This classic tuna casserole offers the ultimate comfort food for any busy weeknight meal. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, combining pantry staples into a warm, cheesy, and satisfying meal. You will love how quickly this wholesome dish comes together, perfect for a no-fuss family dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Tuna Casserole
This beloved tuna casserole recipe brings back nostalgic flavors and offers pure comfort in every bite. It’s incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal prep and effort. You can also customize this budget-friendly dish with ingredients you already have on hand. It truly is a family favorite that everyone will adore.
- Nostalgic Comfort: Enjoy a taste of childhood with this timeless classic.
- Quick Prep: Get dinner on the table in under 40 minutes, ideal for busy evenings.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses common pantry ingredients without breaking the bank.
- Versatile Meal: Easily adapt the recipe with different vegetables or toppings.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Ingredients
This simple tuna casserole recipe uses everyday ingredients you probably have at home. Gather these items to create a delicious and comforting meal.
For the Casserole Filling:
- 3 cups egg noodles (measured dry, approximately 6 ounces)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- ⅔ cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 (5 ounce) can tuna, drained
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ⅓ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
For the Crumb Topping:
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Notes & Substitutions
Always use canned tuna packed in water or oil, ensuring you drain it well to prevent a watery casserole. Feel free to substitute egg noodles with elbow macaroni, rotini, or even penne. If you do not have cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery or cream of chicken soup work beautifully in this recipe. Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend for varying flavors.
Equipment
You only need a few basic kitchen tools to make this delightful tuna noodle casserole.
- 2-quart baking dish: Essential for baking the casserole.
- Large pot: For cooking the egg noodles.
- Large skillet: For sautéing vegetables.
- Large mixing bowl: To combine all the casserole ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient amounts.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a perfect tuna casserole. This beginner-friendly guide ensures a delicious result every time.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Topping: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a small bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, 1 tablespoon melted butter, and ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined and set aside. This will create a delicious, crispy topping for your tuna noodle bake.
- Cook Egg Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 3 cups of egg noodles and cook according to package directions until they are al dente. This means they should still have a slight bite to them. Immediately drain the noodles in a colander and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced small onion and diced celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and become tender. This step adds depth of flavor to your creamy tuna casserole.
- Combine Casserole Ingredients: Transfer the cooked egg noodles and sautéed onion and celery mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the thawed frozen peas, drained canned tuna, 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup, ⅓ cup milk, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley). Gently mix all the ingredients together until everything is evenly combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease your 2-quart baking dish. Pour the entire tuna casserole mixture into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Ensure the mixture is distributed from edge to edge.
- Sprinkle Crumb Topping: Evenly sprinkle the reserved crumb topping mixture over the top of the casserole. Make sure to cover the entire surface for that perfect golden crunch.
- Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly around the edges, and the crumb topping has turned a beautiful golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Cook noodles just to al dente (firm to the bite). Overcooked noodles become mushy in the casserole. Taste the mixture before baking and adjust seasonings; a little extra salt and pepper can make a big difference. To prevent a watery casserole, always drain the tuna very thoroughly and avoid overcooking the vegetables. For an extra golden and crispy topping, you can lightly broil the casserole for the last minute or two, watching it carefully to prevent burning. Do not overbake the casserole; this can make the noodles and sauce dry out, affecting the creamy texture.
Serving, Storage, & Variations
Serve this comforting tuna casserole alongside a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or warm biscuits. These pairings create a complete and satisfying meal.
Storage and Reheating:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For comprehensive guidelines on safely reheating cooked meals, the USDA offers expert advice.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warm, or warm larger amounts in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Freezing:
- Baked: Cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.
- Unbaked: Assemble everything except the topping. Cover tightly and freeze. Thaw, add topping, and bake as directed.
Variations
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli florets, diced bell peppers, or sliced mushrooms with the peas.
- Topping Alternatives: Replace panko with crushed potato chips, buttery crackers, or fried onions for a different crunch.
- Cheesy Goodness: Add a layer of provolone or mozzarella cheese under the crumb topping for extra meltiness. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top is also excellent.
Nutrition Information
For a detailed breakdown of its nutritional profile of canned tuna, the USDA provides comprehensive data. This estimated nutrition information for one serving of tuna casserole provides a general overview. Actual values may vary based on specific brands and exact preparation.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350-400 kcal |
| Total Fat | 15-20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8-10 g |
| Cholesterol | 40-50 mg |
| Sodium | 700-800 mg |
| Total Carbs | 30-35 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2-3 g |
| Total Sugars | 3-5 g |
| Protein | 20-25 g |
FAQ
What kind of tuna is best?
Use canned tuna packed in water for a lighter option, or in oil for richer flavor. Always ensure it is well-drained.
Can I prepare tuna casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole (without the crumb topping) up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the fridge, then add the topping and bake before serving.
What other noodles can I use?
Elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne pasta are great alternatives to egg noodles. Adjust cooking times according to package directions for an al dente finish.
How do I fix a bland casserole?
Taste and adjust seasonings! Adding more salt, black pepper, a pinch of garlic powder, or a dash of hot sauce can enhance the flavor of your tuna casserole.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup, plant-based milk, and dairy-free shredded cheese. The butter can be swapped for a vegan butter alternative.
Conclusion
This classic and creamy tuna casserole is the ultimate testament to simple, comforting home cooking. Its ease of preparation and use of readily available ingredients make it a perfect choice for busy parents and beginners alike. We hope this step-by-step guide helps you create a delicious, family-favorite meal. Enjoy the warmth and nostalgia of this timeless tuna casserole dish tonight!