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Let’s talk about one of the most humble yet heartwarming dishes to ever grace the dinner table: the classic tuna casserole. Whether you’re craving a cozy throwback to childhood or just need a budget-friendly dinner idea that’s hearty and satisfying, this tuna casserole recipe is the real deal.

Loaded with creamy sauce, tender pasta, chunks of tuna, and a golden, crispy topping, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. It’s also incredibly versatile, easy to make ahead, freezer-friendly, and guaranteed to feed a hungry crowd without breaking the bank.

So if you’re looking for a no-fuss meal that’s packed with nostalgic flavor and modern ease, you’re going to love this one.

🧾 What Is Tuna Casserole, Really?

A tuna casserole is a baked pasta dish typically made with egg noodles, canned tuna, creamy mushroom or cheese sauce, and often peas or other veggies. It’s finished with a topping—usually breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or cheese—for that irresistible oven-baked crunch.

This recipe came to popularity in mid-20th century America and has stood the test of time for good reason: it’s comforting, easy, and made with pantry staples.

🍽️ Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Here’s a simple list of ingredients for a classic tuna casserole recipe that serves 6-8 people:

🧺 Main Ingredients:

• 12 oz egg noodles or any short pasta (elbow, rotini, penne)
• 2 cans (5 oz each) chunk light tuna, drained
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or make your own)
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional but delicious)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

🧀 Topping Options:

• ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• Extra cheese for a gooey top layer

👩‍🍳 How to Make Tuna Casserole – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Cook the egg noodles in salted water until just al dente—about 1-2 minutes shy of package instructions. Drain and set aside.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t overcook the pasta; it’ll keep cooking in the oven.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. Stir until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl (or the pasta pot), combine the cooked pasta, tuna, peas, and sauce. Mix well to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Transfer and Top

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle over the top of the casserole. Add more cheese if desired.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the casserole is bubbling at the edges.

🧡 Why We Love This Tuna Casserole Recipe

• ✅ Budget-friendly: Most ingredients are pantry staples.
• ✅ Kid-friendly: Creamy, cheesy, and mild in flavor.
• ✅ Freezer-friendly: Make a double batch and freeze one.
• ✅ Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, spices, or cheeses.
• ✅ Comfort food at its best: Warm, filling, and nostalgic.

🥦 Custom Variations to Try

Looking to spice things up or make it your own? Here are a few delicious variations of this classic tuna bake:

1. Healthier Tuna Casserole

Use whole wheat pasta, low-fat milk, and plain Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. Add extra veggies like broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach.

2. Tuna Casserole with Potato Chips

Top with crushed potato chips for a retro, salty crunch.

3. Spicy Tuna Casserole

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce.

4. Cheesy Tuna Mac

Substitute pasta shells and add extra cheese for a tuna mac and cheese casserole twist.

5. Tuna Casserole without Soup

Make a homemade béchamel or cheese sauce instead of using canned soup.

🥣 Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

Tuna casserole is a dream for meal preppers and busy weeknights.

Make-Ahead:

• Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance.
• Cover and refrigerate.
• Bake when ready, adding 5–10 extra minutes to the cooking time.

Freezing:

• Assemble without baking.
• Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

🍴 What to Serve with Tuna Casserole

Looking to round out your meal? Here are some easy sides that go perfectly with a hearty tuna noodle casserole:

• Crisp green salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed or roasted vegetables (like carrots, green beans, or broccoli)
• Warm garlic bread or dinner rolls
• A light fruit salad for a refreshing finish

🥰 Final Thoughts: Why Tuna Casserole Still Reigns Supreme

We know, it might not sound glamorous—but that’s part of the charm. The tuna casserole recipe is the ultimate in cozy, no-nonsense cooking. It’s one of those dishes that just feels like home.

You can dress it up or keep it old-school. Feed a family or just meal prep for the week. And with its creamy texture, savory tuna flavor, and crunchy topping, it never goes out of style.

Whether you’re cooking for comfort, nostalgia, or just convenience, this classic bake has your back.

So next time you’re wondering what to do with that can of tuna in your pantry…you know what to do. 💛