Name: Amazing Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces egg noodles; 2 (5 ounce) cans tuna in water, drained; 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup; 1/2 cup milk; 1 cup frozen peas (optional); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 1/2 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs (for topping, optional); Salt and black pepper to taste

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This classic tuna noodle casserole is a comforting, easy meal that combines tender egg noodles, flaky canned tuna, creamy soup, and gooey cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s quick to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.

Amazing Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s not only simple to make but also packed with flavor. The creamy, cheesy texture of the casserole with a crispy topping makes each bite feel like a warm hug. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, and the best part is, it all comes together in just one pan! It’s a go-to meal when I want something satisfying and nostalgic.

Ingredients

(Hear’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 ounces egg noodles
2 (5 ounce) cans tuna in water, drained
1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup
1/2 cup milk
1 cup frozen peas (optional)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs (for topping, optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

First, I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Then, I cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until they’re al dente, and drain them well.
In a large bowl, I combine the cooked egg noodles, drained tuna, cream of mushroom (or celery) soup, milk, and frozen peas (if I’m using them). I stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
Next, I stir in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
I pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
I sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. If I want a crispy topping, I add crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs on top.
I bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and heated through. If I added a topping, I let it bake until it’s golden brown.
Finally, I remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 servings and takes about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s the perfect meal to make ahead of time or for a family dinner.

Variations

If I want to make it even more hearty, I sometimes add sautéed mushrooms or diced celery.
For a bit more texture, I love using crunchy breadcrumbs for the topping instead of potato chips.
If I don’t have peas, I skip them or swap them out for corn or green beans for a different flavor.

Storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I simply microwave it or bake it in the oven at 350°F until it’s heated through again. If it looks a little dry, I add a splash of milk when reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! I sometimes prepare everything the night before, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it. Then, I bake it the next day.

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Definitely! If I use fresh tuna, I cook and flake it first before adding it to the casserole.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

I can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free noodles and ensuring that my cream of mushroom or celery soup is gluten-free.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. I let it cool completely, cover it tightly, and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, I thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake it until bubbly.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Of course! I often experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella.

Conclusion

This Amazing Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole is one of those timeless dishes that never fails to bring comfort and joy. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and crispy topping, it’s the ultimate one-pan meal that everyone will love. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, it’s a classic dish that’s always a hit!