Introduction

Tuna casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make classic that combines creamy mushroom soup, tender noodles, and flaky tuna. This recipe adds a crispy cheesy topping for extra flavor and texture, making it a perfect weeknight dinner for the whole family.

Best Tuna Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

6 ounces egg noodles, cooked
1 cup frozen peas
10 ounces tuna, drained (two 5-ounce cans)
10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup
½ cup whole milk
1½ cups shredded mild cheddar cheese, divided (1¼ cups and ¼ cup)
½ teaspoon celery salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish, if desired)
¼ cup bread crumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, frozen peas, drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, 1¼ cups shredded cheddar cheese, celery salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix well.
Step 3: Transfer the tuna mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
Step 4: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Step 5: While the casserole bakes, stir together the bread crumbs and melted butter in a small bowl.
Step 6: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the bread crumb mixture on top, then add the remaining ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 7: Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes until the bread crumbs are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Step 8: Let the casserole cool slightly, garnish with extra parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a creamier casserole, add a splash more milk or a dollop of sour cream to the mixture before baking.
Swap out peas for other frozen vegetables like corn or green beans for a different flavor.
Use seasoned bread crumbs or add a pinch of garlic powder to the topping for extra seasoning.
For a lower-carb version, substitute egg noodles with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The casserole can also be frozen before baking—assemble and freeze, then bake from frozen, adding extra baking time.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, mild cheddar works well, but you can substitute with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses to suit your taste.

Is it better to use fresh or canned tuna?

Canned tuna is most convenient and works perfectly in this recipe. If using fresh tuna, cook and flake it before mixing it into the casserole.

Best Tuna Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 86 reviews

This classic Best Tuna Casserole features tender egg noodles mixed with tuna, peas, creamy mushroom soup, and cheddar cheese, baked to bubbly perfection and topped with a crispy buttery breadcrumb crust. It’s a comforting and easy one-dish meal that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Author: Cleo
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

6 ounces egg noodles, cooked
1 cup frozen peas
10 ounces tuna, drained (two 5-ounce cans)
10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup
½ cup whole milk
1½ cups shredded mild cheddar cheese, divided (1¼ cups and ¼ cup)
½ teaspoon celery salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish if desired)

Topping

¼ cup bread crumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Prepare Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, frozen peas, drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, 1¼ cups of shredded mild cheddar cheese, celery salt, pepper, and chopped fresh parsley. Stir well to evenly incorporate all ingredients.
Assemble Casserole: Transfer the tuna noodle mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly.
Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling.
Prepare Topping: While the casserole is baking, mix together the bread crumbs and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Add Topping: Remove the casserole from the oven after 20 minutes, sprinkle the buttery bread crumbs evenly over the top, and add the remaining ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake Uncovered: Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the bread crumbs are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Serve: Once done, remove from oven, garnish with extra fresh parsley if desired, and serve the casserole warm for a comforting meal.

Notes

For a crispier topping, you can broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes after adding the breadcrumbs and cheese—watch closely to avoid burning.
Feel free to substitute whole milk with 2% or evaporated milk for a creamier texture.
Fresh parsley adds brightness, but you can use dried parsley if fresh is unavailable (use about 1 teaspoon dried).
This recipe can be made ahead and stored in the fridge; bake just before serving.
Leftovers store well for 2-3 days in the refrigerator and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: tuna casserole, egg noodles, tuna noodle bake, creamy tuna casserole, easy family dinner, baked casserole