If you’re looking for a comforting meal that comes together without any fuss, this Quick and Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s a cozy, savory dish packed with tender noodles, flaky tuna, creamy mushroom soup, and vibrant peas all topped off with a crispy, cheesy crust. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious, satisfying, and just a little nostalgic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, everyday ingredients is all you need to whip up this delicious casserole. Each one plays an important role in balancing flavors and textures, making this recipe both hearty and delightful.
- 8 oz egg noodles: The foundation of the dish, tender and perfectly suited to soak up creamy sauce.
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained: Provides a mild, flaky protein that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Adds a velvety texture and rich umami flavor.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the sauce to a smooth consistency without overpowering.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Bursts of sweet, garden freshness and a lovely pop of green.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey goodness inside the casserole and some goes on top for that golden crust.
- 1/2 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs: Creates a satisfying crunchy topping that’s the perfect contrast to the creamy filling.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
How to Make Quick and Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Noodles
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures it’s ready to go once your casserole is assembled. Next, cook the egg noodles according to the package’s directions until they’re perfectly tender but still holding their shape. Drain them well so your casserole isn’t watery.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Tuna Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, frozen peas, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This mixture is where all the flavors begin to meld, so be sure to season generously with salt and pepper for the best taste.
Step 3: Combine Noodles and Tuna Mixture
Fold the cooked noodles into the creamy tuna mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated. This step is crucial because you want each bite to have a perfect balance of protein, veggies, and sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and transfer your noodle and tuna mixture into it, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top, then add the crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs for that irresistible crunchy finish.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Bake the casserole uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. Look for a bubbly filling and a golden, crispy topping that signals your casserole is ready. Allow it to cool slightly before serving to let everything settle beautifully.
How to Serve Quick and Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a bright burst of color and a mild herbal note that complements the creamy richness wonderfully.
Side Dishes
A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette works great as a side, balancing the creaminess with crisp, acidic bites. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots also bring texture and color to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins, topped with extra cheese and chips, then broiled just before serving to crisp the crust further. You can also add a sprinkle of paprika or smoked paprika to the topping for extra flavor and a beautiful, festive look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover tuna casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for quick lunches or reheated dinners during the week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble it fully, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until warmed through—about 15 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, but the oven method helps keep the topping crispy and appetizing.
FAQs
Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Absolutely! You can sauté fresh mushrooms with a little butter and add cream or milk to create a homemade sauce. Just keep in mind, this changes the prep a bit but adds wonderful freshness.
Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, swap the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free alternative and use a dairy-free creamy soup or homemade sauce with coconut or almond milk. It still works well and accommodating dietary preferences is easier than you think.
What can I substitute for potato chips if I don’t have any?
Breadcrumbs are a classic alternative, offering a crunchy topping. You might also try crushed cornflakes or even panko for extra crispness.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in diced carrots, chopped bell peppers, or corn to sneak in more veggies and add extra color and flavor.
How do I know when the casserole is cooked perfectly?
Once the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crisp, it’s done. The cheese should be melted fully, and the casserole will hold together nicely when served.
Final Thoughts
This Quick and Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe is genuinely one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s straightforward to prepare, wonderfully comforting, and a great way to turn pantry staples into something truly special. I hope you give it a try soon—you might just find it becoming one of your household favorites too!
Print
Quick and Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Quick and Easy Tuna Casserole is a comforting and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. With tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, creamy mushroom soup, and a crispy cheesy topping, this classic casserole comes together in just 40 minutes for a satisfying dish the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Noodles: Boil the egg noodles according to package instructions until tender. Drain them well and set aside.
- Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, frozen peas, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your taste. Stir well to incorporate all ingredients.
- Add Noodles: Gently fold the cooked egg noodles into the tuna mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top, followed by an even layer of crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping turns golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving to let flavors meld and to enjoy safely.
Notes
- You can substitute frozen peas with fresh or use other vegetables like corn or green beans.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free noodles and ensure the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free.
- To add extra flavor, try stirring in some sautéed onions or garlic into the mixture.
- Use crushed potato chips for a more flavorful and crunchier topping compared to breadcrumbs.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
