Introduction

Some meals just feel like home, and tuna casserole is one of them. This classic dish brings together tender noodles, creamy sauce, savory tuna, and a crispy topping for a comforting dinner that’s simple to make and always satisfying.

Best Classic Tuna Casserole Dinner Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

16 ounces wide egg noodles
1 cup frozen peas
10 ounces canned tuna, drained (2 small cans)
2 cans condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.5 ounces each)
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup panko bread crumbs
1 tablespoon butter, melted
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Drain and return them to the pot.
Step 2: Add the peas, tuna, condensed soup, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese to the noodles. Stir until everything is evenly combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Transfer the noodle mixture into a buttered 9×13-inch casserole dish, pressing it gently into an even layer.
Step 4: In a small bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole.
Step 5: Bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling and the topping is golden brown.

Tips & Variations

For a creamier, extra-moist casserole, add one additional can of condensed soup and ½ cup more milk before baking.
To bake from frozen: Cover and cook for 45–60 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until heated through and the topping is browned.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen before baking; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of noodle?

Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other sturdy pasta like rotini or penne, but wide egg noodles are preferred for their texture and ability to hold the sauce.

How can I make this casserole dairy-free?

Try using dairy-free cream of mushroom soup, plant-based milk, and a dairy-free cheese substitute. The flavor and creaminess will be slightly different but still delicious.

Best Classic Tuna Casserole Dinner Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 146 reviews

This classic tuna casserole is a warm, comforting dish perfect for busy evenings. Featuring tender egg noodles, creamy mushroom sauce, flaky tuna, sweet peas, and a crispy panko topping, it’s an easy-to-make, satisfying meal that feels like home with every bite.

Author: Marco
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

For the Tuna Casserole

16 ounces wide egg noodles
1 cup frozen peas
10 ounces canned tuna, drained (2 small cans)
2 cans condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.5 ounces each)
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Crispy Topping

½ cup panko bread crumbs
1 tablespoon butter, melted

Instructions

Cook the Noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until tender. Drain well and return them to the pot to prepare for mixing.
Mix Ingredients: Add frozen peas, drained canned tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese to the noodles. Stir everything until evenly combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Butter a 9×13-inch casserole dish and transfer the noodle mixture into it. Press gently to create an even layer.
Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs with melted butter, mixing well. Sprinkle the buttery panko evenly over the casserole surface.
Bake: Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling and the topping is golden brown.

Notes

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and may vary depending on specific brands used.
To bake from frozen: Cover and cook for 45–60 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until heated through and the topping is browned.
For a creamier, extra-moist casserole, add one additional can of condensed soup and ½ cup more milk before baking.

Keywords: classic tuna casserole, creamy tuna casserole, easy tuna casserole, comfort food, baked casserole, tuna noodle casserole