Classic Comfort Tuna Noodle Casserole (Easy, Creamy & Nostalgic)

There’s something deeply comforting about a bubbling dish of tuna noodle casserole emerging from the oven, its golden top crackling slightly as it cools. This classic recipe has been passed down through generations for a reason: it’s affordable, filling, and delivers pure nostalgic comfort in every bite. Whether you grew up eating tuna noodle casserole on busy weeknights or you’re discovering it for the first time, this version balances creamy richness with simple pantry staples for a dish that never goes out of style.

Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~420 per serving

Ingredients

• 12 oz egg noodles
• 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook egg noodles in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
3. In a large bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Fold in cooked noodles, tuna, peas, onion, and half of the shredded cheese.
5. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
6. Combine melted butter with crushed crackers and sprinkle over the casserole.
7. Top with remaining cheese and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
8. Rest 5 minutes before serving.

Substitutions & Dietary Swaps

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and crackers.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free cheese and cream soup alternatives.
• No Canned Soup: Make a quick roux with butter, flour, and milk.
• Protein Swap: Try canned salmon or shredded rotisserie chicken.

Chef’s Pro Tips

• Undercook noodles slightly to prevent mushiness.
• Add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the tuna flavor.
• For extra crunch, mix Parmesan into the topping.

Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating

Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Store leftovers covered for up to 4 days. Reheat at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual portions.

Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes

• Too Dry: Add 1/4 cup extra milk before baking.
• Too Bland: Season aggressively tuna needs salt.
• Soggy Topping: Bake uncovered for best texture.

Flavor Pairings & Serving Suggestions

Serve tuna noodle casserole with a Thai Chickpea Salad or steamed broccoli.

Classic Comfort Tuna Noodle Casserole

This classic tuna noodle casserole is creamy, cozy, and weeknight-easy—tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, peas, and a golden crunchy topping baked until bubbly.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Casserole, Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Casserole Base

• 12 oz egg noodles
• 2 cans tuna in water 5 oz each, drained
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup 10.5 oz
• 1 cup milk whole milk preferred
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded, divided
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup onion finely diced
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• salt to taste
• black pepper to taste

Crunchy Topping

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
• 1 cup butter crackers crushed (or use breadcrumbs)

Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Large Pot
• Mixing bowl

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the egg noodles in salted water until al dente according to the package directions. Drain well.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
4. Fold in the cooked noodles, drained tuna, peas, diced onion, and half of the shredded cheddar.
5. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
6. Stir the melted butter into the crushed crackers, then sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole. Add the remaining cheddar on top.
7. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden. Rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra creaminess, add 1/4 cup sour cream to the sauce. For extra crunch, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end (watch closely). Swap peas for corn or sautéed mushrooms if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze tuna noodle casserole?

Yes, freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before cooking.

What’s the best tuna to use?

Solid white albacore tuna offers the best texture and flavor.

Can I make this without peas?

Absolutely! try corn or sautéed mushrooms instead.

How do I make it creamier?

Add 1/4 cup sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce.

Is tuna noodle casserole healthy?

It can be balanced tuna provides lean protein and omega-3s. Learn more at FDA.gov.

Final Thoughts

This tuna noodle casserole is a timeless comfort dish that proves simple ingredients can still deliver big flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal-prepping, or craving a cozy classic, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. Try it once, and you’ll see why it’s been loved for decades.