Tuna Noodle Casserole

This Tuna Noodle Casserole is a creamy baked pasta dish made with egg noodles, tuna, cheddar cheese, cream soups, and peas, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb and parmesan crust. It’s a classic comfort food recipe that comes together quickly using simple pantry staples.

Ingredients

Topping

• ⅓ cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
• ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp melted salted butter

Casserole

• 12 oz egg noodles
• 1½ cups milk
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 2 (5 oz) cans tuna, drained (preferably water-packed)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sour cream (or mayonnaise)
• ½ tsp dried parsley (plus more for garnish, optional)
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ⅛ tsp salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and melted butter until combined. Set aside.
3. Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
4. Add cooked noodles to the prepared baking dish.
5. Stir in milk, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, tuna, peas, cheddar cheese, sour cream (or mayonnaise), parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until evenly combined.
   • Alternatively, mix everything in a large bowl first, then transfer to the baking dish.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 15 minutes, until edges are bubbling.
8. Broil on high for about 1 minute until the top is golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning.
9. Remove from oven and garnish with extra parsley if desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, comforting casserole made with simple pantry ingredients
• Quick prep using canned soup and tuna
• Great for family dinners and meal prep
• Budget-friendly and filling

Tips

• Cook noodles just until al dente to avoid mushy texture
• Drain tuna well for the best consistency
• Keep a close eye when broiling the topping
• Let the casserole rest a few minutes before serving for cleaner slices

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap tuna for cooked chicken or canned salmon
• Use cream of celery soup instead of mushroom or chicken
• Add chopped celery or onions for extra crunch
• Replace peas with corn or mixed vegetables
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option

FAQs

Can I make tuna noodle casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months.

Do I have to use both soups?
No, you can use only one, but the flavor will be slightly less rich.

Serving

Serve warm with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Suggestions

• Add shredded cheese on top before baking for extra richness
• Sprinkle paprika or extra parmesan for added flavor
• Pair with pickles or a tangy side for contrast
• Serve in individual portions for easy meal prep containers