make tuna noodle casserole that’s perfect for a comforting family dinner. Creamy and flavorful, this budget-friendly dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
Main Casserole:
- 8 oz egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or potato chips
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Casserole: In a large bowl, mix the cooked egg noodles, tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, peas, cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Spread the mixture in the baking dish.
- Make the Topping: Toss crushed crackers or chips with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Enhance with sautéed onions or mushrooms.
- Substitute canned or rotisserie chicken for variety.
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