Easy Tuna Casserole
There’s something so comforting about a tuna casserole—it’s like a warm hug in a dish. This Easy Tuna Casserole takes all the nostalgic flavors you grew up with and gives them a little glow-up. We’re talking tender egg noodles, creamy sauce, chunks of tuna, veggies for freshness, and a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping that makes every bite irresistible. It’s cozy, satisfying, and unbelievably simple to put together. Trust me, this one’s going to become a family favorite you’ll come back to again and again.
Recipe Origin
Tuna casserole has been a classic American comfort food since the mid-20th century. Originally a budget-friendly, pantry-based meal, it’s been reinvented countless times. This version holds on to that nostalgic, easy-going vibe but makes it fresh with touches like panko crumbs for extra crunch, fresh parsley for brightness, and plenty of cheesy goodness. It’s a dish that feels both familiar and updated—a true weeknight hero.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need:
- Large pot (for boiling noodles)
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish (9×13 recommended)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Easy Tuna Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This easy tuna casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish made with egg noodles, tuna, peas, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. A budget-friendly family favorite perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 3 cups egg noodles, measured dry (approx. 6 ounces)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 2/3 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 (5-ounce) can tuna, drained
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, sautéed vegetables, peas, tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, and parsley. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, cheddar cheese, and parsley. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, add 1/4 cup sour cream to the filling.
- Use canned chicken as a substitute for tuna if preferred.
- Frozen mixed vegetables can be used instead of just peas.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: easy tuna casserole, tuna noodle bake, creamy casserole, budget friendly dinner, family comfort food
Why You’ll Love Easy Tuna Casserole
Comfort Food Vibes: Creamy, cheesy, and hearty—the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out.
Weeknight-Friendly: With simple prep and common ingredients, this casserole comes together quickly, even on busy evenings.
Kid-Approved: The mild flavors and cheesy topping make it a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples like tuna, canned soup, and noodles, proving you can eat well without overspending.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you just want guaranteed happy plates all around.
Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results:
- Cook noodles until just al dente, since they’ll keep cooking in the oven.
- Drain the tuna well so your casserole isn’t watery.
- For maximum crunch, sprinkle the breadcrumb topping on just before baking.
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking so it sets nicely before serving.
Ingredients in Easy Tuna Casserole
Egg Noodles: The base of the casserole—soft, tender, and perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
Butter: Used to sauté the onions and celery, adding richness and flavor.
Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the casserole.
Celery: Brings freshness and a little crunch to balance the creaminess.
Frozen Peas: A classic veggie addition for color, sweetness, and a pop of nutrition.
Tuna: The star protein of the dish—flaky, mild, and hearty. Canned tuna makes this convenient and affordable.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Creates the creamy, savory base with minimal effort.
Milk: Helps loosen the sauce, making it silky smooth.
Cheddar Cheese: Because what’s a casserole without cheesy goodness?
Parsley: Fresh or dried, it brightens the dish with an herby touch.
Panko Breadcrumbs: For that irresistible crunchy topping.
Melted Butter (for topping): Ensures the crumbs turn perfectly golden and crisp.
Extra Cheddar Cheese (for topping): Because more cheese is always a good idea.
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook Noodles: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook egg noodles until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Veggies: In a skillet, melt butter and sauté onions and celery until softened and fragrant.
Mix Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked noodles, sautéed veggies, tuna, peas, cream of mushroom soup, milk, shredded cheddar, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish and spread the mixture evenly inside.
Make Topping: In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, shredded cheddar, and parsley.
Top and Bake: Sprinkle topping evenly over the casserole. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Rest and Serve: Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Dig in and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: ~320–360 (varies based on cheese and topping amounts)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
How to Serve Easy Tuna Casserole
Fresh Salads: A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make colorful, healthy pairings.
Standalone Meal: It’s hearty enough to serve all by itself.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add topping just before baking.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze fully baked casserole (cooled) or unbaked mixture (without topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge before reheating or baking.
Variations to Try:
- Different Protein: Swap tuna for canned salmon or cooked chicken.
- Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Cheese Swap: Try mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for a flavor twist.
- Creamy Upgrade: Use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a new flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
Additional Tips
- Use chunk light tuna for a milder flavor, or albacore for a heartier bite.
- Don’t skip the rest time after baking—it makes serving easier and neater.
- Double the recipe if you’re serving a crowd—this one disappears fast!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use whole wheat noodles?
A1: Yes, they’ll add a nuttier flavor and extra fiber.
Q2: Can I make this without canned soup?
A2: Definitely! Substitute with a homemade white sauce or mushroom sauce.
Q3: What kind of tuna works best?
A3: Both chunk light and albacore work well—choose based on flavor preference.
Q4: How do I reheat leftovers?
A4: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Q5: Can I prepare this casserole gluten-free?
A5: Yes! Use gluten-free noodles and certified gluten-free panko.
Q6: Can I add more veggies?
A6: Absolutely—spinach, corn, or carrots work great.
Q7: Can I freeze individual portions?
A7: Yes, portion into freezer-safe containers for easy grab-and-go meals.
Q8: How long does it last in the fridge?
A8: About 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Q9: Can I make this dairy-free?
A9: Yes, use dairy-free cheese, plant-based milk, and a dairy-free cream soup substitute.
Q10: Is this casserole kid-friendly?
A10: Definitely! The mild, cheesy flavor makes it popular with little ones.
Conclusion
Easy Tuna Casserole is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple pantry ingredients, a creamy sauce, and that irresistible golden topping, this dish is both nostalgic and timeless. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or potluck gatherings where you want something hearty and satisfying. Next time you’re looking for a meal that checks all the boxes—easy, affordable, and delicious—this casserole’s got your back.
