Looking for the perfect way to make Tuna Noodle Casserole? This step-by-step guide will help you create a budget-friendly, creamy, and delicious meal effortlessly! This classic casserole is packed with tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, a creamy mushroom sauce, and a crunchy, cheesy topping that brings it all together. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is quick, easy, and customizable with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry!
Why You’ll Love This Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe?
- Budget-Friendly – Uses pantry staples for a cost-effective meal.
- Quick & Easy – Simple steps, minimal prep, and ready in under an hour.
- Creamy & Comforting – Rich flavors and textures make it a crowd-pleaser.
- Customizable – Swap ingredients to suit your dietary preferences.
Ingredients List
🧑🍳 For the Casserole:
🍜 8 oz wide egg noodles (or substitute with rotini/elbow macaroni)
🐟 2 cans of tuna, drained
🧀 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
🌿 1/2 cup frozen peas (unthawed)
🥄 1 can cream of mushroom soup
🥛 1/2 cup milk
🧅 1 small onion, diced
🌿 1 celery stalk, diced
🧂 Salt & black pepper to taste
🧄 1/2 tsp garlic powder
🔥 For the Topping:
🥖 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
🧀 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
🌿 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
🧈 2 tbsp melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine panko bread crumbs, cheddar cheese, parsley, and melted butter. Stir well and set aside.
2. Cook the Noodles
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
3. Sauté Vegetables
Melt 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and celery, sautéing for about 5 minutes until tender.
4. Mix the Casserole Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Tuna
- Cooked onions & celery
- Frozen peas
- Shredded cheese
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Milk
- Cooked noodles
- Salt, black pepper & garlic powder Mix well and taste to adjust seasoning.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish. Pour the tuna noodle mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
6. Add the Topping & Bake
Sprinkle the cheddar bread crumb mixture evenly over the casserole. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve & Enjoy!
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes, then serve warm. Enjoy your creamy, crunchy Tuna Noodle Casserole!
🔗 Learn more about cooking with tuna Visit Every single canned tuna recipe you could possibly need
Pro Tips & Variations
💡 Expert Tips:
- For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
- To add more flavor, mix 1 tsp Dijon mustard into the filling.
✨ Ingredient Swaps:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute with vegan cheese & dairy-free milk.
- Veggies: Swap peas for broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
🔗 More easy meal ideas: visit our Air Fryer Recipes
FAQ
Q: Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna? A: Yes! Cook fresh tuna and flake it before mixing it into the casserole.
Q: How do I make this recipe without cream of mushroom soup? A: Substitute with 1 cup of homemade white sauce (butter, flour, and milk mixture).
Q: What’s the best cheese for this recipe? A: Cheddar is classic, but Swiss, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack also work great!
