Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a comforting, budget-friendly classic made with pantry staples. This creamy, cheesy dish combines tender egg noodles, canned tuna, and a rich sauce, often topped with crispy breadcrumbs or crackers. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, offering warmth and flavor in every bite with minimal effort.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

egg noodlescanned tunacream of mushroom soupmilkfrozen peasmayonnaiseonion powdergarlic powdershredded cheddar cheesecrushed crackers or breadcrumbsbuttersalt and pepper

directions

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

Cook egg noodles according to package directions, then drain and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, mayonnaise, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Stir in the drained tuna, frozen peas, cooked noodles, and half of the shredded cheese.

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Top with the remaining cheese and a generous layer of crushed crackers or breadcrumbs.

Drizzle melted butter over the topping for a golden finish.

Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 25-30 minutesTotal time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Swap cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or chicken for a different flavor.

Use a mix of frozen vegetables instead of just peas.

Add a dash of hot sauce or mustard for a kick.

Try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.

Top with French fried onions for extra crunch.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.To freeze, cover tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Yes, cooked and flaked fresh tuna works well too.

What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?

You can make a homemade white sauce or use another cream soup variety.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free noodles, soup, and a topping substitute.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese and a non-dairy soup or white sauce alternative.

Can I use a different type of noodle?

Yes, any medium pasta like rotini or shells works well.

Why is my casserole dry?

Ensure enough liquid and don’t overbake it—cover with foil if needed.

Can I add more protein?

Yes, mix in cooked chicken or use more tuna.

What side dishes pair well with it?

A green salad or steamed vegetables make great accompaniments.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, use a larger baking dish and adjust bake time as needed.

Conclusion

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a dependable and delicious dinner option that comes together quickly and satisfies everyone at the table. Its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and customizable nature make it a timeless favorite that’s both easy to prepare and comforting to eat.