Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tuna casserole is the ultimate comfort food, and for good reason! It’s rich, creamy, and satisfying, with a balance of flavors that make every bite irresistible. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it an affordable and easy-to-make dish, perfect for those days when you want something hearty without spending too much time in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile—add your favorite vegetables, cheese, or even a crispy topping to make it your own.

Ingredients

2 cans of tuna, drained and flaked
12 oz egg noodles or any pasta of choice
1 cup frozen peas
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste

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

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, tuna, frozen peas, cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, and milk. Stir until all ingredients are well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a small bowl, melt the butter and toss the breadcrumbs in the melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Vegetable Add-ins: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach to the casserole to boost its nutrition and flavor.
Cheese Options: Swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, parmesan, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different taste.
Tuna Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of tuna, you can easily substitute it with chicken, salmon, or another type of fish.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free while still keeping the same delicious flavors.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply place the casserole back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna for this recipe?

Yes, you can use fresh tuna, but be sure to cook it and flake it into pieces before adding it to the casserole.

2. Can I freeze tuna casserole?

Yes, tuna casserole can be frozen. To freeze, assemble the casserole as directed but skip the baking step. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

3. Can I make tuna casserole without mushrooms?

Yes, you can skip the cream of mushroom soup or replace it with another type of cream soup like cream of chicken or cream of celery.

4. How can I make tuna casserole creamier?

To make the casserole creamier, you can add more milk or a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture before baking.

5. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, shells, or rotini.

6. Is it necessary to use breadcrumbs?

Breadcrumbs add a crunchy topping, but you can omit them if you prefer a softer casserole. You could also use crushed crackers or potato chips for a different texture.

7. How do I make a dairy-free tuna casserole?

To make a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cheese, plant-based milk, and ensure your cream of mushroom soup is dairy-free as well.

8. Can I use fresh vegetables in this casserole?

Yes, fresh vegetables such as peas, carrots, or green beans can be used in place of frozen peas for a fresher taste.

9. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the fridge for 1-2 days. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

10. Can I add more cheese to the casserole?

Of course! Feel free to increase the amount of cheese to your liking for a more cheesy, gooey casserole.

Conclusion

Tuna casserole is a simple, delicious, and comforting dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With its rich flavors and easy-to-find ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Customize it to your liking with different vegetables, cheeses, or protein options, and enjoy a hearty meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or a smaller family, this casserole will hit the spot every time!

Tuna Casserole

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Tuna casserole is a quick and comforting dish perfect for busy nights, combining tender pasta, creamy sauce, and savory tuna. This simple, family-friendly recipe is easily customizable with veggies, cheeses, and even gluten-free options. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a dish that will feed a crowd, this tuna casserole hits all the right notes.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15min
Cook Time: 30min
Total Time: 45min
Yield: 8servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, tuna, frozen peas, cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, and milk. Stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a small bowl, melt butter and toss breadcrumbs in it. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Notes

To customize, add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
Swap cheddar cheese for mozzarella, parmesan, or any cheese you prefer.
You can replace tuna with chicken or other fish for a different flavor.
Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.