Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy and budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples and comes together quickly.
Creamy and comforting: Rich sauce with tender noodles and tuna.
Crunchy topping: Adds a delightful texture contrast.
Family favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Make ahead: Can be prepared in advance and baked when ready.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Egg noodles
Canned tuna (drained)
Cream of mushroom soup (or homemade cream sauce)
Frozen peas or mixed vegetables
Milk
Cheddar cheese (shredded)
Onion (chopped)
Garlic (minced)
Bread crumbs or crushed crackers (for topping)
Butter
Salt and pepper

Directions

Cook noodles: Boil egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare sauce: In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until translucent. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper; heat until warmed through.
Combine ingredients: Add cooked noodles, drained tuna, peas, and half the shredded cheese to the sauce. Mix gently.
Assemble casserole: Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
Add topping: Mix bread crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese layer.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake casserole for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use different pasta: Rotini or macaroni work well too.
Add vegetables: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or corn.
Make it healthier: Use Greek yogurt or low-fat cream soup.
Gluten-free: Substitute with gluten-free pasta and topping.
Cheesy twist: Add Parmesan or mozzarella cheese.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Freezing: Freeze before baking for up to 1 month; thaw before baking.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tuna?

Canned tuna is best for texture and convenience.

Can I prepare casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking.

What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?

Make a homemade white sauce with butter, flour, and milk.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, increase veggies for extra nutrition.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s mild and creamy, popular with children.

How do I prevent soggy noodles?

Cook noodles al dente and drain well.

Can I use canned cream soups other than mushroom?

Yes, cream of celery or chicken are good alternatives.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free milk, cheese, and cream soup substitutes.

What can I use instead of bread crumbs?

Crushed crackers or cornflakes work well.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger baking dish and adjust cooking time.

Conclusion

Tuna Noodle Casserole is a timeless, comforting dish that’s easy to make and always satisfying. With creamy sauce, tender noodles, and flaky tuna, it’s a perfect meal for busy nights or when you crave a cozy, home-cooked favorite.