Tuna Noodle Casserole

Name: Tuna Noodle Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz egg noodles; 2 (5 oz) cans chunk light tuna, drained; 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 cup breadcrumbs

Published: October 8, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy-to-make tuna noodle casserole is a timeless classic that offers creamy comfort in each bite
The combination of flavors creates an irresistible dish that’s visually appealing
Perfect for family gatherings or quick weeknight dinners, you can customize it based on your pantry staples
The simple ingredients make it accessible for anyone to whip up effortlessly

I remember the first time I served this casserole to friends. They devoured it within minutes and asked for the recipe right after!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Tuna: Canned tuna works best; choose chunk light or albacore for creaminess without overpowering flavor.
Egg Noodles: Cooked until al dente; they hold onto the sauce beautifully while adding texture.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Use a condensed version for that rich, creamy base that binds everything together.
Cheddar Cheese: Grated sharp cheddar adds a nice kick, melting beautifully over the top.
Frozen Peas: These tiny green gems bring color and sweetness; feel free to substitute any veggies you love.
Onion Powder: A dash of this elevates flavors without overwhelming the dish; it’s like powdered magic!
Garlic Powder: A must-have for depth; add just enough to tantalize your taste buds without overpowering them.
Breadcrumbs: Top with these for an irresistible crispy finish; they provide texture against the creamy filling.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Start by boiling water in a large pot and adding egg noodles. Cook them according to package instructions until al dente—this ensures they won’t turn mushy in the oven.

Once drained, toss those noodles back into the pot. Add canned tuna (drained), cream of mushroom soup, grated cheddar cheese, frozen peas, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the mix. comforting chicken noodle soup Stir gently until all ingredients are well combined—your arms might get tired but remember: good things come to those who mix!

Transfer this glorious mixture into a greased baking dish. Now comes the fun part: sprinkle breadcrumbs generously over the top for that golden crust we all crave. Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese bubbles enticingly and turns golden brown—just try not to stare too long!

Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly. As you serve this masterpiece, watch as smiles spread across faces—comfort food at its finest!

This tuna noodle casserole will not only fill bellies but create cherished memories around your dining table—one scoop at a time!

You Must Know

Tuna noodle casserole is a classic comfort food that combines creamy textures with savory flavors
It’s perfect for busy weeknights, and you can easily make it your own with simple tweaks
The delightful aroma of baking cheese will have everyone gathering around the dinner table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta until al dente, then prepare your creamy sauce while it cooks. Combine everything in a baking dish and top with cheese before popping it in the oven for that bubbly finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the tuna for chicken or add veggies like peas or spinach. Experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor twist; cheddar and mozzarella work beautifully together. delicious shredded chicken tacos.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover tuna noodle casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To ensure your tuna noodle casserole shines, use high-quality canned tuna for better flavor
Don’t forget to drain the pasta well, as excess water can make the dish soupy
For extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking!

It’s always amusing when my family requests this dish. My cousin once claimed it was “the best thing since sliced bread,” which had me chuckling since I’m pretty sure he wasn’t talking about my famous casserole!

FAQ

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Absolutely! Freshly cooked tuna will elevate your casserole’s flavor and texture significantly.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for about three days without losing quality.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

You can use homemade white sauce or any cream-based soup to maintain that creamy consistency.

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📖 Recipe Card